Homeowners are commonly looking to synthetic turf to simplify lawn care, while maintaining a yard that stays vibrant all year long. In Edmonton especially, ensuring your lawn stays green can be challenging. The extreme winters and summers create frost damage and can make for a muddy experience.
Before deciding on artificial or natural grass, it's important to consider their different strengths. You'll also want to compare their costs, maintenance requirements, and life expectancy.
Comparing the Costs
The initial upfront cost of artificial turf is higher. However, in the long run, less maintenance is required, making for a more cost-efficient investment over time. They exhibit excellent resilience against weather extremes, without water requirements.
Depending on the material, size, blade heights, and installation, you may spend around $9 for each square foot. The shape of your area also affects pricing, with curved or sloped properties requiring more labour.
Although natural grass costs less, with sod installation priced at $1-2 per square foot, regular mowing, irrigation, cleanup, fertilization, and labour are required. Watering adds to the expense, too, with sprinkler installation or replacements often needed.
Environmental Friendliness
The environmental impact of artificial turf differs from natural grass. While a natural lawn can support ecosystems and provide shade for surrounding plants, it requires higher water use and maintenance. Artificial turf, on the other hand, requires no fertilization or mowing equipment, eliminating the possibilities for water or gas pollutants.
Maintenance Requirements
Unlike natural grass, which requires routine upkeep, including fertilization, weeding, mowing, and watering, synthetic grass offers a low-maintenance alternative. Artificial grass withstands wear and tear, making it a great option for pets and kids. This also means less cleaning and fewer repairs are required, keeping your yard hygienic and family-friendly.
An artificial lawn also performs exceptionally well in Edmonton's harsh weather conditions, with efficient water drainage and long-lasting greenery. Lawn care services aren't required as often, and yards look more even, even for areas where natural grass can't properly grow.
Artificial Grass Maintenance
Although artificial lawn requires less maintenance than real grass, keeping an eye on proper upkeep will ensure your yard stays looking great.
- Clean up mild stains by blotting with a towel and rinsing the area with a water-detergent mixture
- For oil or grease stains, clean with a grass spot remover or mineral spirits. Testing on a small area using safety equipment should be done first.
- Rinse pet waste after it has dried, using a garden hose
- To keep blades upright and free of debris, use a leaf blower and a non-metal rake (e.g. with plastic bristles)
Lifespan of Artificial Grass
By following proper maintenance, artificial turf usually lasts beyond its warranty and can have a lifespan of up to 25 years. Note, however, that artificial grass of lower quality or that has sustained heavy foot traffic can wear out more easily. By picking a qualified landscaping contractor, you can find the right installation that works for your regional climate and needs.
Choosing Isle Group for Your Artificial Lawn
At Isle Group, our team leverages over 25 years of experience to expertly install artificial turf systems that complement your existing landscape. Whether you're looking to install a golf yard or create a pet-friendly area, we'll find a solution that fits your needs and budget.
Our certified contractors will handle any soil preparation, grading, and drainage for an installation that truly performs and beautifies your space. From infill-free design to traditional lawn treatments, we'll get you connected with a solution that fits your lifestyle.
Can't decide on artificial or natural grass? Contact our Edmonton artificial grass landscaping experts to discuss your vision, and we'll help you get started.