What Is Synthetic Grass (& Should You Install It)?

If you’ve found yourself eyeing off your neighbour’s lush, green lawn with mixed feelings of envy and curiosity, it’s probably synthetic grass, the secret to a maintenance-free, always perfect lawn.

Luckily, you can achieve the same great look by installing artificial grass in your yards.

But if you’re not sure how to go about it or what fake grass even is, this article is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

So, let’s jump in. 

What Is Artificial Grass?

Synthetic grass, commonly referred to as artificial grass, is a surface created from synthetic fibres to mimic the natural appearance and texture of a real lawn. 

Historically, artificial turfs were introduced to spruce up spaces that required a lush aesthetic but where natural vegetation would be hard-pressed to thrive. These included sports fields with frequent high-impact events, requiring a durable and easily maintained surface. 

Over time, synthetic grass has become common in residential environments, proving especially popular in regions of Australia where the climate makes tending to a lawn much harder.

Artificial grass portrays natural grass’s leafy look and feel but with less maintenance. Unlike its natural counterpart, it doesn’t need regular mowing, watering, or fertilising to keep it looking green and healthy. 

This makes it particularly attractive for homeowners who desire an aesthetically pleasing lawn without the labour-intensive, time-consuming maintenance that comes with natural turf.

Benefits of Synthetic Turf for Australian Home Owners

Did you know over 80% of Australian homeowners prefer synthetic grasses over real grass due to the very low maintenance needed?

Synthetic grass offers many benefits to homeowners. Unlike natural grass, it is tailored specifically to the contemporary needs and challenges of the Australian climate and lifestyle.

It’s also a practical and aesthetically pleasing alternative to conventional grass, offering several environmental benefits, health perks, and economic advantages. 

Sustainability

From an environmental perspective, synthetic grass helps a lot with water conservation, requiring only occasional rinsing compared to the daily watering natural grass needs. 

This makes it a potent weapon against drought, especially in arid parts of Australia. It also minimises our reliance on harmful chemical products such as fertilisers, herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides, which contribute to soil and water pollution. Most of this is because of its sand infill material, which allows it to remain in shape without so much maintenance.

Health and Safety

On the health front, artificial lawns can help asthmatics and allergy sufferers, reducing triggering factors commonly found in natural grass fields. It’s also safer for pets and children, as it provides a rugged surface that resists wear and tear, prevents injuries from falls, and eliminates risks from weed and bug infiltration. 

Economics 

From an economic standpoint, homeowners like artificial lawn because its durability and ease of maintenance are hugely appealing. As we noted earlier, you can say goodbye to regular mowing, weeding, reseeding, and utility bills.

Thanks to its shade resistance, synthetic grass also maintains its lush, green appearance year-round, even in the shadiest corners of the garden. This long-lasting value and cost-effectiveness can greatly enhance property value, making artificial grass a wise investment for the future. This is even more the case when schools or recreational facilities use synthetic turf fields for their high foot traffic grounds. 

Types of Synthetic Grass for Your Home

While most people think all synthetic grass is the same, there’s a wide array of options available tailored to various specific needs and preferences. 

The texture is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing synthetic grass instead of natural lawn varieties. Some varieties offer a soft, lush feel underfoot, similar to natural grass. These types of synthetic grass are primarily designed to replicate the appearance and texture of real turf, making them great choices for areas where children or pets might play. 

On the other end of the spectrum, more durable, hard-wearing types of synthetic lawn are designed for heavy foot traffic or outdoor sports like soccer. These grasses are built to withstand regular use without losing their aesthetic appeal. They’re great for areas like patios, driveways, or even at-home sports fields like a backyard putting green.

Moreover, the height and density of the synthetic grass products can also vary quite a lot. Shorter, denser grass might be ideal for putting green or other sports applications, but longer, less dense grass might work well for lawns or gardens. 

Lastly, consider factors like UV resistance and drainage capabilities when choosing a synthetic grass type for your home. High-quality synthetic grass is typically UV-protected to maintain its colour, and good drainage is crucial to prevent water logging during heavy rain. 

Key Takeaways

• Synthetic grass, also known as artificial turf, is a versatile landscaping solution, particularly suited to the Australian climate.
• Investing in synthetic grass can result in long-term savings, particularly with regards to regular maintenance costs associated with natural grass.
• Artificial turf aids in water conservation, a critical factor in many parts of Australia due to periodic droughts and water restrictions.
• Despite its high durability, synthetic grass is still susceptible to certain types of damage and requires occasional repairs.
• Synthetic grass comes in various types and styles to meet different landscaping needs and design challenges.
• One of the main advantages of synthetic grass is its ease of maintenance when compared to traditional lawns.
• Though there are ongoing debates regarding potential health risks associated with the use of synthetic grass, many homeowners find its benefits outweigh the concerns.
• While it is a sustainable and recyclable option, the manufacturing process of synthetic turf still raises environmental concerns.

Ready to install synthetic grass in your Sydney home? Get a free quote from Trinity Landscape and Sports now.