Love Your Lawn

Real Turf vs Artificial

Natural grass is, of course, a living, breathing and functioning plant. There are all kinds of grass types you can choose for your lawn, depending on where you live and what your climate is like. 

Artificial grass, on the other hand, is a material that is made out of synthetic fibers. These manmade fibers look just like real grass, but are not. Usually, artificial grass is made out of polyethylene, which is a common form of plastic also found in everyday items like plastic bags and soft drink bottles.

1. It Stays Cooler

Reason number one to choose natural grass? It stays a lot cooler in the summer. 

Artificial grass can get extremely hot in the sun while natural grass is up to 15 degrees cooler than the ambient temperature. That’s why lying on your lawn on a scorching hot day feels so soothing – the grass is cooling you down! 

Not only is natural grass cooler to the touch, but surrounding your home with it can reduce your cooling costs in the summer, too. 

2. It’s More Eco-Friendly

A common misconception about artificial turf is that, since it requires no water or fertilizer, it’s better for the environment. That’s not necessarily the case.

There is a significant carbon footprint involved in the manufacturing of artificial turf. It’s made out of plastics that contain petrochemicals – which, as we all know, are resources that are in short supply. 

3. Natural Grass is Better for Your Health

Some people report that artificial turf is not nearly as comfortable to walk or play on as natural grass. It goes without saying that you’re less likely to injure yourself on a natural lawn than on an artificial one.

Not only that, but there are ongoing studies into the health impacts of the fibers used in the creation of artificial turf. Since they contain petroleum products, they could be detrimental to your health just as other plastics are.

4. It’s Less Expensive to Install

Cost will be one of the biggest factors to consider when deciding between natural grass and artificial turf. Artificial grass can cost up to $100 per square meter to install, while natural turf only costs around $25 per square meter – and that’s if you’re paying someone to install it for you. Installing natural turf yourself can save a ton of money. 

5. Replacing it is Not Costly at All

Finally, although a natural lawn will require more maintenance, you’ll find that it’s not that much work if you stick to a routine. When maintained properly, it will last forever.

Artificial turf, however, will break down over time even with the best of care. It only lasts for 10 to 15 years before it needs to be replaced.

For most people, natural grass will make the most sense. It contains no harmful chemicals, is inexpensive to install and is inexpensive to maintain. If you’re concerned about water usage, there are plenty of drought tolerant grasses you can grow that use minimal water.