As a homeowner, having lush, green grass on your lawn is a dream come true. But having the perfect outdoor space can be challenging to achieve. You may struggle to keep up with watering, mowing or other general yard work to keep your grass in shape. Fortunately, there is an easier option: artificial turf. Using faux grass will give you all the benefits of natural grass without the stress of constant maintenance.
Types of Artificial Grass
When talking about artificial grass, the choices are numerous and can be puzzling if you’re not an expert. Artificial turfs are often categorized based on materials, blade shapes and specific uses.
The following are some of the most popular types of artificial grass:
- Nylon artificial turf
- Polypropylene artificial turf
- Polyethylene artificial turf
Here’s an overview of different kinds of turfs based on material.
Nylon Artificial Turf
Although it can be more expensive than other types, nylon is one of the best artificial turf types currently on the market.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider nylon turf.
Durability
Nylon turf is known for its excellent durability and strength. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and high temperatures without losing shape or color. Because of this, nylon grass is ideal for areas exposed to harsh sunlight or where constant use is expected. If you’re thinking of the perfect artificial grass for high-traffic lawns and play areas, nylon is the answer.
Heat Resistance
Another key selling point of nylon turf is its heat resistance. Nylon turfs can withstand high levels of heat without bending or warping. It is perfect for outdoor areas that receive a lot of sunlight.
Structural Integrity
Nylon artificial turf also has great structural integrity, so it’s often used in high-traffic areas. The stiff, upright blades retain a fresh, natural appearance even after heavy use. It can support the weight of furniture and other heavy items without flattening. Its ability to spring back after pressure ensures it always looks well-maintained.
Low Maintenance
Unlike other types of turf, maintaining a nylon turf is affordable and easy. For example, you only need water and a gentle brush to keep this turf looking clean and fresh. Unlike natural grass, it doesn’t need mowing, watering or fertilizer, making its maintenance more manageable. A lawn care professional can walk you through how to maintain artificial turf.
Nylon turf offers many benefits, like UV resistance, which prevents fading, and water resistance. It is ideal for any space. Although it can be more expensive, nylon turf is worth its cost thanks to its long life span, simple maintenance and natural look.
Polypropylene Artificial Turf
If cost is an essential consideration when choosing an artificial turf for your property, consider polypropylene artificial turf. This is a soft, lightweight option that works well for areas with light foot traffic.
Here are some of its top benefits.
Affordable
Polypropylene is the most affordable artificial turf option. It works well for homeowners who want the feel of grass without a high price tag. Due to its lightweight nature, polypropylene turf often has lower installation charges, making it even more affordable.
Lightweight
Propylene turf is light, making it practical for installations in areas that might be difficult to access. Its lightweight nature often reduces installation times.
Despite its numerous advantages, propylene artificial turf can be less durable, retains more heat and is more sensitive to UV radiation than other artificial turf.
Polyethylene Artificial Turf
Polyethylene faux grass is a favorite among homeowners for its natural look and feel. It’s softer and more flexible than nylon, offering a realistic grass-like texture.
Here are the top qualities of polyethylene turf.
Comfort
Polyethylene turfs have a soft and lush texture closely resembling natural grass. This makes them ideal for playgrounds, sports fields, backyards or residential lawns with high human and pet traffic. Polyethylene is also gentle on the skin, which can be a bonus for areas where kids will be playing.
Durability
While not as strong as nylon, polyethylene is still highly durable and can withstand moderate foot traffic. It is an excellent option for residential lawns and other areas with lighter foot traffic.
Natural Looking
Polyethylene turfs, especially when designed with the right blade colors and textures, offer a realistic, natural look that resembles real grass. This quality makes it a favorite for homeowners who want an aesthetically pleasing lawn.
UV Resistance
Polyethylene turf is highly resistant to UV rays, unlike other artificial turf types. This means it won’t fade quickly, keeping your lawn vibrant and green for years.
Choosing the correct type of artificial turf depends on your unique needs, budget and preferences. However, making the right decision can be tricky if you don’t have experience with artificial turf. That’s why contacting a lawn care specialist for guidance is best. This professional will answer all your questions, including how long artificial turf lasts.
What Is the Toughest Artificial Turf?
Nylon is the winner if you’re looking for the toughest artificial turf. Nylon is incredibly durable and can withstand heavy use and extreme conditions. Unlike polypropylene, nylon doesn’t warp under pressure and is more durable than polyethylene. Nylon artificial turf is ideal for:
- High traffic areas
- Sports fields
- Recreational areas, like parks
High Traffic Areas
Consider using nylon turf in areas with high foot traffic, such as walkways. The nylon turf won’t compress or show signs of wear and will last longer without replacement.
Nylon’s strength comes from its robust fibers, which resist wear and tear better than other materials. It’s also highly UV-resistant, so it won’t fade or degrade in direct sunlight. For areas with heavy use, nylon is unmatched.
Sports Fields
Nylon’s ability to withstand intense physical activity makes it perfect for sports grounds. The turf retains its shape even under constant use, whether on a soccer or football field. Additionally, its heat resistance ensures a comfortable playing surface in hot climates.
Recreational Grounds
Nylon turf offers a safe, durable surface that can handle frequent use. Think of recreational parks, public squares and pet parks.
While nylon turf is incredibly durable, it often comes at a higher price point. However, its long lifespan and minimal upkeep make it worth the price. A lawn care expert can help you understand density rating and pile height. These factors are essential to know when shopping for the best artificial grass.
What Thickness of Artificial Grass Is Best?
You’re not alone if you’re wondering how thick your artificial turf should be. Most homeowners struggle with this common question. The thickness of your artificial grass depends on your needs.
For example, longer blades, around one and a half to two inches, work best if you desire a more natural look. This length better resembles real grass. Use longer blades for decorative lawns, residential gardens or commercial spaces where visual appeal is a priority.
In contrast, shorter blades, around half an inch to one inch, are better suited for high-traffic areas such as sports fields and playgrounds. Shorter blades are stronger and maintain their shape and appearance under constant use. They are also easier to clean, making them a practical choice for functional spaces.
For areas where safety is a concern, such as a backyard where children will play, it’s best to choose turf with additional padding.
Choosing the right thickness of artificial grass depends on traffic level, aesthetic goals and safety concerns. For best results, consult a lawn care professional. This professional will assist you in selecting the best thickness of artificial grass for your project.
Consult the Pros for Your Artificial Grass Needs
As a homeowner, artificial turf is an excellent substitute for real grass. It provides a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn all year round while saving you time and money.
However, it is not always easy to choose the right artificial turf. With so many options, it’s best to get professional help. Backed with years of experience, lawn care experts will assess your space and recommend the best turf type. You can also ask them other turf-related questions, like the difference between turf and artificial grass.
ABC Can Create The Yard Of Your Dreams
If you’re the type of homeowner who relishes a beautiful yard but doesn’t look forward to the work that goes into creating it, ABC Home & Commercial Services can install artificial turf. We can also help with other yard care tasks, such as mulching flower beds or trimming trees.
