Is It Time to Consider Synthetic Grass?

Synthetic Grass
Synthetic turf is moving beyond football fields and golf courses to become more common in home landscapes. I\'ll show you how this material can make sense in many home applications and even solve some landscaping problems that vex so many of us. Is it right for you? Find out here.
Where to use synthetic grass:
Home putting greens
Rooftop gardens that cannot support the weight of traditional artificial lawns
Areas that have inhospitable conditions for growing real grass
Easily cleanable areas for small pets
Where you want the look of grass without the maintenance and water bills of real grass
Anywhere you want to reduce your carbon footprint
Pros: Synthetic turf requires no mowing, trimming, watering, fertilizing or pesticides. It reduces your water bill, looks great year-round and is widely available for installation in most metropolitan areas. Very natural-looking types are available, making it almost impossible to tell fake grass from real grass unless it\'s closely inspected.
Cons: Artificial grass is expensive and takes skill to properly install. The least-expensive types can look cheap and unnatural, so it pays to install the highest quality you can afford. It heats up quickly, so it may not be a great option for Southern climates with intense sunlight, unless it\'s installed in a shaded area.
Cost: Artificial grass is expensive, but in time you will recoup your investment with a lower water bill, fewer chemicals and less maintenance. Artificial grass installed by a professional can cost up to $20 per square foot or more. The turf alone can cost anywhere from about $2 to $3 per square foot, but the total cost is much higher because of the extensive prep work. Consider using fake grass in smaller areas to achieve the best look.

Considerations: Synthetic grass comes in a wide range of quality — and in general, you get what you pay for. Look for a grass that has some brown blades blended in to make it look more natural, and always ask for recommendations from your installer. Homeowners who have strong DIY experience can take on a project like this in smaller spaces, but others should consider hiring a professional.