General Artificial Grass FAQs
These are the most frequently asked questions that we hear regarding artificial grass and the corresponding answers.
What is Artificial Grass Made of?
Artificial grass is made out of resilient compounds like polypropylene, polyethylene, and nylon. Manufacturers add other compounds to incorporate different features into their turf products. For example, some turf products contain antimicrobial agents that are infused with turf fibers or backing during the manufacturing process. This is especially valuable on fake grass for dogs as it helps prevent the buildup of odors and bacteria from dog urine.
What is the Best Artificial Grass for my Project?
There are many different styles of artificial turf and many of the synthetic turf applications are installed with generic styles of turf due to an assumption that all turf is the same or a limited variety is offered. This is not true, and our team can show you all your options and select the best application for your project. Very low activity areas need to address quality, density, and aesthetics whereas areas with mid-level activity or more should have a thatch product with a higher density turf installed. A high-density, thatch-based product recovers significantly better during activity and grooming, as well as a high-quality yarn.
What Maintenance Does Artificial Grass Require?
More a matter of keeping clean than maintaining… Remove organic materials from the surface, typically by using a leaf blower. Rakes may be required for removing heavier objects; however, the leaf blower is the ideal tool for general upkeep. A stiff, natural bristle broom can be used to “fluff” high traffic areas.
Does Artificial Grass Get Hot in the Sun?
Artificial grass does not stay as cool as natural grass which has water running through it, but it does not absorb and radiate heat like pavement, rock or brick. That said, summers in Plano are hot, and any surface exposed to the sun long enough will heat up. To help keep your turf cool we recommend T°-Cool® Infill. It works by trapping moisture and slowly releases it through the process of evaporative cooling. This can lower the temperature of your turf by 30° F- 50°F.
How Long Does Artificial Grass Last?
Most quality turf products have a 15-20 year life expectancy. Our warranty guarantees that it won’t fade or fall apart and that it will look great for years to come!
Does Artificial Grass Allow Water & Pet Urine to Drain?
Nobody likes a lawn strewn with puddles or the mud that gets tracked through your house. This is why artificial grass is designed with a backing that facilitates drainage in one of two ways. The two most common types of turf backing are “Perforated or Hole-Punch” and “Non-Perforated or Fully Permeable.”
What are the Most Common Applications for Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass is extremely versatile and is commonly used at both residential and commercial properties throughout Plano, TX.
The most popular turf applications are:
Pet Turf – People choose artificial turf for dogs and other pet uses because it doesn’t turn brown from dog urine, dogs can’t dig through it, and because of its durability it remains pristine, even with very active dogs.
Outdoor Living Areas – A lot of people choose artificial turf for its versatility in outdoor living spaces like rooftops, decks, balconies, patios, around swimming pools, etc.
Lawns & Landscapes – Synthetic lawns add aesthetic beauty to any property, and allow customers to avoid watering and maintenance costs. On average, when switching to artificial turf lawns, homeowners can save up to 56,000 gallons of water per year.
Backyard Putting Greens – Many Plano residents get backyard putting greens installed to practice their short game whenever they want. It’s certainly easier than driving to the local driving range or golf course. Artificial turf putting greens can be completely customized, from the shape of the green to the breaks, you can even adjust the ball speed.
Is Artificial Grass Safe for Children & Pets?
Yes! Artificial grass is safe for kids, dogs, and pets. Synthetic grass provides a lush, soft surface that helps to absorb the impact from falls.
With natural grass lawns, the biggest risk for dogs and cats is exposure to poisonous compounds. Synthetic grass eliminates the need to use any lawn care products so your pets and kids will be safer than ever.
Turf Installation FAQs
These are the most commonly asked questions that we hear regarding artificial grass installation along with their corresponding answers.
Can I Install Artificial Grass Myself?
Yes. You can install artificial grass by yourself if you have the proper tools for the job. However, we strongly recommend going with a reputable artificial grass installation company. Working with a professional turf company, you can rest assured that your synthetic grass will be properly installed and will last for years to come.
Can You Install Artificial Grass on Dirt?
Before installing artificial grass on dirt, several steps must be taken to prepare the ground. The dirt surface must be properly flattened and topped with a base layer of crushed limestone that’s compacted. This creates a level foundation to install the turf and is permeable, allowing water & pet urine to drain.
Can You Install Artificial Grass on Concrete?
Installing artificial grass on concrete is actually easier than other surfaces as it doesn’t require much preparation.
How Much Does Artificial Grass Installation Cost?
The final price of artificial turf depends largely on the size of the installation, type of turf being installed, amount of prep work required, etc. On average, for a 1,000 square foot installation, you can expect to pay around $6.00 – $12.00 per square foot.
We put together a detailed guide about artificial grass costs and pricing.
How Long Does an Artificial Grass Installation Take?
Are All Turf Installations Basically the Same?
Not at all. Installation quality is very important for aesthetics and longevity. How the sub-surface is sculpted, how the edges are addressed, how the product is secured, and most importantly how the seams are put together. An inexperienced crew will leave you with noticeable seams, which is not aesthetically pleasing and will continue to open up over time.
Miscellaneous FAQs
These are questions that we've heard a number of times that don't really fall under one of the above categories.
Is it Easy to Clean up After my Dog on Artificial Grass?
Easy as can be! All you have to do is pick up any leavings and give the area a quick rinse once a week to flush it. Avoid over-saturating the area with water as it can have the opposite effect.
Do I Need to be Present During the Installation?
It’s not necessary to be present for the duration of your artificial grass landscape install. Our trusted crew will ensure a quality installation through and through.
Does Your Turf Contain Lead or Other RCRA Hazardous Waste Heavy Metals?
No. Our synthetic turf products contain no detectable traces of lead or other RCRA hazardous waste heavy metals.
Does the Sheen / Shine on Artificial Grass Go Away?
Yes. The sheen on your artificial turf will progressively diminish and go away. Some products in the marketplace are shinier than others for various reasons i.e. wider blades refract more light, rectangular yarns refract more light, and some yarns go through a de-lustering process. The length of time depends on the product shape and the chemical makeup of the yarn.
Does Installing Artificial Grass Increase My Property's Value?
You can bet on it! More and more people are making the switch to artificial grass as it is becoming exponentially more popular. A home equipped with turf will likely attract more buyers and ultimately sell for a higher value.
How Much can I Save by Installing Artificial Grass?
A lot. Artificial grass conserves water and eliminates the need for mowing, trimming, and fertilizing your lawn. Recurring droughts and the rising costs demanded by landscaping companies ensure you’ll save plenty over time. Moreover, you’ll be saving something more valuable than money: your time.
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Plano Turf Installers
7950 Legacy Dr.
Suite 400-343
Plano, TX 75024
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(469) 817-7566