Artificial grass may be worth it for homeowners who want a low-maintenance yard that stays green year-round. This is especially true in dry climates prone to drought conditions where it’s difficult to keep real grass alive. However, in wet climates, artificial grass may have drainage issues and might not be as worthy of an investment.
Yes, artificial grass is pet-friendly. When properly installed, your dog won’t be able to tear away at artificial turf, and your pet can use the grass for all bathroom needs—just like real grass. There are some brands that drain better than others and are made specifically with pet owners in mind, so be sure to research which option is the best for you and your pets.
You can save money installing artificial grass by doing it yourself. But remember to only DIY the installation if you know what you’re doing, because a poor installation can cost you a lot more in the long run. Especially if you run into problems with mold. You can also save by choosing a less expensive brand of turf, though it may not last as long. Be sure to weigh all the pros and cons before deciding which type to purchase.
Though artificial grass can get weeds, most artificial turf is far more weed-resistant than natural grass. If weeds start to pop up, you can remove them by hand or spray a weed killer and then use a rake to remove them once they’re dead. For extra help keeping weeds at bay, be sure to put down a layer of landscape fabric beneath the artificial turf or buy an artificial grass product with a non-perforated backing to help prevent weed growth.
Artificial grass can be laid on virtually any surface, including dirt, compacted soil, decking or concrete, so long as the surface is properly prepared with a subbase for proper drainage. The only exception is that you shouldn’t install artificial grass above real grass. If you need to remove a grass lawn first, consider hiring a landscaper to do the job, or rent a sod cutter and/or tiller from your local home improvement store to help remove the grass from the soil before laying the artificial turf.
To maintain your artificial turf, you’ll want to clean the surface regularly by blowing away dirt and debris with a leaf blower and spraying it down with a hose. Around once a month is fine if you don’t have pets or kids playing on the turf frequently. If you do have pets or kids, you may want to do this once per week. To keep the blades looking pristine, you can also rake or brush the turf every few weeks or whenever it starts to look dull.