How Long Does Artificial Turf Last - When to Replace

Written by Ivy

You might start to question whether the expense of installing artificial turf is worthwhile when it comes to updating your home or commercial space with new artificial turf. Understanding how long your artificial grass will last is the best way to make this determination.

Since artificial grass requires little maintenance and has a year-round lush green appearance, it is a popular choice among homeowners. Artificial grass is also ideal for backyard swimming pools, golf greens, and pet areas.

With average use and maintenance, you can expect to enjoy your synthetic grass for at least 20 years, a worthwhile investment that essentially pays for itself in half that time.

How Long Does Artificial Grass Last?

The quality of the product, the installation, and general maintenance will all have a significant impact on how long artificial grass lasts. Artificial turf can pay for itself in less than five years and can last up to twenty years or longer with proper maintenance.

In light of this, let's examine a few elements that may have a big impact on how long your synthetic turf lasts.

Factors Affecting Synthetic Grass Lifespan

The amount of use your artificial grass will receive as well as environmental factors that you may have less control over will all have an impact on how long it lasts.

Heavy Use

It should come as no surprise that frequent use will deteriorate your artificial lawn more quickly than light usage. The synthetic turf used in sporting arenas lasts about ten years, which is about half as long as it would probably last in a residential home with average use. This is probably the most aggressive use of synthetic turf. If your turf will be used as a dog run or gets a lot of use from kids at your house, you may need to make sure you're keeping up with the minimal upkeep needed to keep your turf looking great.

Weather Effects

Artificial grass works well in any climate and is a less expensive option for people in warm climates, like San Diego, who want to cut back on their water usage. In lower-quality turf installations, too much direct sunlight can shorten the life of an artificial lawn. To choose materials that will withstand a lot of sun and heat in the warmer months, make sure to speak with your neighborhood turf experts. High-quality materials are less likely to discolor.

While less of an issue in a city like San Diego, bad weather in general can shorten the life of an artificial lawn.

Install Your Turf Right

When installing artificial turf, homeowners who try to save money upfront frequently discover that their efforts pay off later on with pooling water, uneven grass, and even lifted edges that can pose a danger to children and pets inside the house.

Your artificial turf will be installed correctly if you hire knowledgeable professionals. They can also offer crucial guidance regarding the turf that will work best for you and your particular requirements as well as high-quality materials that you might not otherwise have access to. The likelihood that your artificial turf will be installed properly and that it will be installed with the proper infill increases with professional turf installation.

Ignoring Light Maintenance

Installing turf shouldn't be discouraged by the minimal upkeep needed to keep an artificial lawn looking its best because it requires far less work than a natural lawn. However, skipping any maintenance will shorten the life of your artificial lawn.

Taking Care of Artificial Grass

To keep your artificial turf looking nice and new for as long as possible, follow these maintenance tips for artificial grass. You can extend the life of your synthetic lawn by performing occasional minor maintenance. Here are some quick hints for maintaining artificial grass. (Also Read: How To Lay Turf - Lawn Laying Guide)

Water and Rake Your Turf

No, water is not necessary for your turf to grow. Although it's artificial, occasionally hosing it down will remove any dirt and debris that may have gathered on your lawn. This is particularly crucial in dry climates like San Diego because rain rarely benefits artificial lawn maintenance.

Additionally, it's crucial to sweep, rake, or power broom your turf and turf infill to remove any debris that might later cause issues.

Clean Up After Your Pets

If you're a pet owner wondering how to clean artificial turf for pets, weekly rinses will get rid of any undesirable debris and odors. You can also choose odor-reducing infills if you want more security. Every time your pet uses the restroom on your artificial lawn, you should clean up the mess.

Watch for Repairs

You shouldn't assume you need to replace your synthetic lawn right away because of a minor problem with your artificial turf, like a tiny rip or tear. Although synthetic grass is built to last, it can also be repaired fairly simply. Even if it's been a while since installation, your installation professionals can help you make simple adjustments to enhance the appearance of your artificial turf.

Since you're not waiting for the issues to worsen, taking care of those minor repairs as they come up should also extend the lifespan of your artificial lawn.

Is It Time to Replace Your Artificial Turf?

Whether or not it's time to replace your artificial turf, you'll probably be able to tell. Signs to look for include:

  • The blades are broken and clearly worn out.
  • Large swaths of the lawn are displaying discoloration.
  • Areas of your artificial lawn have become loose, causing tripping hazards
  • For home sales or other reasons, you might simply want to give your outdoor area a fresh look.

All of this could indicate that it's time to replace your synthetic turf.

Is Artificial Turf Worth It?

Artificial turf installation is so inexpensive that a return on investment (ROI) of just 3 to 5 years is typical, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in water and landscaping costs.

FAQs

What Are the Disadvantages of Artificial Grass?

  • The fact that it won't last as long as real grass may be a drawback for some.
  • Even in the hottest conditions, artificial grass shouldn't burn people.
  • Since artificial turf is made of plastic and not a natural material that wildlife can inhabit, it might lessen the biodiversity of your garden.

How Long Does Artificial Turf Last on a Football Field

After their life expectancy of 8-10 years, artificial turf fields do require to be replaced to ensure proper performance and safety.

How Often Does Artificial Turf Need to Be Replaced

After their life expectancy of 8-10 years, artificial turf fields do require to be replaced to ensure proper performance and safety.

Is Artificial Grass Too Hot for Dogs

Artificial grass does not stay as cool as natural grass, which has water running through it, but does not absorb and radiate heat like pavement, rock, or brick. We advise providing a shaded area for your dogs to retreat to if you are worried about their paws becoming too hot.

Does Artificial Turf Absorb Water

Artificial turf is made of polyethylene and polyethylene, neither the fibers or backings are not porous, therefore, no water or moisture or smell will be penetrated inside the product itself.

Is Artificial Grass Slippery When Wet

Artificial grass is an infinitely safer alternative because even though it looks like natural grass – and feels even better to your feet – faux grass does not get slippery when wet. The installation and design of premium synthetic grass ensures that moisture drains away quickly.