When talking with a few friends about installing artificial turf in the front and back yards, several of them had some concerns.
In fact, those concerns were based on information that’s outdated or was never true in the first place. While not doubting the sincerity of your friends, it pays to do your own homework and put these myths about synthetic grass to rest.
All Artificial Grass is Made the Same Way
This is among the most common myths and happens to be patently false.
Once upon a time, there was only a couple of different approaches to manufacturing the turf. These days, there is turf designed specifically for residential use. The materials and the production process varies from how turf for sports venues and commercial sites are made.
Harmful Chemicals in the Grass
The materials used in today’s artificial turf must meet stringent safety requirements.
The fact is that you are more likely to come in contact with fertilizers and chemicals if you have a natural lawn. In terms of anything that will hurt humans or pets, synthetic grass is easily the better alternative.
There’s Always a Drainage Problem
Depending on the type and the quality of the artificial grass, there is no reason for a drainage problem to occur.
Like many different kinds of products, you’ll get what you pay for. Choose a turf that is cheaply made and you could have a drainage problem. Go with turf created using better materials and more attention to the production process and you’ll find that water and other precipitation drains just fine.
There’s Concrete Under the Grass
You will likely hear someone say that you need to grade your property and then install concrete before the artificial grass can be put in place.
There is the need to prepare the ground, but it doesn’t involve laying concrete slabs. Instead, there will be filler that is used to create a smooth surface for the grass. That filler helps to enhance the natural feel of walking on real grass.
The Synthetic Grass is Too Hot
The grass manufactured today is designed to reflect rather than absorb heat.
That means it’s still comfortable to walk barefoot across the lawn on a hot summer day. In fact, it will feel much nicer than trying to walk down the paved driveway with no shoes on.
The Cost is Too High
There is a certain amount of expense involved with the installation of artificial turf.
On the back end, there is no need to pay for grass seed, fertilizer, or keep equipment on hand to mow and manicure the lawn. Most homeowners who do invest in artificial turf find that it saves enough money over the course of three to five years to offset the initial expense.
There’s No Maintenance
While the synthetic grass is easier to maintain, some effort is still required.
Usually the focus is on sweeping or raking the turf to remove leaves or other residue. That helps to keep the grass looking great at all times. While there is minor upkeep involved, it does pale in comparison to the care needed to maintain real grass.
There are a number of other myths you may hear about artificial grass. The best way to avoid passing them on is to ask an expert. Find out more about the benefits of installing synthetic turf in your yard today. As you learn the facts, you will feel more comfortable about moving forward with this type of home improvement project.
