The answer to turning empty spaces to green vertical gardens, transforming your rooftop or basement into green areas of solace that never need tending or a green thumb, is synthetic grass.
Synthetic grass has transformed from being an unsightly lawn substitute to a modern design tool people can use not only in landscaping but interior design. Today’s synthetic turf offers design flexibility, value for money, durability and introduces new avenues of creativity to home and commercial spaces.
From Lawn Substitute to Design Material
Modern synthetic turf has changed from the old, clunky designs that looked overly plastic and unappealing. Technological changes in material and manufacturing processes give us synthetic grass that looks real, has a soft texture and is resilient.
Contemporary turf is engineered with multi-directional blades in varied shapes, heights and densities, creating the same natural irregularity we find in natural grass.
Several new synthetic grass products feature innovative polyethene fibre blends infused with UV-resistant pigments, helping the turf retain its rich colour despite years of direct sunlight.
Manufacturers have improved the synthetic turf’s backing, thereby improving its drainage. Its modern design has also improved synthetic grass’s fibre memory, which allows it to spring back even after heavy foot traffic, making synthetic grass ideal for creative landscaping, interiors and commercial spaces.
Synthetic Grass Texture and Comfort
Modern advancements have transformed artificial turf’s texture and feel. Its advanced manufacturing process includes fibrillation techniques, which split each blade into ultra-fine strands, creating a noticeably softer, cushioned texture. This technique of artificial grass gives the natural look and feel of a lawn.
By introducing subtle browns and tans, manufacturers give fake turf a natural look that appeals to interior designers and homeowners. These layers mimic the organic intricacy found at the base of natural grass, contributing to a richer, more realistic look.
Artificial grass manufacturers have improved artificial lawns’ quality so much that it’s difficult to distinguish it from real lawn. By offering visual appeal, comfort, sustainability and long term aesthetic appeal, homeowners have great looking grass without the hassle of constant maintenance.
Durability and Performance of Synthetic Grass
The notable differences in modern synthetic lawn are its durability and long term performance. Earlier artificial grass versions experienced issues with fibre loss, matting, and poor drainage. However, the new, improved versions have resolved these issues.
Modern synthetic grass products feature multi-ply backing systems reinforced with fibre-lock technology, securing each blade more effectively and reducing shedding. This advanced construction means the turf can withstand heavier foot traffic, making it ideal for residential spaces, commercial landscapes, play areas and heavy traffic areas.
New production methods have improved the lawns’ longevity. By introducing more durable materials and UV-resistant pigments, the lifespan of modern versions reaches approximately 25% longer than previous versions.
There are also notable drainage improvements of synthetic grass. With drainage capabilities exceeding 30 inches of water per hour, synthetic grass eliminates collective concerns about water pooling or slow runoff.
Improved drainage means cleaner, drier surfaces and helps prevent mould or mildew build-up.
Compelling reasons for Artificial Grass
Synthetic grass’s benefits extend beyond its aesthetic appeal. In regions where water conservation is a high priority, artificial lawn is the answer to drought strapped areas. Natural lawns require approximately 55,000 litres of water annually for a standard residential yard. However, artificial varieties remove this need entirely.
- Water conservation
In regions with hot and dry climates, lawn maintenance requires litres of water annually. Synthetic turf eliminates this need, saving time, water and money on utility bills. For homeowners conscious of reducing their carbon footprint, synthetic grass offers an impactful method of maintaining lush, green lawns.
- Environmental and Health benefits
Artificial grass removes the need for chemical fertilizers, pesticides and fuel-powered maintenance equipment. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are not only harmful to the environment but can also cause health issues in the family.
By removing chemicals, homeowners also reduce harmful runoff that can contaminate nearby waterways, contributing to broader environmental benefits beyond their own property.
- Reduced Manual Maintenance
Contemporary synthetic grass requires little to no manual maintenance. Occasional rinsing to remove dust and debris and sporadic brushing to maintain fibre direction are all that’s needed to maintain the fake lawn.
There is no need for time consuming lawn maintenance such as mowing, edging, fertilizing or reseeding, thus extending free time for family or hobbies.
- All year Green Lawn
Unlike traditional lawn, which turns brown during winter, artificial lawn maintains its vibrant colour and even coverage through all seasons and weather conditions.
It focuses on the concerns of urban homeowners or those with limited living spaces by eliminating the following issues:
- Brown spots over dry periods
- Muddy patches after heavy rains
- Bare patches due to heavy foot traffic.
- Design Versatility
Homeowners can install artificial grass in areas where natural turf struggles to grow, like:
- Heavily shaded yards
- Rooftop gardens
- Areas with poor soil quality
- Vertical applications like living walls
It allows homeowners to build stunning green spaces in unusable areas of their property.
Why bring Synthetic Grass Indoors?
Research has shown that exposure to natural elements indoors contributes to reducing stress, improving cognitive functions and overall well-being. Despite its artificial nature, synthetic grasses texture, colour and visual appeal has a positive impact on people. It creates a multisensory experience that reduces the disconnection between our modern indoor lives and the natural world.
Contemporary homeowners can enjoy the benefits of the outdoors without the stress of allergens and pet and children’s safety.
Is Synthetic Grass a Candidate for Future Design?
It’s a combination of synthetic lawn’s durability, low maintenance, visual appeal and flexibility that makes it a convincing material for modern architecture, landscaping, interior design and sustainable living.
With population expansion, viable green spaces are becoming less available, and water scarcity and environmental issues. Synthetic grass offers a practical, elegant and creative solution to these issues. It may not be the ideal replacement for natural ecosystems. Still, synthetic lawn offers consistency, reliability and the ability to introduce greenery to areas and surfaces where natural grass cannot survive.
