Artificial turf has become a popular choice for many homeowners and sports facilities. You might wonder how long this synthetic grass will last before needing replacement. Most artificial turf lasts about 15 – 20 years with proper care and maintenance. The exact lifespan depends on factors like the quality of installation, amount of use, and upkeep.
Artificial Turf Toronto is a leading expert in synthetic lawns, noting that high-quality turf can even last up to 20 years.
This long-lasting nature makes it a smart investment for many property owners. While the upfront cost may be higher than natural grass, you’ll save money over time on water, mowing, and other lawn care expenses.
To get the most out of your artificial turf, you’ll want to take good care of it. Regular cleaning, brushing, and addressing any damage promptly can help extend its life. As your turf ages, you may notice signs that it’s time for replacement, such as fading, flattening, or thinning of the blades. Keeping an eye out for these signs will help you know when it’s time to consider a fresh installation.
Understanding Artificial Turf
Artificial turf is a surface made to look like natural grass. It’s used in sports fields, homes, and businesses. The materials and quality of artificial turf affect how long it lasts.
Materials and Manufacturing
Artificial turf is made of synthetic fibres that look like grass blades. These fibres are usually made of nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene. The fibres are attached to a backing material, often made of polyurethane or latex.
Manufacturers add infill between the fibres. This can be rubber, sand, or a mix of both. The infill helps the turf stand up and feel softer. Some newer types of turf don’t need infill.
The manufacturing process involves several steps:
- Making the fibres
- Creating the backing
- Tufting the fibres into the backing
- Adding the infill
Quality and Types
The quality of artificial turf can vary a lot. Higher-quality turf lasts longer and looks more real. It also feels better to walk on.
There are many types of artificial turf:
- Sports turf for fields and courts
- Landscape turf for yards and parks
- Pet turf that’s easy to clean
- Putting green turf for golf practice
Each type has different features. Sports turf is made to handle lots of wear. Landscape turf often looks more like real grass. Pet turf has better drainage for easy cleaning.
When you choose artificial turf, think about how you’ll use it. High-quality turf costs more but lasts longer. Cheaper turf might need to be replaced sooner.
Installation and Initial Care
Proper installation and care are crucial for the longevity of artificial turf. The right techniques and materials ensure your new lawn looks great and performs well for years to come.
Proper Installation
To install artificial turf, start by removing existing grass and levelling the ground. Add a layer of crushed stone for drainage. Lay a weed barrier fabric to prevent growth underneath. Roll out the turf, cutting it to fit your space. Secure the edges with landscaping nails or adhesive.
Join seams carefully using special tape and glue. Trim any excess turf for a neat finish. Brush the fibres to make them stand upright. This process takes time and skill, so you may want to hire pros for the best results.
Infill Materials
Infill is crucial for artificial turf. It helps the grass blades stand up and adds weight to keep the turf in place. Common infill options include:
- Sand: Affordable and helps with drainage
- Crumb rubber: Made from recycled tires, offers good cushioning
- Acrylic coated sand: Resists bacteria growth
- Cork: Eco-friendly and stays cool in hot weather
Spread the infill evenly across the turf. Use a power broom to work it into the fibres. The right amount of infill keeps your turf looking fresh and feeling soft underfoot. It also helps protect the backing from UV damage.
Maintenance for Longevity
Proper care keeps artificial turf looking great for years. Regular cleaning, damage prevention, and infill management are key to extending its life.
Regular Cleaning
Clean your turf often to keep it in top shape. Use a leaf blower or rake to remove loose debris like leaves and twigs. For stuck-on dirt, use a stiff brush or power broom to scrub the surface. This stops matting and helps water drain.
Rinse your turf with water to wash away dust and pollen. For tough stains, use mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can harm the fibres. Blot spills quickly to prevent staining.
In high-traffic areas, clean more often. This stops dirt from getting packed down. A clean surface also helps stop mould and bacteria growth.
Preventing and Repairing Damage
Check your turf for signs of wear and tear. Look for torn seams, loose edges, or worn spots. Fix small issues fast to stop them from getting worse.
