A symbol of pride for many homeowners is having a perfect lawn. Nevertheless, getting that lush green carpet can be a fight against weeds, drought and demanding maintenance routines. Artificial grass Brisbane has come as a tempting alternative with its evergreen and low- upkeep solution. However, before throwing away your mower and embracing the fake, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of artificial grass.
Here at Artificial Grass Brisbane, we have shared some pros and cons that might help you to make an informed decision for your landscape and gardening.
Pros of installing artificial grass
- Little Maintenance: This is arguably one of the chief attractions. Artificial grass saves you time that would have been used to mow, weed, water, fertilize and reseed lawns for busy homeowners while water conservation takes place in areas where droughts are prevalent.
- Permanently Perfect throughout the Year: Unlike natural grass which becomes patchy in summer and brown during winter; artificial grass remains constantly green all year round – no more mud patches or bare spots ideal for areas with unpredictable weather.
- Durable: The strength of artificial grass makes it suitable for applications such as children’s play areas or patios which often experience heavy footfalls. It also does not fade due to UV light or cold temperatures.
- Children & Pets Safe: Artificial turf provides a soft surface that is suitable for playing on meaning it is good for children. Since pesticides are not needed for this type of lawn care there will be absolutely safe surroundings either to pets or kids.
- Allergy-Free: For those who have allergies from grasses then synthetic turfs might be their game changer since pollen grains and dust mites irritates them most.
- Enhanced Drainage: Most often installed over gravel bases, artificial lawns allow water to drain well into the surface thus preventing puddles from forming especially when it rains heavily.
Cons of installing artificial grass
- High Initial Cost: Comparatively speaking upfront costs associated with installing an artificial lawn can much outweigh growing a plain old traditional one. Depending on quality as well as size this price varies greatly.
- Heat Retention: Especially in very hot region’s synthetic lawns can absorb and hold on to a lot of heat. This makes the surface hot to walk on in summer. Special infill materials may be used to address this issue.
- Environmental Impact: Artificial turf is made of non-degradable substances such as nylon or polyethylene most times. It has been a concern how it affects the environment when it reaches its end life.
- Aesthetics: While there are some synthetic grasses that appear quite realistic, others look obviously fake and therefore do not add up to the natural beauty of your outdoor space.
- However, Low Maintenance Needs: Artificial grass does not need mowing however occasional cleaning for debris removal and prevention of mold growth is necessary. Thus brushing and hosing it down should be done regularly.
- Potential for Off-Gassing: Some types of artificial grass, particularly newer installations, may emit VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) during hot weather which are detrimental to health. The risk can however be minimized by going for low-VOC varieties.
How to Determine the best choice?
Your decision concerning using synthetic turf depends on what you value most about your yard and how you live your life. These factors include:
- Climate: In areas where droughts occur frequently or where there isn’t enough sunlight for a lawn made from natural grass, then artificial turf could fit well.
- Lifestyle: If you have little time available for yard work as a homeowner with other responsibilities, then you may benefit from using less demanding fake lawns.
- Budgetary constraints: The amount that one will have to spend at first could be much due to this reason alone. The initial investment should be considered vis-à-vis long-term savings in water consumption and maintenance costs.
- Personal preference: Is having an ecosystem free garden important or would you prefer always green, low maintenance alternative?
Final thoughts
A convenient and low-maintenance alternative to a traditional lawn is artificial grass. However, it does have its own disadvantages. Consider the pros and cons before switching depending on your climate, lifestyle and budget for this reason; you need to think about carefully all of these things. Artificial grass Brisbane can be an excellent way of achieving a stunning outdoor area if you choose right.