How Long Does Artificial Grass Last?
How long does artificial grass last? Artificial grass is a popular choice for homeowners and business owners alike. It is also an excellent turf option for sports fields and sporting complexes because of its low maintenance requirements and superior durability compared to natural grass. Premium grade artificial grass is designed to last 15 to 20 years or more but it depends on several factors including proper installation techniques, material quality, type and amount of usage, if and how often maintenance is performed and lastly how climate and environment can impact your new turf.
In this brief article, we hope to explain how to prevent turf from failing, tips to maximize its durability, and what you might expect from turf installed in different climates around the country.
Proper Installation
A proper turf installation ensures the turf’s longevity. Key aspects of a proper or professional Installation include:
- Substrate Preparation: A well-prepared, properly compacted base with the necessary drainage will reduce turf shifting or allowing water to pool.
- Edge Securing: Securing the edges of your turf will help prevent turf curl or unraveling.
- Seam Integrity The integrity of your turf’s seams will mean the difference between long lasting and problems with lift, rolling and tearing.
Poor installation techniques can lead to uneven surfaces, wrinkles, or an overall shorter lifespan for your turf. Improper installation or skipping basic installation steps can also lead to trip hazards for you, your kids, your pets and your guests.
Material Quality
The quality of artificial turf determines its life cycle. Premium materials like polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon are more resilient to wear and tear. Most high quality, premium artificial turf comes with UV inhibitors to protect it from sun damage, ensuring that it’s natural looking color remains vibrant over time.
- Example: Nylon turf is highly durable and ideal for heavy-use areas like sports fields, whereas polyethylene is softer and more suited for residential lawns.
Type Of Usage
The amount and type of usage on new turf has a direct impact on its durability. For example, turf installations for business and residential properties designed to improve curb appeal, last the longest. Residential turf installations in backyard spaces where traffic is regular but limited to kids and pets mostly, can last up to 20 years. Properties with specialized pet friendly turf can last 10-15 years as long as it is cleaned and maintained enough.Sports fields and sporting venues with heavy foot traffic and regular usage will most likely require more periodic maintenance and replacements within 12 years or so.
Maintenance Routine
While artificial grass requires less maintenance than natural grass, regular upkeep is essential for longevity:
- Remove debris like leaves, dirt and pet waste to prevent matting and looking trampled.
- Brush fibers to keep them upright and standing tall.
- Rinse with a hose as needed to eliminate dust and dirt buildup, and to wash off pet waste and odors.
Neglecting these basic maintenance tips will only help to promote wear and tear.
Environmental Conditions
Artificial grass is designed for lasting performance in all types of climates. However, some climates with extreme conditions like snow and ice, and excessive heat, can effect it. In freezing climates, freeze-thaw cycles can degrade turf over time. In extreme heat climates, turf designed without adequate UV protection and high quality fibers may lose color faster due to fading. Overall, artificial grass products are designed to last many years while providing the natural look and feel of real grass lawns. Weather you live in the desert, the mid-west, the mountains or along the coast, artificial turf is a great property investment that will look amazing while saving you time and money
When it comes to getting the most life out of your turf investment, we hope you will remember these basic principles.
Do you have a turf maintenance question? Contact the pros at National Turf Pros. Turf Is Our Specialty!
