What Is Turf Grass? A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Type

Turf grass, also known as artificial grass, has become increasingly popular for both commercial and residential purposes. It provides a low-maintenance, durable, and aesthetically pleasing substitute for natural grass. There’s an option for you, whether you are looking for a lush lawn, a safe play area, or a covering for a golf course, and we’re here to help you narrow down your choices and ensure you get a quality product.

What Is Turf Grass?

Turf Grass is a man-made alternative to lawn grass designed to mimic the real thing. Manufactured from synthetic fibers, it can be utilized for various applications. These include residential lawns, playgrounds, sports fields, and golf courses. Artificial grass offers several advantages over the real thing:

• Lower Maintenance – You don’t need to cut, water, fertilize, or use any pesticides.
• Durable – You won’t have to reseed and repair damage to turf from natural causes,like animals (both pets and wild ones) and children.
• Year-round Green Appearance – Weather conditions won’t cause a brown landscape or golf course.

Varieties of Artificial Grass

While there are various types of turf grass designed for specific applications and preferences, they all share the benefits mentioned in the above section. Understanding the qualities of each of the varieties will help in selecting the one that is best for your situation:

• Nylon Grass – Nylon is perhaps the strongest and most durable of artificial grasses. It is well-suited for golf courses, playgrounds, sports fields, and landscapes, and it is highly utilized. Nylon grass often looks like the real thing, yet it is the most expensive of the options. Cost: $5 – $8 per sq. ft.
• Polyethylene Grass – Polyethylene is a popular selection for residential lawns due to its natural appearance and relatively soft texture. While it is less durable than nylon, it is UV-resistant, which helps maintain its appearance. Cost: $2 -$4 per sq. ft.
• Polypropylene Grass – Polypropylene is the cheapest option and is mainly used for decorative areas. While it least resembles natural grass, it can be a cost-effective solution for areas where aesthetics are key. Cost: can be found for less than $2 per sq. ft.

Factors to Consider When Buying Turf Grass

You want to make sure you make the right choice. There are several factors to consider, such as:

• Intended Use – The intended use should heavily impact your decision. Heavier foot traffic involving both people and pets will necessitate a sturdier type of turf grass, but something needed purely for esthetics might be sufficiently served by polypropylene.
• Density – Density is the measure of the number of fibers per square foot. Higher density measures produce a more realistic appearance. Thicker turf grasses tend to be more durable and comfortable to walk on barefoot. On the other hand, lower-density turf grass may be less expensive, but it may also be equally uncomfortable and unforgiving when it comes to sports.
• Pile Height –Pile height indicates the length of the individual grass blades. Artificial grass with a shorter height (10-30 mm) is typically used for sports fields, golf courses, and playgrounds for which performance and durability are key. A medium pile height (30-37 mm) is best suited for residential lawns and general terrain, offering a compromise between looks and functionality. Longer pile height (37-45 mm) turf grass provides a lush appearance.
• Infill – Infill refers to the material placed between the grass fibers to provide stability, cushioning, and support. The most typical infill materials include sand, rubber fragments, and silica. Sand infill is relatively inexpensive and provides good stability, while rubber provides better cushioning and shock absorption. Silica infill is the premium option that provides excellent drainage and durability but could be much more expensive.
• Budget – It all depends on how much you are willing to spend compared to what your needs are. If you get something durable, you’ll find that it pays for itself shortly. This is one area where you need to think carefully.

Installing Artificial Grass

Proper installation is critical to get it to look the way you want. While professional installation is recommended for optimal results, you could install turf grass by yourself so long as you have the right tools and prepare the surfaces properly. Just follow these basic steps to do the installation:

Site Preparation

• Remove pre-existing plants and obstructions – Clear the area of any existing grass, weeds, rocks, and any sort of debris. Use a sod cutter and/or shovel to remove the top layer of soil.
• Level the ground – Ensure the ground is level and smooth. Level out any divoots or undulations in the soil.
• Lay down a weed barrier – Put down a geotextile fabric before applying the turf grass material to prevent weed growth.

Base Layer

• Add a base layer – Over the weed barrier, lay down a layer of crushed stone or gravel to allow water to drain. After ensuring that it is spread evenly, pack it down using a plate compactor or something similar.
• Level the base layer – Employ a rake to distribute the material evenly and create a firm surface.

Laying the Turf Grass

• Set out the grass material: Roll out the turf grass over the area you have prepped. Allow the grass to set for a few hours before securing and trimming the material.
• Cut the edges – A utility knife can come in handy to trim the grass edges to fit the space assigned. Edges and borders should be flush with any bordering material, like cement.
• Secure the material – Secure the turf grass materials with some type of recommended adhesive or landscape staples. Set the adhesive or staples along the edges and seams to hold everything in place.

Infill Finishing

• Apply infill – Spread the chosen infill material evenly over the artificial grass. Use a drop spreader or shovel to distribute the infill, and brush the grass to work the infill into the fibers.
• Brush the grass – Use a power brush or stiff broom to brush through the grass fibers until they are upright.
• Inspect and adjust – Make any final adjustments to ensure that the surface is smooth and even.

Maintaining Artificial Grass

While artificial grass requires minimal maintenance compared to natural grass, some upkeep is still required.

Regular Cleaning

• Remove accumulated trash and other debris – Regularly remove leaves, twigs, and trash using a broom or leaf blower.
• Rinse/Clean the material – Rinse the turf grass every 4-6 months with water to remove dirt, pollen, and anything else that has accumulated. Use a hose or sprinkler sprayer.

Brushing

• Brush the grass – Brush the grass regularly to keep the fibers upright and maintain its appearance. A stiff broom should work fine.

Weed Control

• Remove any weeds – Inspect the grass for any weeds. Remove them promptly to prevent spread.

Repairs

• Check for wear – Check for damage and repair. This might be replacing some sections or possibly filling holes in the material.

Turf grass is a good substitute for the real thing in a variety of applications like lawns, golf courses, sports fields, and commercial frontage. Choosing the right variety and properly installing and maintaining it will ensure that it lasts for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is turf grass made of?

Turf grass is made from synthetic fibers, usually polypropylene, polyethylene, or nylon, tufted into a backing and topped with infill. Lawn Kings turf is certified PFAS-free and lead-free.

What is the difference between turf grass and natural grass?

Turf grass is a manufactured surface that stays green with no watering, mowing, or fertilizer, while natural grass is living and needs ongoing care. Turf costs more upfront and far less to maintain.

A lot of what people believe about turf is 20 years out of date. We take on the most persistent ones in busting myths about artificial grass.

How long does turf grass last?

Quality turf grass lasts about 15 to 20 years with normal home use, thanks to UV-stabilized fibers and a compacted base.

Is turf grass safe for pets and kids?

Yes. Certified PFAS-free, lead-free turf with non-toxic infill is safe for pets and children, with no mud, pesticides, or fertilizer.

That certification is not something to take on trust. Ours is third-party tested, and we published the details when we certified our turf PFAS-free and lead-free.