The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about lawns is probably natural lawn is REAL! Then if natural grass is the way to go, why do some people tend to gravitate towards artificial lawns?
Over the years, the trend has been more towards natural than fake lawns. Australians love their outdoors and their emerald, green lawn. A sense of satisfaction and pride arises when you get praised for your thick and lush lawn. But is artificial lawn to be put aside because it is not the real deal?
We have put together a list of the advantages and disadvantages of both lawns just to give you a better idea of where you stand. And maybe to help you make an informed decision. There are a lot of factors that may affect your options. Whichever way you swing, the choice is ultimately yours.
Naturally, as this is my favourite type of lawn, let’s start with Natural Lawn! Real grass or natural turf has been in use for a very long time. It is usually the go to for many Australians who want to entertain the family and friends in their backyards. I personally think that nothing beats natural or real grass.
Natural Grass: Pros
- Reduce your carbon footprint by growing natural turf: it is eco friendly, good for the environment.
- Natural lawn is self repairing as it will grow back if damaged.
- The upkeep of a lawn can be fun and relaxing.
- Natural grass looks and feels better to touch and to roll around in.
- Is kids and pet friendly: a safe place and heat proof area to play and have fun.
- Easy to install – grow it from seeds or buy and install in quick and easy steps.
- Relatively less expensive to install compared to artificial grass.
- Can last forever when cared for accordingly.
- Creates a cooling effect especially during those Perth long, hot summer months.
- Increase your property value especially when well maintained.
Natural Grass: Cons
- It takes time to take care of the lawn. Not ideal for time-short, busy people.
- Natural grass requires lots of time spent removing weeds, fertilising and mowing – at least every 2 weeks depending on the season.
- You need equipment like lawn mowers, whipper snippers, grass care products to keep everything nice, healthy and neat.
- Easier to damage due to heavy traffic, from kids playing outdoors or pets.
- Needs water to keep it healthy, lush and green. Hefty water bills.
- Can’t be immediately used after installation
- Can be costly over the long run: it is an investment.
The very first time synthetic turf was used was in the USA in the 1960’s at The Houston Astrodome: a fully enclosed stadium with a synthetic field. Since then, there have been further developments and better ways of production. So what are the pros and cons of Synthetic/fake/artificial turf?
Synthetic/Artificial Lawns: Pros
- Very low maintenance,no chemicals and no equipment to keep in shape.
- Will last longer and is durable when put under duress: heavy traffic, kids and pets
- Use it immediately. No waiting to enjoy.
- No need to water! Reduce your water bills.
- Versatile usage – indoor or outdoors
- Just wash to keep it clean.
- Looks good and can give you a natural feel without the hassle of caring for it.
- Can be easier for smaller areas that need to be greened.
Synthetic/ Artificial lawns: Cons
- It costs more to install.
- Check that the company making the artificial lawns guarantees the safety of their product with no nasty chemicals used in the process which can be harmful for pets and kids..
- Not sustainable.The plastic usually is hard to recycle as they are made from different types of synthetic materials.
- Need to be replaced after a few years if heavily damaged. Can’t be repaired easily.
- Looks are deceiving, it is green but does not stay cool. Will need to be hosed down during hot days.
- Can cause burns to family and pets due to the increase in temperature in Summer.
- Causes water run-offs during heavy rains
Food for thought? Fake grass or Natural turf? Ultimately, the decision is yours. From what is outlined above, weigh the good and the bad and make an informed decision that will suit your lifestyle and demands.
Need help? Contact us and we can help with the best advice based on your needs.
