Wondering about the difference between turf and artificial grass? You’re not alone. Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same thing.
Artificial turf is mainly used for sports fields, while artificial grass is designed for home landscaping.
Artificial Turf Toronto wants you to know that both options offer a low-maintenance alternative to natural grass. Turf is made to be tough and can handle lots of wear and tear. It’s shorter and more durable than artificial grass. On the other hand, artificial grass looks and feels more like real grass. It’s softer and has longer blades, making it perfect for your backyard or front lawn.
When you’re thinking about which one to choose, consider how you’ll use the space. If you need a sturdy surface for sports or heavy foot traffic, turf might be your best bet. But if you want a lush, green lawn without the upkeep of natural grass, artificial grass could be the way to go.
Defining Turf and Artificial Grass
Turf and artificial grass are two different types of synthetic lawn products. They both aim to mimic real grass but have distinct features and uses.
Characteristics of Turf
Turf is a shorter, tougher synthetic grass option. It’s made from materials like polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon. The grass-like strands in turf are usually 0.6 to 1.5 inches long. This makes it ideal for sports fields and high-traffic areas.
Turf is designed to be durable and can withstand heavy use. It often comes in a light green shade that looks uniform across the surface. The texture of turf is rougher compared to artificial grass. This can lead to more friction when you play or move on it.
The turf needs regular cleaning to remove debris. You’ll also need to brush it to keep the fibres upright. Over time, you might have to add more infill material to maintain its performance.
Understanding Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is designed to look and feel more like natural grass. It has longer blades, usually 1.5 to 3 inches in length. This gives it a softer, more realistic appearance. You can find artificial grass in various shades of green to match real grass types.
The materials used in artificial grass are similar to turf but are often of higher quality. This makes it softer to walk, run, or sit on. Artificial grass is a good choice for home lawns, playgrounds, and areas where comfort is important.
You’ll need to clean artificial grass regularly to keep it looking good. Brushing helps maintain its upright shape. You might also need to hose it down sometimes to prevent odours. With proper care, artificial grass can last 15 to 20 years.
Comparing Costs and Installation
Artificial grass and turf have different price tags and installation needs. The choice between them affects your wallet both now and later.
Upfront Cost and Installation
Artificial grass costs more upfront than natural turf. You’ll spend about $8 to $17 per square foot for artificial grass, including installation. Turf ranges from $6 to $19 per square foot, installed. The exact price depends on the brand and quality you pick.
Installing artificial grass takes more work. You need to prep the ground, add a base layer, and roll out the fake grass. This process can bump up your costs.
For a small 5,000-square-foot lawn, artificial grass might cost $40,000 to $85,000. Natural turf would be much cheaper to start.
Long-Term Financial Considerations
Over time, artificial grass can save you money. You won’t need to water, mow, or fertilize it. This cuts down on your water bills and maintenance costs.
Natural turf needs ongoing care. You’ll spend money on:
- Water
- Fertilizer
- Lawn mower fuel
- Pest control
Artificial grass lasts 15 to 25 years with proper care. You’ll need to replace it after that. Natural turf can last forever if you take good care of it.
Think about your budget and how long you plan to stay in your home. This will help you decide which option makes more sense for you.
Maintenance and Durability
Artificial grass and turf have different needs when it comes to upkeep and longevity. Both options require less work than natural grass but still need some care to stay in good shape.
Regular Maintenance Needs
Artificial grass and turf don’t need mowing, watering, or fertilizing like real grass. This saves you time and money. To keep them clean:
- Brush the blades weekly to stop them from flattening
- Remove leaves and debris with a leaf blower or rake
- Rinse with water to wash away dust and dirt
For artificial grass, you might need to top up the infill now and then. Turf often doesn’t use infill, so it’s one less thing to worry about.
Wear and Tear Resilience
Both artificial grass and turf can last 15 to 20 years with proper care. They stand up well to heavy use, but they’re not indestructible.
Turf is made to handle lots of foot traffic and sports. It’s tougher and can take more abuse. Artificial grass is softer and might show signs of wear sooner in high-traffic areas.
To help them last longer:
- Rotate heavy items like furniture or play equipment
- Fix any tears or holes right away
- Use proper footwear to avoid damage
Remember, extreme heat can affect both surfaces. They might get hot to touch on sunny days.
Environmental Impact and Usage
Artificial grass and turf have different effects on the environment and suit various uses. Their water needs and durability in different weather conditions vary. They also have distinct applications for sports fields and homes.
Water Conservation and Weather Resistance
Artificial grass helps save water. You don’t need to water it like real grass. This can cut your water use a lot. In dry areas, this is a big plus. Fake grass stays green even in droughts.
Artificial turf handles weather well too. Rain drains through it quickly. Snow and ice don’t hurt it. But a very hot sun can make it heat up more than real grass.
Some people worry about what happens to old artificial grass. It can be hard to recycle. This is something to think about for the long term.
Applicability for Sports and Residential Use
Sports fields often use artificial turf. It can handle lots of use without getting muddy or worn out. Players can use it in most weather. But it can get very hot on sunny days. This might not be good for players.
For homes, artificial grass is popular too. It looks neat all year round. You don’t need to mow it or use weed killers. This saves time and is better for the environment.
But some people prefer the feel of real grass. Artificial grass might not be as soft for kids to play on. It also doesn’t help cool the air like real plants do.
Aesthetics and User Experience
Turf and artificial grass differ in how they look and feel. These differences affect your experience when using them.
Appearance and Feel
Artificial grass aims to look more natural. It has longer blades, usually 1.5 to 3 inches tall. The colour is often a mix of green shades to seem more lifelike. Turf has shorter blades, about 0.6 to 1.5 inches tall. It tends to look more uniform in colour.
When you walk on artificial grass, it feels softer under your feet. The longer blades give it a more cushioned feel. The turf feels firmer and flatter. It’s made to be tough for sports use.
Functional Benefits for End-Users
Artificial grass works well for home lawns and parks. Its softer feel makes it nice for sitting or lying on. Kids and pets can play on it comfortably. It stays green all year without watering or mowing.
Turf is better for sports fields. Its firm, flat surface helps balls roll smoothly. Players can run and change direction quickly on it. Turf dries faster after rain, so games can start sooner. It stands up to heavy use without getting muddy or worn down.
Advanced Considerations for Selection
Choosing between turf types involves looking at factors like climate, use, and durability. The right pick can make a big difference in how well your artificial surface works over time.
Factors in Choosing Between Turf Types
When picking turf, think about who will use it and how often. For homes with kids and pets, softer grass with longer blades works well. It feels nice to walk on and can handle rough play. Sports fields need tougher turf with shorter blades. This helps balls roll smoothly and players run safely.
For busy areas like shops or schools, pick turf that can take lots of foot traffic. Some types have special backings that help them last longer. If you live somewhere hot, look for turf that won’t get too warm in the sun. Some brands use cool-touch fibres to help with this.
Longevity and Adaptation to Climate
Your local weather plays a big role in how long turf lasts. In places with lots of rain, good drainage is key. Look for turf with holes in the backing to let water flow through. For snowy areas, pick turf that can handle being shovelled without damage.
UV-resistant turf is a must in sunny spots to stop fading. Some types even have special coatings to fight off mould in damp climates. High-quality turf can last 15-20 years with good care. But in tough weather, it might need to be replaced sooner.
To help your turf last, brush it now and then to keep the blades up. Clean up spills fast, and use a leaf blower to clear off dirt and leaves. With the right care, your turf can look great for years.