Introduction
Do you like the look of a perfect, fresh lawn without any of the hassle? Artificial grass seems like the perfect solution! But wait! Artificial grass may seem like the perfect low-maintenance solution, but it’s not without its drawbacks. In this article, we are going to take a look at the problems with artificial grass, from the high installation cost to the toxic chemicals used during installation. So, take a look and decide if it’s worth it in the long run!
What is Artificial Grass?
What is Artificial Grass? Artificial grass, also known as astroturf or fake grass, is an artificial turf made to look and feel like natural grass. It is most commonly used in sports stadiums, golf courses, and residential lawns. While it does provide a durable and low-maintenance alternative to natural turf, there are several potential problems with artificial grass that may make it a less desirable choice.
The Advantages of Artificial Grass
Though there are some issues associated with installing artificial grass, it does have some advantages too. For one, it requires very little maintenance. All you need to keep it looking good year after year is a quick spritz of water every now and then. No need to mow, like you would with a regular lawn. It’s also very forgiving of heavy foot traffic, so it’s great for high-traffic areas like playgrounds, and it’s resistant to pests and weeds. Artificial grass is also highly customizable, so you can have it installed in any shape or size imaginable. So, despite its drawbacks, it still might be worth considering if you’re looking to create a stunning outdoor area.
No Watering
Many people are surprised to learn that artificial grass doesn’t require watering, but this can actually be a major problem. When there’s no access to water, the artificial grass can quickly become dry and brittle, leading to an uncomfortable, unsightly surface. Additionally, without water, the grass is unable to break down and filter organic matter, leading to a buildup of bacteria and algae that can create an unhealthy environment. If you choose to go the artificial grass route, make sure you have access to a reliable water source or you may find yourself dealing with a problem bigger than weeds.
No Fertilizing
Fertilizing artificial grass may seem like a good idea, but it can actually result in all sorts of unexpected problems. While it may look green and healthy on the surface, it can quickly lead to fungal growth, dead patches, and even a disagreeable smell. The problem is that fertilizing artificial grass isn’t a natural process, and it can contribute to an unnatural buildup of nutrients in the grass – which can turn your lawn into an unwelcome eyesore. Save yourself the trouble and skip the fertilizer altogether!
Safe for Pets and Children
While artificial turf is often touted as a safer alternative to natural grass, it is important to consider any potential problems that it may pose when used around the home. Thankfully, artificial grass does not pose any significant risks to children or pets, although there are a few minor considerations to keep in mind. Artificial grass may be slightly abrasive to the skin and can cause minor irritation, but it is generally deemed safe for most uses. Additionally, it may become hot in direct sunlight, so it is best to avoid playing on very hot days. Overall, with the proper precautions, artificial grass can be a perfectly safe and comfortable play surface for children and pets.
The Disadvantages of Artificial Grass
One of the main problems with artificial grass is that it can often feel artificial – it isn’t quite as soft and natural feeling as real grass. There is also the issue of heat retention – because the synthetic material absorbs and holds onto heat, playing on artificial grass can become uncomfortably warm, especially on sunny days. Additionally, artificial grass can also become worn quickly, as heavy foot traffic can cause it to fade and become patchy. Maintenance costs can also add up – artificial grass needs to be frequently cleaned and treated in order to keep it looking fresh and new.
High Installation Cost
If you’re considering artificial grass, you better hope that it doesn’t come with an extra high price tag! Installing artificial grass can be a huge financial investment, with some estimates putting the cost at over $15 per square foot. That’s enough to make anyone second guess whether or not artificial grass is really worth it! Other associated costs for installation can include grading, drainage, materials, and more. It can all seem a bit daunting, but with a bit of research and budgeting, you can make sure you get a good deal.
Heat Retention
Anyone who has ever gone barefoot on artificial grass in the summer knows that heat retention is one of the biggest problems with artificial grass. Not only does the surface get uncomfortably hot, but the heat radiates up from the ground and into the air, making the surrounding area stiflingly hot. Though this may be great for a sunbather, it isn’t so great for a lawn.
Toxic Chemicals Used During Installation
Did you know that those lushly green artificial lawns may come with a hidden, toxic price? Unfortunately, many artificial grass installation companies use toxic chemicals to construct and maintain the lawns – and these chemicals may be hazardous to you and your family’s health. These dangerous chemicals, including formaldehyde and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), can leach into the soil and be absorbed by plants, eventually making their way into the food chain. This means that those beautiful artificial lawns may come with a nasty side effect – potential health risks. Be sure to ask your artificial grass installation company about the chemicals they use before you make your purchase.
Difficult to Remove and Replace
If you thought installing artificial grass was easy, think again. Removing and replacing it is often a much bigger challenge. If you’re considering updating your lawn with artificial grass, be sure to factor in the removal and replacement process. It can be tricky, time-consuming, and expensive. And if you don’t do it properly, you may be left with an even bigger mess. So before you take the plunge, make sure you’re prepared for the full “grass cycle” of installation and removal.
Aesthetics
When it comes to the aesthetics of artificial grass, it can definitely be a hit-or-miss affair. On the one hand, it can add a bright and eye-catching appearance to your outdoor space. But on the other hand, it can seem too synthetic and artificial, making it a less than desirable choice for many aesthetics-conscious homeowners. And with the various textures, styles, and even colors of artificial grass, it can be hard to choose the right one for your outdoor space. Furthermore, artificial grass isn’t going to age like natural grass, meaning it won’t look any better or worse with time – it will simply remain the same. So, if you’re looking for a lawn that is aesthetically pleasing and may even improve over time, you might want to look elsewhere.
Conclusion
In conclusion, artificial grass has some great benefits but also some drawbacks. It eliminates the need for watering and fertilizing, is safe for pets and children, and is aesthetically pleasing. However, it does have a high initial installation cost, heat retention issues, toxic chemicals used during the installation process, and once installed it is difficult to remove and replace. Ultimately, it is a personal choice whether or not artificial grass is the right choice for you and your home. No matter what you decide, you can rest assured that artificial grass has plenty of benefits that make it an attractive option for many homeowners.
