Gone are the days when artificial turf was only installed on sports fields and other high-traffic locations where green grass is needed year-round because of its uniform look and minimal maintenance requirements. Today, It’s a wise decision for homeowners to invest in artificial grass. And for a homeowner, durability is a significant purchasing factor. Artificial grass has a reputation for lasting a long time. In fact, it is said to endure anywhere from 20 to 25 years. However, several things influence its lifetime, including the amount of use and frequent maintenance it receives.

So, to answer the ever-so-common question about the longevity of artificial grass, let’s discuss the factors that contribute to the life of the turf?

Material of the Blade

Artificial grass, like genuine grass, is composed of thousands of individual blades. Each grass blade is stitched to background material and constructed of plastic. Because the strength of these blades has such a significant influence on the longevity and endurance of your fake grass, the plastic used to make them is quite important.

Nylon or polypropylene, two extremely tough synthetic polymers, are commonly used to create artificial grass. However, the materials range in terms of durability, which has an effect on the entire lifespan of your fake grass.

Choosing the Ideal Infill

Infill is essential for making artificial grass robust and long-lasting. Which sort of infill is optimal depends on how the grass will be utilized. An antimicrobial infill that is typically rounded quartz sand is typically coated to help prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. This type of infill will also be less abrasive and will help reduce the odor of pet urine. 

This type of infill will also help prevent the backing from being damaged along with helping to hold the grass blades upright over time much longer than other types of infill. I will also help with the drainage of your turf and in some cases help reduce the temperature. Many types of info will also be pet and kid-friendly and non-toxic. Please feel free to contact us to get further information on this type of infill and other testing information. Talk to our landscaping professionals to discover all of the infill choices available.

Usage of Different Durable Materials

Both the synthetic grass and the mesh backing that binds everything together are made from polyurethane, polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene, and jute. Even with prolonged, severe usage, these materials do not erode or disintegrate. They are almost stain-proof and very resistant to harsh temperature changes and fading.

The mesh backing’s complex pattern offers the foundation for robustness and longevity. The grass blades also appear and feel as natural as possible thanks to the blend of materials. Artificial turf, unlike natural grass, will not tear, turn brown, or die if used excessively.

Type of Bond Used

To keep the synthetic turf together, each blade of faux grass is sewed onto a backing product, as previously explained. There are two layers to the backing. The top layer is the membrane to which the synthetic grass is physically linked, while the second backing layer is often polyurethane or latex and acts as a bonding substance, gluing everything together.

If the link between the first and second layers of the backing is broken, the artificial grass’s lifespan is likely to be shortened greatly. With this in mind, if you can get a sample of faux grass, make sure to evaluate the backing bond strength. The backing on lower-quality artificial grass is weaker, but the backing on higher-quality artificial grass is more durable.

Installation is Key

Above all things, it’s critical to make sure your fake grass is properly installed. It’s simple for your lawn to suffer from poor drainage, weed development, and plant-based damage without proper installation, all of which may severely reduce the lifespan of your artificial grass.

While DIY efforts can be successful (instructions for installing your own artificial lawn can be found here), we always recommend hiring a professional installer to ensure a high-quality finish that will help your artificial grass survive as long as possible.

Increase the Life of Your Artificial Grass

Do not buy into the myth that synthetic grass is free of any maintenance. In fact, proper care will not only improve the aesthetic but also extend the life of the grass. Other than the factors mentioned above, here are some ways you can increase the life of your synthetic turf. 

  • Using a leaf blower, raking with a plastic rake, or sweeping with a broom, you can keep leaves and debris off your grass. Leaves won’t harm you right away, but allowing them to decompose creates organic debris in which potential weeds might grow and develop. The longer weeds go untreated, the more difficult it will be to get rid of them.
  • Brush your grass with a stiff brush on a regular basis (non-metal). Any minuscule roots from weeds will be broken up before they become evident to the human eye. This will also assist to maintain the greatest possible condition of the plastic fibers. Brush against or into the direction in which the fibers are inclined.
  • Heavy objects can be placed on synthetic turf, but they should not be left there since any depressions in the subbase will be difficult to repair. Heavy equipment and machinery should be rotated or moved about to ensure that your fake grass wears evenly over the whole area. Furniture and outdoor objects should be treated in the same way. 
  • Remove stains as soon as they occur for the best chance of removing them easily with a clean cloth or dry absorbent such as cat litter. Just be sure to vacuum up any dry absorbent once the stain has been collected. Remove a stain or mess using a plastic spatula or knife if it has solidified.

Final Takeaway

Synthetic grass is built to last owing to the materials used, but the longevity of your lawn is determined by a variety of factors such as usage, product quality, and care. Most artificial grass will last at least 15 years in regular use, with more casual use, such as in a back garden, lasting over 20 years. If you have any more questions regarding artificial grass, its characteristics, or if it is right for you, please contact us and our experts will be pleased to provide you with the information you need.