With synthetic turf and artificial grass popping up everywhere in our daily lives, from rooftop gardens and indoor playing areas to bedroom floors as carpeting, now’s the time to do some fact checks. What, exactly, are the goods on artificial turf? How advantageous is it, when compared to the real thing? These are real questions that need answering, and so here are a few of the benefits, or, well, “goods”, of installing artificial turf in your lawns, gardens and other green spaces.

No watering

This one is a no-brainer, but let us remind you of the benefits of having a water-less lawn. Sounds like a miracle, doesn’t it? And it is- for the earth and for you! Natural lawns are thirsty: they can consume up to a million gallons of water in a single year. This is an environmental nightmare, especially in drought-prone areas. Artificial turf helps you conserve water; while saving the planet, you also save a lot of time and money. It’s win-win.

No weeding, fertilizing or pests

Another no-brainer, but hear us out. Artificial turf is made up of several layers, all of which are resistant to weeds, gophers, moles and bugs alike. The synthetic blades and synthetic blades infill discourage tics, fleas and other bug-shaped nuisances from roosting in your lawn, while also limiting bacterial growth. Moreover, creatures that are fond of tunneling underground will be able to do absolutely no damage to your lawn. A lot of money, time and effort will thus be saved.

Durability

This one is a little more complicated. One of the FAQs about synthetic turf is the question of longevity- how long can such a lawn last, compared to natural grass areas? Well, an artificial turf lawn- or playground, garden or any such area- typically lasts from 8 to 10 years, with a warranty period that lasts as long. Re-installation can be done afterwards, with no extra hassle. Moreover, the blades are made of polyethylene fibers that are resilient to stress and damage, and able to maintain their upright aesthetic even under the most strenuous of conditions. So don’t worry: the ugly discolored patches and brownish bits that accompany a damaged lawn now will then become merely terrible memories.

Safety

With all of these extra benefits, how could the most essential one not be mentioned? Artificial turf is extremely safe. The materials used to manufacture artificial grass are non-toxic, so kids and pets can play on it to their hearts’ content. The soft backing layers also make it a much more suitable surface for running than concrete. As technology improves, surface temperatures decrease and anti-microbial protection increases, so sweaty evenings filled with fun and laughter can continue. Mother Earth is also thankful: with the absence of chemicals from fertilizers, pesticides, weed-killers and other such implements, your grass is completely eco-friendly. These hazardous substances can no longer percolate through into the groundwater table and pollute it, or leach nutrients from the soil, leaving it infertile. It’s wholesome harmony all ‘round.

Attractiveness

And last but certainly not least, artificial turf is quite shockingly good looking. No, really. It makes natural grass blush, it’s so lush and green and realistic-looking and more real feeling. Its ability to remain bright green in the middle of a freezing winter and scorching summer is alluring; it looks just as uplifting as real grass when it blows about in the gentle spring breeze; and is practically Instagram-worthy littered with brilliant orange leaves in the fall. In short, your lawn stays beautiful all year round, regardless of weather.

Are you looking for the Bad and the Ugly Side? Well, there aren’t any bad and ugly sides of these beautiful turfs. Just good!