The Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass

A manicured lawn is a beautiful sight. The lush, green turf speaks of vitality and even luxury, and it plays the perfect host to family braais and playtime with kids and pets. It’s also understandable that not all homeowners have the time it takes to maintain an evergreen backyard. In a country like South Africa that often struggles with drought, putting the sprinklers on each day is not always possible either. As we move towards a more environmentally friendly society, more homeowners are opting for synthetic lawns. While there are various pros and cons of artificial grass, it is one product that will continue to gain popularity, and we explore why.

How the Product is Made

Before examining the pros and cons of artificial grass, it is easier to understand its limits when one knows how it is created. The manufacturing process is similar to how carpets are made, with blades stitched onto a solid backing. Some modern designs also have brown thatch weaved amongst the green to replicate a real lawn, which is rarely a solid green colour.

A Careful Look at the Cons of Artificial Grass

Within the list of pros and cons of artificial grass, the cons may put some homeowners off. It is by no means a product for everyone, but for those who prefer a live lawn, it likely comes down to an authentic look and feel. Plenty of products on the market today are indistinguishable from live lawns, thankfully.

Low-quality Products May Contain Toxic Chemicals

Some low-quality products are known for harmful chemicals. Newer, high-quality products that are free of chemicals are always recommended. Live lawns, on the other hand, often require weed-killers, pesticides, fertilizers and more, which also give off fumes and even cause runoff during rainstorms that make their way into water sources.

It May Become Hotter in the Summer

A synthetic lawn that receives direct sunlight all day will be hotter than a live lawn. For this reason, some homeowners choose to install it in those shady patches on the lawn that never see any sunlight and don’t grow anything at all. Most people, however, tend to remain indoors during the hottest periods of the day, so it isn’t an issue. During winter, it may make spending time outside more enjoyable.

Some Gardeners Enjoy Lawn Care

The bragging rights associated with a luscious lawn are what some homeowners are seeking. For the landscaping aficionado, nothing is more relaxing than watering, mowing and de-weeding their grass plot. For gardeners at heart who wish to still enjoy time tending to their yard, it is still possible to install artificial grass along with garden beds and potted plants.

The Biodiversity of the Yard is Reduced

A synthetic lawn is not going to attract as many creepy crawlies and critters as a live lawn, which is a bonus for some. Others enjoy having a little life in their backyard, but this can be done without turf. Planting some trees, insect-attracting flowers, and even a vegetable patch or two will still encourage bird and wildlife visitors, as well as insects like butterflies and bees.

It Will Not Last as Long as a Live Lawn

Another major consideration in the pros and cons list is how long the product lasts relative to its price. Artificial grass can last a long time, but plants last longer. The downside to this longevity is that it takes daily care and a financial commitment to keep a live lawn thriving.

Why the Pros Outweigh the Cons When the Right Products Are Used

The pros and cons of artificial grass will depend on one’s specific needs, but for both indoor and outdoor use, it is undeniably an easy option that won’t take money or resources to maintain. Eco-friendly in nature, high-quality synthetic lawns look fabulous when installed right, and perform well season after season.

Ideal in Areas with Water Restrictions

Some parts of South Africa are prone to droughts. Many property owners have resorted to xeriscaping, which means gardening in a way that reduces the need for irrigation. Introducing plants to one’s garden that require less water is a clever way of doing this, but synthetic lawns are the best way to significantly lower water usage.

Virtually No Upkeep for a Beautiful Look

Not all homeowners have the time or capacity to care for their yards. Elderly and disabled individuals, for example, may struggle with lawn upkeep. Those who leave home often for business trips or holidays might find it frustrating always coming home to a dead yard. The pros of artificial grass are that it doesn’t require daily care, and you’ll save money on paying a gardener to maintain it regularly. It is an evergreen product, so it stays green all year round, without falling prone to seasonal changes. Homeowners with pets will also enjoy how pet-friendly this option is. Pet waste is easy to clean with water and even a light detergent when needed, and dogs don’t easily dig unsightly holes into the lawn.

A Wide Variety of Colours and Textures

Users love how spoiled for choice they are when it comes to pile heights, shades and textures. We at Top Carpets and Floors have various available products including our Designer Grass, Artificial Grass Collection and Likelawn ranges.

To find out more about the pros and cons of artificial lawns and whether the pros would benefit you, contact us today.