You can have a green lawn all year long, hassle-free. A synthetic turf is ideal for a shady, inhospitable climate. However, it does have its drawbacks. For one, it is an eyesore. The dreaded brown patch can be a stubborn eye sore. Besides, families with pets and children need a lawn that doesn’t get dirty or muddy. Secondly, Artificial Grass is springy and durable, unlike natural grass.
Face weight
A synthetic turf product’s face weight refers to how much yarn the grass contains. This number is quoted in ounces per square yard and is a function of several factors, including the yarn’s density, pile height, and decitex, or the thickness and width of individual fibers. Higher face weights are better for durability, while lower face weights are better for aesthetics. Face weights vary depending on pile height, stitch rate, and thickness of the fiber.
The face weight of artificial grass refers to the weight of the fabric. The higher the number, the higher the quality of the product. A lower number indicates a lighter, more affordable grass. A higher number is better for heavy foot traffic, as a lower number would make it more prone to ripping and tearing. But do keep in mind that face weight does not include the backing material. To get an accurate picture of an artificial grass’s weight, check out the product’s manufacturer’s website.
The higher the face weight, the higher the durability and quality. Generally, the higher the face weight, the more materials will be use to create the turf. Be aware, though, that some suppliers exaggerate this number on quotation sheets. Another factor that will affect face weight is the gauge, or the distance between adjacent lines. In the case of artificial grass, a common gauge is 3/8 inch and 3/4 inch. A stitch rate of 16 cm equals 160 stitches per 100cm.
When selecting a fake grass for your home or business, you should consider the face weight before purchasing it. The face weight is a crucial factor in choosing an artificial turf, as it determines the appearance, durability, and overall cost. A higher face weight implies a denser turf, which is better for heavy foot traffic and more resistant to wear and tear. However, it also means a higher initial financial investment but less maintenance. Low face weight artificial turf can lead to severe matting and damage over time.
Material
The material for artificial grass consists of different polymers that have been sprinkled with an infill of sand or crumb rubber. Afterwards, the material is layered with drainage mats and shock pads. While these materials are compatible, they are not easily separated. So, to recycle the material, separating sand and crumb rubber is not an easy task. Fortunately, there are some techniques that can make the task easier for you.
Plastics have a layer of polyethylene. Anything that needs to be waterproof has some kind of polyethylene. The same is true for artificial grass blades. This material is tough, durable, and impervious to rain. It also does not fade easily from UV light. Another advantage of polyethylene is that it can be recycled. Those are the two main types of artificial grass materials. However, a latex coating is the best choice in most cases.
Another option for a synthetic lawn is wood. Wood is an excellent substrate, but requires cleaning and sealing. It also has the advantage of allowing water to drain well. However, this option requires a man-made drainage system. Because of this, many manufacturers use concrete as a base material for their artificial grass. This type of material is a popular choice in many places. If you choose to use wood as a substrate, make sure to choose a PU backing.
Polypropylene is another popular choice for artificial grass. Its high melting point makes it a popular choice. Although polypropylene is cheaper than polypropylene, it has a naturally shiny surface. Its reflective properties also make it slippery underfoot. Polyethylene is another common artificial grass plastic, but costs more than polypropylene. This synthetic material is a good compromise between elasticity and softness. The softer fiber is less resilient, which is why it is an ideal option for medium-to-high-use areas.
Durability
Artificial grass’s durability is dependent on multiple factors. Its quality, sturdiness, and durability will all determine its lifespan. High-quality fibers, for example, are resistant to moisture, fading, and temperature fluctuations. Additionally, a higher-quality infill will also ensure the longevity of your artificial grass installation. A good quality infill will provide your artificial grass with years of service, despite the harsh weather conditions in which it is installed.
The life expectancy of high-quality artificial grass can range anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Depending on the location and traffic, a quality turf may even last longer than natural grass. In addition, synthetic turf is highly resistant to wear and tear and can withstand high levels of foot traffic. It is also easy to maintain, and periodic upkeep can extend the life of your turf considerably. Its longevity is a great advantage if you have a high-traffic area and want to be sure it will last.
