Back when AstroTurf was first invented we didn’t make distinctions like this, because there was just one product. And, frankly, not a very good one at that. AstroTurf was green – though not a shade normally associated with living grass. And it had a nappy texture that no one mistook for the real thing. Advances in science and technology have revolutionized the synthetic grass industry. We now have myriad different products, each one specifically designed for a different grassy purpose. With that, we can distinguish between artificial turf for sports and artificial grass for lawns and landscaping. What does that mean for you? Artificial turf designed for sports is tough, tough, tough. It has to be, to withstand the volume of running feet, cleats, and types of grinding plant-and-turn moves players make during a hectic game. It is also far safer than natural grass, reducing injuries under any conditions and also allowing play to continue when conditions are wet. When we talk about sports and turf, we think about teams of players and expansive play fields. However, there are styles of artificial turf that are ideal for “smaller” sports that are enormously popular here in the Bay Area. We’re talking about specialized installations such as backyard putting greens and bocce ball courts, even tennis courts. Where artificial turf is action-oriented, artificial grass is the “good looks” side of the equation. That’s not to suggest that these longer, softer products aren’t equally durable, but they’re designed to provide maximum aesthetic appeal, too. We call it “grass,” but the product actually has three components. The most important thing to know is that not all artificial grass is the same. Materials and workmanship used in manufacturing both determine the quality and value of the final product. Professional installation assures maximum longevity and performance. Artificial grass makes a gorgeous lawn, plus there are specialized varieties that are ideal for children’s playgrounds and backyard play areas or for at-home dog runs and doggie daycare facilities. And just as artificial turf is safer than natural grass for players, our artificial grass for kids is safer than real grass, too. Despite their distinct differences, artificial turf/grass have numerous common traits – all the things that make them popular with all types of property owners: There are no so many variations on synthetic grass products, we like to say that Heavenly Greens offers 50 shades of green. Picking the right one for your application can feel overwhelming, so give us a call and we’ll walk you through it. Better yet, come visit our spacious showroom, where you can not only see but feel samples of the grass varieties we offer. Whether you’re in the market for artificial turf or artificial grass, we’re pretty sure you’ll be amazed at the options.
Although most people tend to use the terms “artificial turf” and “artificial grass” interchangeably, each name actually refers to a different type of synthetic grass. Turf is used to describe sports grass, which is shorter. Artificial grass is the officially correct term for landscape grass, which is longer and fluffier.My, how times have changed!
Artificial turf
Artificial grass
So many things in common
FAQs
What's the Difference Between Artificial Turf and Artificial Grass? ›
Artificial turf resembles a much shorter or shallower carpet of hairs and offers less cushioning than artificial and real grass. However, these types of artificial surfaces are tough enough to withstand the pounding of football or soccer players.
Is there a difference between artificial turf and artificial grass? ›Artificial turf is a product similar to artificial grass, but it has shorter fibers and may include rubber infill, sand infill, or be a combination of both. It is designed to look, feel and play better than natural grass!
Which is more expensive artificial grass or turf? ›A natural lawn has some important pros compared to artificial turf that are worth considering. For one, real grass will cost you less up front as the cost of grass seed or sod is much less than artificial grass installation. Secondly, a lawn of real, lush grass just looks and feels great!
What is the difference between pet turf and artificial grass? ›Pet turf will better control odors and ensure proper drainage compared to non-pet synthetic turf options. A few things to consider when browsing for the right pet turf for your family: The number of animals and their size – some turf products are more durable than others.
Should I do turf or grass? ›When the turf gets dirty, all that's required of you is to wash the dirt off. Aside from the occasional cleaning, the primary maintenance requirement for turf involves raking the yard during the fall, which is still easier than raking a grass lawn. Overall, you should expect a turf lawn to be easier to maintain.
What is a negative of artificial grass? ›It restricts access to natural materials like leaf litter and grass clippings – essential for feeding soil organisms like worms and microscopic animals and keeping the soil healthy. Artificial grass reaches significantly greater temperatures than those reached by natural grass under the same weather conditions.
What should you not do with artificial grass? ›Say No to Sharp-Edged Furniture
If the feet, stands, stools, or support of your outdoor furniture or accessory sits on the ground with a high-pressure sharp edge, there could potentially be problems. Best case scenario, it will split or strip the blades of artificial grass that leave your lawn looking so lush.
As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between $2 and $20 per square foot for artificial turf installation with the average cost being $12.5 per square foot.
What's better than artificial grass? ›Natural grass has the potential to last forever
If you enjoy spending weekends in the garden and taking care of your outdoor areas, then a natural lawn is a great option for you. With a natural lawn, what you put in is what you get. A well-maintained natural lawn has the potential to last for many years.
Polyethylene – The most popular type of artificial grass yarn, as it is generally the most durable and looks the most like real grass due to its robust, stiff blades. Usually, it can withstand heavy traffic, making a great ground cover for sports facilities and playgrounds.
Can a dog dig up fake grass? ›
If your pup continues to try digging, they more than likely won't be able to damage or puncture the turf. If installed correctly, synthetic lawn installations will most likely be too durable for dogs to damage by digging. For best results in securing the turf, make sure your installers are using non-galvanized nails.
Does artificial turf get too hot for dogs? ›Cooling synthetic turf is essential for the safety of your pet's paws. When the turf gets hot, it can be uncomfortable and, in extreme cases, harmful for your pet. There are simple ways to keep artificial grass cool.
Is hybrid grass the same as artificial turf? ›One of the most common benefits that people associate with synthetic turf is its ability to be used in areas where it can't be watered, like on roofs or in drought-prone areas. The hybrid grass turf has an artificial base layer that provides stability and protection against root intrusion.
What are the disadvantages of turf? ›Cons of synthetic turf: It can be expensive to install, doesn't feel as natural, and can get hot in the sun. Pros of real grass: It's natural, feels soft, and can help cool the surrounding area. Cons of real grass: It requires regular watering, mowing, and can turn brown in harsh conditions.
Will I regret artificial grass? ›At the same time, while artificial turf may look inviting, it can actually burn your feet in hot weather, the Guardian explained. Real grass helps cool the area down. Also, water tends to pool on top of artificial turf — and so can urine, creating a smell that lingers long-term.
What is cheaper, artificial grass or turf? ›First and foremost artificial grass is more expensive to lay down than grass. The price of good installation will especially hurt the pocket. This is because a professionally installed turf surface will include a free draining sub base, similar to a patio.
Is turf cheaper than artificial grass? ›It may not come as a surprise that installing an artificial lawn is more expensive than installing real grass. But to accurately compare cost, we also need to consider ongoing maintenance costs.
Does artificial turf drain better than grass? ›Yes, artificial turf drains much better than regular turf. For perspective, top artificial turf has a drainage rate of 1,200 inches per hour. Real grass, on the other hand, can barely handle a few inches per hour. This makes artificial turf an ideal solution for civil, private, and commercial applications.
Is artificial turf more slippery than grass? ›Ever walk across a lawn after it has rained, or was recently watered? The chances of slipping and falling on grass, even when it's still just covered with morning or evening dew, are much greater than walking across moisture-wicking faux grass. Now imagine your children trying to run and play on that wet natural grass!