As someone running a company specializing in turf installation – we’re of course biased towards turf. Especially for the front yards of homes in areas where the weather can be unpredictable.
But what’s really, objectively better?
When it comes to choosing between natural grass and artificial turf for home lawns, playgrounds, and pet areas, homeowners are faced with several factors to consider.
Each option offers distinct benefits, but for durability, ease of maintenance, and long-term cost-effectiveness, artificial turf often emerges as the superior choice.
Here, we explore the reasons why turf might be the better option for your home, especially if you have kids and pets.
Maintenance and Upkeep:
Natural grass requires regular mowing, watering, weeding, and fertilizing to maintain its lush, green appearance. This not only consumes a considerable amount of time but also increases water bills and the use of chemicals.
This is especially true for our Sarasota location, since Florida lawns are notoriously high maintenance.
On the other hand, artificial turf requires minimal maintenance. Occasional rinsing to remove dirt and debris, along with brushing to keep the blades standing up, are typically all that’s needed.
This low maintenance requirement makes turf a practical choice for busy homeowners.
Turf Pros:
- Minimal maintenance required; no mowing or watering.
- Stays green without the need for fertilizers or pesticides.
Turf Cons:
- Can heat up more than natural grass in direct sunlight.
- May require occasional refilling of infill and brushing to keep fibers upright.
Durability and Longevity:
Artificial turf is highly durable and can withstand heavy use without suffering wear and tear. This makes it ideal for high-traffic areas such as play areas for children or pet zones.
In contrast, natural grass can quickly become patchy and worn in similar conditions.
Simply put, our customers like turf because it’s designed to last for up to 15-20 years, making it an excellent long-term investment.
Turf Pros:
- Highly durable and maintains appearance despite heavy use.
- Long lifespan, making it a good investment for high-traffic areas.
Turf Cons:
- Eventually it needs to be replaced after its lifespan is over.
- Can deteriorate if not installed correctly or made from inferior materials.
Allergen Reduction:
Natural grass is a common allergen source that can trigger allergic reactions in both children and adults. This can make enjoying outdoor spaces difficult for those affected.
Artificial turf, on the other hand, does not produce pollen or harbor as many allergens, which can help reduce allergic reactions and contribute to a more comfortable outdoor environment.
This comes in handy and is a top reason why homeowners use our Louisville turf installation instead of natural grass – many homeowners are allergic and choose to opt for the safer option.
Turf Pros:
- Does not produce pollen, reducing common allergens in the area.
- Beneficial for allergy sufferers who want to enjoy outdoor spaces.
Turf Cons:
- Some people may be sensitive to the materials used in artificial turf.
- Potential off-gassing from new materials can irritate sensitive individuals.
Safe For Children and Pets:
For families with children and pets, safety is a crucial consideration. Modern artificial turf systems are engineered to provide a soft and non-abrasive surface.
They often include padded underlayers that can prevent injuries from falls, making them safer for children at play. Furthermore, turf remains even and predictable, reducing the risk of tripping hazards that can occur with uneven natural grass surfaces.
We all hear stories about kids being bitten by rattlesnakes or being covered in ticks coming home while playing in the yard. And while artificial turf doesn’t stop wildlife from entering your space, it certainly is a preventative.
Dogs can also benefit from turf that’s safe for them. A big misconception is that artificial grass is harmful to animals. Many times, dogs actually prefer it since the grass always remains the same and doesn’t get too long.
We wrote a page specifically about our pet turf if you’d like to learn more.
Artificial turf provides a sturdy, mud-free surface that encourages outdoor play, even after rain. This is not often feasible with natural grass, which can become muddy and unsuitable for use in wet conditions.
Turf Pros:
- Provides a consistent playing surface that is usable under almost all weather conditions.
- Excellent for high-traffic play areas, as it does not degrade from overuse.
Turf Cons:
- The surface can become hot to the touch in direct sunlight, possibly leading to discomfort or burns.
- Some types of infill used in turf (like crumb rubber) have raised health concerns, although alternatives are available.
Cost-Effectiveness Over Time:
As a general rule of thumb, our customers expect to pay between $2 and $20 per square foot for artificial turf installation with the average cost being $12.5 per square foot.
Although the initial cost of installing artificial turf can be higher than seeding or sodding with natural grass, the long-term savings are significant.
By eliminating the need for water, fertilizers, pesticides, and regular lawn care services, turf can save homeowners money over time.
According to a cost analysis, homeowners can recoup the initial cost of turf through maintenance savings within several years.
Turf Pros:
- Although the initial cost is higher, long-term savings on maintenance are significant.
- Eliminates ongoing costs associated with watering, mowing, and chemical treatments.
Turf Cons:
- High upfront cost of installation depending on size of space.
- Eventually, it will need to be replaced, since nothing lasts forever.
The answer is clear: artificial turf wins.
While this has always been a debate, particularly in the sporting world, artificial turf has increasingly been the favorite for homeowners looking to save on the money and time required to maintain a perfect lawn year round.
Since by making this investment, they’re able to relax and never worry about lawn maintenance ever again – all while looking out at the same beautiful grass everyday.
If you’re in the Louisville or Sarasota area and are looking to install artificial turf for your home – give us a call at (502)-677-4548!