Don’t let heavy items sit on the turf for long. They can crush the fibres and leave marks. Use protective mats under furniture legs.
Keep sharp objects away from the surface. They can cut or tear the turf. If you see damage, patch it right away.
Watch out for heat damage. Don’t use grills or fire pits on the turf. Reflected sunlight from windows can also melt the fibres.
Optimizing Infill Levels
Check infill levels often, especially in high-traffic spots. The right amount of infill keeps fibres upright and adds cushioning.
Add more infill if you see bare spots or if the turf feels hard. Spread it evenly with a brush or rake. Too little infill can lead to matting and wear.
After heavy rain, check that the infill hasn’t washed away. Rake it back into place if needed. This helps maintain good drainage.
In dry weather, water your turf lightly. This settles the infill and cools the surface. It also helps stop static build-up.
Recognizing Signs of Wear and Tear
Artificial turf can show several signs that it’s time for replacement. Watch for changes in appearance, texture, and performance as your turf ages.
Indicators for Replacement
Look for flattened or matted areas where the turf blades no longer spring back up. This often happens in high-traffic spots. Check for worn or bare patches, especially in places that get lots of use. Faded colour is another red flag – if your once-vibrant green turf looks dull or greyish, it may be past its prime.
Pay attention to how the turf feels underfoot. If it’s less springy or cushioned than before, the infill may be compacted or the backing damaged. Bad odours can signal trapped moisture or bacteria growth in old turf.
Drainage issues are a big concern. If you notice puddles forming after rain, the turf may no longer be draining properly. This can lead to slippery surfaces and mould growth.
Effects of Weather and Usage
Sun exposure takes a toll on artificial turf over time. UV rays can break down the fibres, making them brittle and more likely to break. In areas with intense heat, the turf may even melt or warp in extreme cases.
Heavy foot traffic wears down turf faster, especially in spots like walkways or play areas. The constant pressure flattens fibres and can cause the backing to break down. Sports fields face extra stress from cleats and sliding.
Harsh weather like hail, heavy rain, or freeze-thaw cycles can damage turf fibres and affect drainage. Snow removal in winter can also cause wear if not done carefully.
Your turf’s durability depends on its quality and how well you’ve maintained it. Even with good care, most artificial turf lasts about 8-15 years before needing replacement.
Cost and Environmental Considerations
Artificial turf has both financial and ecological impacts to weigh. The upfront costs can be high, but long-term savings may offset this. Environmental factors like disposal and water use also need careful thought.
Life Cycle Cost Analysis
A full turf field can cost $360,000 to $620,000 to install. While pricey upfront, artificial grass can save money over time. You won’t need to mow, water, or fertilize it regularly. This cuts down on labour and supply costs.
Artificial turf lasts 15-20 years on average. Natural grass fields need frequent upkeep. Over a decade, the costs may even out. But artificial turf will need full replacement eventually.
Some hidden costs exist too. You might need to water artificial turf on hot days to cool it down. Special cleaning may be needed at times. Factor these in when budgeting long-term.
Artificial Turf vs. Natural Grass
Artificial turf needs less water than natural grass. This can save a lot in dry areas. But it’s not water-free. You’ll still use some for cleaning and cooling.
Natural grass helps the environment more. It absorbs carbon dioxide and cools the air. Artificial turf can get very hot on sunny days. This creates “heat islands” in cities.
Grass needs fertilizers and pesticides. These can harm local ecosystems. Artificial turf doesn’t need these chemicals. But it may leach its own harmful substances over time.
Disposal and Recycling
Getting rid of old artificial turf is tricky. Most end up in landfills. A full-size field creates tons of waste. This is a big problem as more fields need replacement.
Recycling options are limited right now. Some companies are working on solutions. But it’s still hard to recycle all parts of artificial turf.
Natural grass is fully biodegradable. When you replace it, it doesn’t create lasting waste. This is a big eco-friendly point in its favour.
For homeowners, disposal is easier. You’ll have less turf to get rid of. But check local rules. Some areas have special disposal methods for artificial grass.