Is there a difference between artificial turf and artificial grass

Over the years the artificial grass industry has come an exceptionally long way. The thought of astro turf which we may remember seeing in butcher’s window displays or tennis courts of the ’90s has evolved. There was just one product that came in only one colour, which despite being green looked nothing like the grass of any kind. It also had an unmistakable texture that was never confused with the real thing.

Now with advances in polymer science and technology, there is a multitude of products available, many with specialised purposes in mind when they were designed. As a general rule, Artificial grass is the correct terminology for referencing landscape grass used in yards. The composition of this is longer and fluffier and not as tightly woven. Often these products are designed with the look and feel in mind, to aesthetically improve the area in which it has been laid. As the age-old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Not all items are created equal.

If you opt for a cheaper DIY product you are likely to find that the grass won’t stand the test of time. Depending on the traffic it endures parts may not remain laid correctly with bubbling and peeling of edges. It’s also less likely to look anything like the real thing and more likely to resemble a green plastic carpet.

SYNLawn Australia utilises the latest technology that creates their various artificial lawns from Australian made yarn. It is designed for the Australian climate of extreme heat with high UV, as well as superior drainage for the flash flooding, we can sometimes experience.

Artificial Turf is designed for sport. It is TOUGH. It needs to be to endure the extreme impact from running feet, sports cleats, the impact from cricket bats or hockey sticks and balls from a multitude of sports. It may come as a surprise, but despite how tough Sports turf is made, it actually is safer to play on. There is no worn-out grass, no uneven surfaces, less slippery when wet and the actual design absorbs more impact.

There are also some elements that both these types of artificial grass have in common.

• They literally require no water.
• Next to no maintenance
• Non-toxic, safe for children and pets

The average lifespan of artificial grass mostly depends on how much use it receives but on average last 15-20 years. The amount of time you save maintaining combined with investing in weed killers, lawnmowers and watering, synthetic grass ends up being significantly cheaper, and can now look better than the real thing.

So, if you are planning to design or build a new home then artificial grass and turf can be the best choice for you. The role of the landscaper’s also important. It must be someone who can be trusted and experienced with their task. Installation of the fake grass is easy but it should be in a perfect and simple way.