Compared to natural grass, artificial turf requires less maintenance. Still, some routine cleaning and maintenance is required to ensure long-term performance. Pet waste, organic produce, and general foreign objects should be cleaned up promptly. Because natural grass can have dips and humps, it can potentially injure kids who fall onto it. However, an artificial lawn’s surface will remain level and flat, preventing injuries from falls as small as 5 feet.
While hardscaping is considered the most sustainable choice for an outdoor area, there are also some drawbacks to both. Both have their advantages and disadvantages and depend on site conditions, intended use, and budget. In the end, the decision is ultimately up to you. Make sure you do your research before making a final decision. Regardless of the material you choose, make sure to choose a high-quality product. If possible, avoid any unnecessary or excessively costly mistakes.
Cost
The installation of artificial grass requires a skilled professional. This type of flooring is usually installed by hiring a landscaper or contractor. Labor costs for installing artificial grass range from $2.25 to $2.75 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation and the type of turf. This work requires removing old sod, weeds and concrete. The installation may also require additional prep work, such as clearing or excavating a site.
If you want to save money, you can install it yourself. You can do this job yourself if you have time and reasonable skills and you will need a base layer of gravel, weed-barrier fabric and edging material. You can also cut rectangular rolls of artificial grass to fit your space and you may also need to buy a turf cutting machine and you may also decide to rent or purchase an artificial grass installation kit. Listed below are some of the things you need to consider when purchasing artificial grass.
The price of polyethylene artificial turf is generally between $2.50 and $4 per square foot. Polyethylene artificial turf is less durable than nylon but is significantly cheaper. It is available in 15-foot widths. It will cost you between $2 and $4 per square foot. Depending on the style of grass you choose, the cost will vary. Whether you install polyethylene artificial grass will depend on the landscaping and weather conditions in your area. But if you want to save money, polyethylene is your best option.
The final cost of installing synthetic grass varies greatly. You can save money by preparing the site before installation, which reduces labor costs. However, if you plan to place the artificial grass around a garden feature or a rock wall, you may want to consider a premium version instead of a low-cost one. You may need to hire a landscaper to prepare the site for the installation. If your property is very hilly or has other difficult terrain, it might be a good idea to go for a premium option.
Installation
If you’ve decide to install artificial grass in your garden, you need to prepare your lawn properly before you begin installing the artificial turf. To prevent uneven surfaces, you should thoroughly level the area. You should also remove all large debris and consider watering the area. Unlike natural grass, artificial grass does not need to be mowed or watered. It’s low maintenance and does not support weeds. You can water it regularly to keep it looking its best, and weeds cannot grow through it once installed properly.
While the costs for labor and materials can vary greatly, you should expect to pay about $4.50 to $6.00 per square foot for a high-quality installation team. The most important factor to consider is the level of professionalism and expertise of the team of laborers. If they’re cheap, they’re probably scams. Look for a company with a proven track record and high customer satisfaction. This way, you can plan your budget accordingly and select the best team of installers to complete your project.
Once the base is ready, lay out the artificial grass pieces. You’ll need a sod cutter, a shovel, and a pick axe. Be sure to remove all large rocks and tree roots. Next, prepare the base area by layering three or four inches of 3/8″ crushed stone (Class 2 Road Base or Decomposed granite). The base material must be level, firm, and absorb surface water quickly. Then, use landscape staples to secure the wire. Finally, install treat lumber along the perimeter of the project area.
Artificial grass is best installed on a level surface that can support it. If it’s install on a concrete slab, you’ll need to install a drainage base underneath. Depending on the location, you can use a range of base materials. Outside, concrete, asphalt, and tarmac are all good options. Depending on the location, High quality artificial grass may be install on a concrete slab or asphalt. For interior installation, you should choose a natural material, such as sand, if it’s not completely level.
