Artificial grass is becoming increasingly popular in contemporary gardens and backyards, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. When compared to regular grass, artificial grass requires very little maintenance, making it a great option for modern homes. However, is artificial grass the right choice for you? If you are considering installing an artificial lawn at your own home, look at the guide below to find out everything you need to know.
What Are the Pros of Artificial Grass?
There are multiple benefits to installing artificial grass in your yard. Below is a list outlining all of the advantages:
- It maintains an aesthetically pleasing look all year round, no matter what the weather is doing
- It doesn’t require a lot of maintenance
- You can spend more time enjoying your yard and less time worrying about mowing
- Reduces pollution that may be caused by the lawnmower
- It doesn’t need watering, so it reduces water usage
- It can’t be spoiled or dug up by pets
- It can work out cheaper over an extended period, as real grass requires constant maintenance
- It stays a lush green shade all year round
- You can choose the color, pile, texture, length, yarn, and density and completely customize the look to how you want it
- It dries much more quickly than real grass
- It is child-friendly, soft, and mess-free
- It is more weed-resistant than real grass
- Due to the materials, it remains pest-free
- It’s very durable
What Are the Cons of Artificial Grass?
There are also several drawbacks to choosing artificial grass. Look at the potential drawbacks below:
- The upfront cost of artificial grass can be quite high
- It can absorb and retain heat, so it can become uncomfortably hot on sunny days
- Disposal can be challenging, and it contributes to plastic waste
- The production process can have environmental impacts
- It can remove certain habitats for small insects and other wildlife
- It lacks the natural feel and scent of real grass
- It may need brushing to maintain its upright appearance
- Improper installation can lead to drainage problems
- If not properly cleaned, it can harbor unpleasant odors from things like pet waste
- It can be costly to repair
How Do You Maintain Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass is extremely easy to maintain. However, it is a good idea to keep on top of cleaning it so that it is always looking its best.
There are several things you can do to maintain your artificial grass and keep it looking great. One of the most important things you will need to do is give it a good brush every now and again to get rid of any debris. Also, a quick spray with the hose can keep it looking clean and fresh.
Spot-cleaning the areas that need it most can also help. You can wipe these areas with a damp sponge or cloth as and when needed. Brush your artificial grass regularly with a stiff broom, as this can help keep it looking perky and can also prevent the build-up of debris. If you allow debris to build up on it, this could cause moss growth, so it is important to brush the area regularly.
It is best to brush and rinse your artificial lawn once each week, if possible, to keep it looking its best. You can use washing liquid on your artificial grass if you want to give it a good and proper deep clean. However, you should avoid using any harsh chemicals on it as this could damage the plastic.
You can pressure wash your artificial lawn if you want to give it a good and proper clean. However, you must ensure the pressure washer is in the right setting to avoid damaging the grass blades. When pressure washing the artificial lawn, use a wide-angled tip and always make sure to keep the wand at least a foot away from the surface of the lawn to prevent any damage.
Artificial Grass Ideas
Artificial grass can look great, and there are many brilliant things that you can do to transform the aesthetic of your lawn completely. Below is a list of some great artificial grass ideas for you to consider:
Flowerbed Features
Flowerbeds are a lovely addition to your yard. Although it can be great to have a complete artificial lawn, this may look a bit boring if you only have grass and nothing else. You can use flowerbeds as a border for your lawn to make it more exciting, or you could even incorporate flowerbeds to separate certain areas of the lawn for a unique look. Adding a flowerbed has a lot of benefits, including adding scents and colors, attracting insects and animals, and adding authenticity to the lawn.
Adding Pathways
You can create a magical journey through your yard with the use of pretty pathways or stepping stones within the artificial lawn. This is also good for artificial grass as it minimizes footfall, allowing it to last much longer. Not only that, but pathways can also help add some extra character to your lawnn, providing it with a truly unique aesthetic.
Children’s Play Area
If you have young children, you may want to install a section of artificial grass that acts as a dedicated play area for them. Real grass can easily become ripped or ruined by children running around and playing on it. Choosing artificial grass will help to prevent the possibility of your lawn looking untidy.
Raised Levels
A great way to improve the aesthetics of your yard and make it look truly unique is to add some raised levels. You could install some steps and create various levels of artificial grass, as well as add some other features to create a really exciting and magical outdoor space that you, your guests and your family can all enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Artificial grass offers a convenient and aesthetically pleasing landscaping solution. It is particularly beneficial for those seeking a low-maintenance lawn and year-round greenery. However, it is essential that you weigh up the pros and cons carefully, considering the initial cost, environmental impact and personal preferences. For some people, the convenience of artificial grass outweighs the drawbacks, while other people may prefer the natural beauty and ecological benefits of real grass. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual priorities and circumstances.