As a turf installation company with 5 national locations, one of the most common questions we’re asked is “how long does grass turf last?”
This is understandable as most people looking for alternatives to natural grass are tired of the maintenance. They want something that lasts without upkeep.
The short answer is artificial turf lasts between 10 – 20 years on average.
But it depends on these 2 things.
Climate
If you live in an area which has snowy winters, that weight will take a toll. Just like if you live in a place with rainy weather, that water will take a toll.
Gutters is a great example of this. If your roof is constantly being rained on, the gutters will deteriorate faster than if there’s no rain.
In our Louisville location – the weather is certainly more chaotic than other parts of the country. Which means all that snow, rain, and ice can take a toll for any outdoor area – especially grass.
Freezing temperatures can make the turf fibers rigid and more prone to breaking when trampled, significantly affecting the surface’s shock absorption abilities.
The expansion and contraction of the ground beneath the turf due to freezing and thawing cycles can lead to uneven surfaces, creating potential hazards and affecting the performance characteristics of the turf.
But in places like our Sarasota location, the weather is warmer and more forgiving (as long as there’s no hurricanes), artificial turf tends to fare better.
But the sun can also bring problems. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the synthetic fibers to degrade, leading to fading and weakening of the turf.
This UV damage can make the fibers brittle, increasing the likelihood of them breaking under pressure and reducing the overall lifespan of the turf.
How Often It’s Being Used
If we’re installing turf for a baseball field in Prospect, KY, the turf will have a shorter lifespan than if we’re installing a front yard.
The type of activity performed on the turf also plays a crucial role in its wear and tear.
Activities that involve sharp turns, intense impacts, and dragging equipment can accelerate the degradation of the turf.
For example, soccer or football fields might exhibit more wear in goal areas and along the sidelines where player traffic is highest.
Over time, these areas show signs of thinning, matting, or even tearing, necessitating more frequent maintenance or partial replacements to ensure the field remains playable and safe.
What Can I Do to Extend the Life of Artificial Turf?
Extending the life of artificial turf involves a series of maintenance routines and practices that can help preserve its aesthetic and functional qualities.
Firstly, regular cleaning is a must.
This means removing debris such as leaves, twigs, and trash that can accumulate on the surface.
Such debris can not only degrade the appearance of the turf but also impede drainage and encourage the growth of weeds or moss.
Using a leaf blower or a soft-bristled brush to gently clear the surface can prevent damage to the fibers and ensure the turf remains clean and functional.
Secondly, it’s essential to ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to mold and mildew, as well as the breakdown of the infill material.
Periodically checking the drainage system for clogs or debris can prevent these issues. In areas with high rainfall, more frequent checks may be necessary to maintain optimal drainage performance.
This not only helps in maintaining the aesthetic appearance but also the safety and usability of the turf, especially in sports applications or heavy-use areas.
Infill maintenance is another crucial aspect of extending the life of your turf. The infill helps keep the turf blades upright and provides necessary cushioning.
Over time, the infill can become compacted or start to deplete, leading to a less resilient surface. Regularly raking or brushing the turf can help redistribute and fluff up the infill, which supports the fibers and maintains the surface’s evenness and shock absorption capabilities.
For high-traffic areas, topping up the infill may be required periodically to ensure the turf remains in optimal condition.
Just because grass turf is easier to maintain than regular grass – it doesn’t make it last forever.
While artificial turf will save you a bunch of time, effort, and money on maintenance, that doesn’t make it indestructible!
Proper care is a must – even if it is significantly less than a natural lawn.
If you have any questions about artificial turf or want to speak with a member about getting it installed for you, call us today at 502-677-4548!