Artificial Grass: Frequently Asked Questions
Artificial grass is a synthetic substitute for natural grass used in areas where it is difficult to grow or maintain grass. Artificial turf is also considered where cost of maintenance for natural grass gets too expensive, especially in playing certain sports. The first recorded use of synthetic grass in professional sports was for the Astrodome in Houston, Texas. Because of its popularity, the making of synthetic turf has made the synthetic fiber carpet more developed to ensure it has no ill effects on health, and that it is safe as well as a durable replacement to natural grass.
A lot of people have also considered using synthetic turf in their homes to save on costs of maintenance as well as make it convenient to maintain a 'green' space. Because of this, a lot of questions have also been asked regarding the use of artificial grass to replace natural turf. The following are some of the more frequently asked of these questions which homemakers direct to synthetic grass installers.
What is the difference between natural grass and artificial turf?
Firstly is of course the material it is made of. Artificial grass is made up wholly of synthetic material. It grass can be used more intensely without inflicting a lot of damage to it, unlike with natural grass that can get pulled out easily. It lasts much longer and does not need a lot of fuss to maintain like natural grass which needs to be trimmed, watered, and allowed to 'rest' and grow before being exposed to more abuse. However, the look and feel of artificial grass has been made to resemble natural grass very closely.
Is artificial turf expensive?
The initial outlay for artificial turf is a moderate investment, but the return on your investment can be quite high when you consider that its maintenance cost is lesser than for natural grass, much less intensive, and much more convenient when you consider it for a residential space. Plus it can stand up to much more wear and tear than natural grass which can get patchy and bare in areas that are exposed to abuse.
What is synthetic grass made of?
Synthetic fiber of progreen artificial grass can be mainly made up of polyethylene, which is softer than the other materials, more skin-friendly, but durable; polypropylene, which is a bit stiffer but more durable; and nylon, which is somewhat harder than the other two but also much more durable.
Do the synthetic grass fibers flatten out after some time?
Fiber infills help to keep the fibers upright and make them spring back after being stepped on. This technology is used in such fibers so that they always go back to their original shape. Maintenance also helps keep the synthetic fibers in shape for long while of use.
How long does artificial grass last?
Depending on its use and maintenance, the artificial turf can last an average of ten years. After such a time, when the fibers have deteriorated, there is an option to change only the topmost layer of the turf for less expense and once again have a brand new grass carpet.
Does artificial grass fade after being in the sun too long? Is it UV-resistant?
The fiber protection system on artificial turf fibers protect from fading when exposed to sunlight. Ultraviolet stabilizers ensure that the harmful rays do not get into the fibers.
Can artificial grass cause staining on clothes and other surfaces it comes in contact with?
Artificial turf made to be color-fast and therefore does not stain or rub off on clothes and other surfaces which get rubbed across it.