Before you purchase artificial grass consider the following:
YOUR BUDGET
Artificial grass is very reasonably priced and is cost-effective whatever you buy, but, as mentioned earlier, you should always buy the best quality that you can.
TRAFFIC/USAGE
Usage is an important consideration for sure. For some customers, their artificial grass is for aesthetic purposes and is rarely walked on. For others, the grass gets heavy use every day. Most folks are somewhere in between. Whether your synthetic grass is installed in your residence or business, knowing foot traffic levels is imperative in increasing the life expectancy of your turf lawn! Choosing a grass that can handle the appropriate amount of foot traffic is key to ensuring you get the most enjoyment and longest life from your artificial grass installation.
KID & PET FRIENDLY
You will want your grass to be pet or child-friendly if you have a family and you will need to think about the quality of grass, dependent on the traffic that is expected. Having children running around or playing would require artificial turf with a higher face weight.
PRODUCT QUALITY
Good quality synthetic grass will be made of polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene yarns or a mixture of all three. Furthermore, you will find quality turf products to be evenly backed, color consistent and contain well stitched tufts. Synthetic grass is a game where quality products win every time. Quality turf will be more expensive than the others, but since this is going to be a long-term investment, you’ll be better off purchasing the best. Don’t be afraid to ask for samples, either, especially if you are purchasing online. You want to experience the product first hand before setting up an installation. This is a product you have to see and touch before making a purchase decision.
PILE HEIGHT
Pile height refers to the length of the grass blades from above the backing to the tip. While it might be tempting to select a long blade, be careful. They do create a full and lush look in the beginning. However, over time they will bend over, causing your yard to look flat. To stand it up again will require a lot of time sweeping with a broom. To keep your lawn looking natural, go for a pile height of 30-37 mm. If you intend to place furniture on the turf, go for a shorter pile height as it will offer better sustainability. You will still have to stand the blades up with a broom every now and then, but not nearly as often as you would with a larger pile height.
WEIGHT & DENSITY
When choosing synthetic grass, density refers to the number of synthetic yarns per square foot of turf. Synthetic grass with a higher turf density is more durable. They are more expensive too. Of course, this is of no consequence during a traditional install. However, if you are installing a green space on a patio for a high rise condo, or roof top bar for instance, you will need to check the load bearing of the structure to make sure you can install that particular type of synthetic grass.
BACKING & INFILL
When choosing synthetic grass, infill types vary. Most often, sand and gravel are used as part of the install process. There are other types of infill too. The purpose is to keep your lawn springy and resilient. As for synthetic grass backing, polyurethane or latex are used. Poly backed synthetic grass does not expand and contract; latex does. If you are installing your turf in an area known for extreme heat, go with a polyurethane backed product. This will ensure your lawn does not shrink or expand, causing bubbles, ripples and tears.
COLOR
This is an important one. It can be tempting to choose a grass that looks really green, however, take caution. Once installed, it will stick out like a sore thumb. Most of those super green grass products are cheap too. When choosing synthetic grass, it is best to choose a product that has varying shades of green. Olive green, dark green and lime green mixed together will offer a more lush and natural look. Also, look for grass that is not completely uniform. This will add to curb appeal. You may want to look for a product that contains a few brown flecks too. This will make your yard look even more natural and full.
MAINTENANCE
The simple rule of thumb is, the more costly the grass, the less you will have to spend to maintain it. Remember that when making your selection. Also, consider other factors too. For instance, if you live in an area where weather could be a factor, that is an important consideration. Also, what does your canopy look like? If you have potential for limbs and other debris to fall on your lawn often, factor that into your decision. Not only will those items need to be removed, your turf will need to be durable to handle it. Read our guide on care & maintenance.
WARRANY
One way to know if you’re getting top-quality artificial grass is to read the warranty. With our 15 year warranty, you can have the confidence to know your grass will be an investment that will last. Get more information on our 15 year warranty.
