Originally posted on August 12, 2016

In a time when water scarcity is a growing concern and finding time for gardening is a challenge, the appeal of a flawless, green lawn remains high on the list of priorities. The choice of artificial grass is on the rise as a solution. Although commonly associated with sports fields and golf putting areas, artificial grass is also an excellent choice for residential landscaping, including homes with pets. Artificial turf has a wide range of applications. The following are the three main uses:

Landscape

Have you ever wished your lawn would mow itself? Do you live in an area where you are not allowed to water because of drought, and thus your lawn suffers? Artificial turf can help with both problems. With a number of artificial turf options designed specifically for landscaping, homeowners have several options to consider if they are ready to ditch the grass.

Features of Artificial Turf for Landscaping

Landscape turf has a thatch layer of yarn, which can also be called the root zone. This layer is curly yarn that helps support the blades of yarn to look more like natural grass. The root zone can minimize the need for infill. Sometimes the thatch layer is tinted brown for a more realistic look.

Landscape turf is one of the heaviest turfs, with the highest amount of yarn per square yard as well as the addition of the thatch layer. If you are buying a turf for landscaping, make sure that it has a heavy face weight and total weight. Also, look for a turf with a pile height between 1.5 and 2 inches, which is a comfortable length for most landscaping applications. Finally, make sure that the backing has multiple layers, which will ensure durability.

The Bottom Line

If you are using artificial turf for landscaping, you want a heavy face weight, high pile and strong backing. The price reflects the high quality of landscaping turf, but it will pay for itself over time when you no longer have to water, mow, and fertilize.

Pets

Many of the features of landscaping turf are applicable for pets. You want durability, high pile count, and height weight. You also need features that deal with the realities of life with pets.

Features of Artificial Turf for Pets

Pets are going to use the turf to relieve their bladders, so the turf needs to have excellent drainage. It’s also important that the turf has the right infill designed to minimize odors and kill bacteria. It could also be a no-infill type. Some turfs that are designed specifically for pets will even have antimicrobial agents in the yarn to minimize odors. Finally, ensure that the turf has exceptional drainage, with special backing styles that ensure urine and other waste can drain properly.

The Bottom Line

Like landscaping turf, turf designed for use with pets is an investment, but without the right features, you will be replacing the turf prematurely when it begins to stink. Ensure that the product you are buying is not simply a standard landscaping turf, but that it has the right features to deal with the realities of pet ownership.

Sports

Durability reigns supreme for artificial turf to be used in sports. This turf is used in high traffic areas and must hold up against wear and tear.

Artificial turf for sports falls into two basic categories: athletic field turf and putting green turf.

Features of Artificial Turf for Athletic Fields

Typically 2 to 3 inches tall, artificial turf for athletic fields has no root layer and has an infill of rubber or sand, most commonly. The infill is essential, because without it the turf will lay over. It is designed for a safe and durable surface for field-based sports.

Features of Putting Green Turf

Putting green turf is designed for use in putting greens or miniature golf courses, as well as indoor golf applications. It is characteristically short, between 1/4 and 1/2 inch high in most applications. It can consist of either non-infill turf, which is made from curly nylon yarn, or sand-filled turf, which is made from polypropylene yarn. Of the two, nylon is more affordable and faster to install, but does not last as long. The polypropylene yarn requires repeated rolling to bend the blades, which makes the installation process more involved.

The Bottom Line

Athletic turf needs to be highly durable, but not necessarily as attractive as landscaping turf. Afterall, it’s going to be well used and well loved! Choose a turf for the specific sport or athletic need to get the best use out of the product.

Artificial Turf For Every Use

Artificial turf, no matter the application, represents a wise investment. Take the time to know different turf products, and the features they should have, and you will be rewarded with a durable, long-lasting, and beautiful product that suits your needs.