Why is Custom Artificial Turf Better?

Choosing what covers your lawn is about more than appearance — it impacts how you enjoy your outdoor space, what you spend on upkeep and how your lawn performs over time. Whether you're managing a sports field or maintaining a residential yard, deciding between natural grass and artificial turf can be a big decision.

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It’s not just about curb appeal. This choice affects long-term costs, environmental impact, maintenance needs and even health and safety. Natural grass brings living benefits like carbon absorption, temperature regulation and support for local ecosystems. On the other hand, synthetic turf offers a uniform look with less day-to-day upkeep — no mowing, watering or fertilizing required — but comes with its own considerations, from installation costs to how it performs in heat.

This guide breaks down the differences so you can make an informed decision with confidence. You’ll get a side-by-side comparison of material, performance and lifestyle factors — plus expert insight from TruGreen®’s science-driven approach to growing and maintaining healthy, natural lawns in every region. 

What’s the Difference Between Natural Grass and Artificial Turf?

At first glance, both options promise a lush lawn, but they differ in makeup, feel and upkeep. Natural grass is a living system that grows and adapts. Artificial turf is a manufactured surface made of plastic fibers, infill and backing designed to replicate grass without biological care.

Here’s a quick comparison of key differences:

Material

• Natural turf is made of live grass, soil and roots.
• Artificial turf uses synthetic fibers and infill (sand or rubber) on a perforated backing (the bottom layer of turf with small holes that let water drain through).

Installation

• Grass from sod or seed takes days to lay and weeks to establish.
• Artificial grass is installed in a few days and is ready immediately.

Maintenance

• Grass needs mowing, watering, fertilizing and aeration.
• Artificial turf requires brushing, debris removal and occasional infill top-ups.
• Artificial turf also needs cleaning and antibacterial treatments, especially if pets are using the area.

Water Use

• Natural grass could potentially use thousands of gallons per season.
• Artificial turf only needs occasional rinsing unless it’s in full sun. In these instances, it may need to be watered to cool down its surface, especially if rubber pellets are used.

Look and Feel

• Grass changes with the seasons, stays cool and feels soft.
• Artificial turf is consistently green, slightly firmer and can heat up in the sun.

These differences help set the stage for a deeper dive into which surface fits your needs best. 

Pros and Cons of Artificial Turf and Natural Grass

When you weigh natural grass against synthetic turf, the benefits and drawbacks become clearer once you separate marketing claims from day-to-day reality.

Artificial Turf

Where It Shines

Many property owners choose artificial turf for its predictability and minimal upkeep. You may find these advantages compelling:

• Low routine maintenance: No mowing, watering fertilizing or edging
• Evergreen appearance: Stays uniform through heat waves, heavy rain or shaded corners
• Rapid drainage: Helps keep playing surfaces usable after storms
• Good durability: Great for high-traffic zones such as dog runs or sports sidelines

Where It Falls Short

Despite the convenience, artificial grass isn’t trouble-free. Consider these deeper issues before committing:

• Heat retention: Plastic blades can reach surface temperatures up to 86.5° F higher than natural turf on sunny days, increasing the risk of burns and heat-related injuries on artificial turf for pets and kids.
• Upfront investment: Installation can cost five to ten times more than laying sod and specialized base preparation elevates the price further.
• Limited life span: Most products last 8-15 years before fibers flatten or infill compacts, leading to replacement costs and disposal challenges.
• Environmental concerns: Synthetic materials contribute to plastic waste, potential microplastic runoff and higher urban-heat-island effects.
• Surface hardness: Compacted infill can create a firmer playing surface that may increase impact stress on joints compared with well-kept natural turf.

Natural Grass

Where It Excels

Living turf offers benefits that synthetic alternatives simply can’t replicate:

• Natural cooling: Evapotranspiration, the process of plants releasing water into the air, helps cool the surrounding area by several degrees for a naturally cooler surface.
• Ecosystem benefits: Natural grass provides carbon capture, dust reduction and habitat support for pollinators and beneficial insects.
• Soil health: Proper aeration and fertilization improve drainage, nutrient cycling and long-term turf vitality.
• Climate adaptability: Regionally suited grass cultivars can be selected for optimal performance in your specific environment (see TruGreen’s guide on “Growing the Best Turf Grass”)

Where It Demands More

A green, resilient lawn doesn’t happen on autopilot. Here are the main challenges:

• Ongoing care: Regular mowing, seasonal fertilization, weed control and pest monitoring are essential for a lush natural grass field.
• Water consumption: In dry regions you may need large irrigations of water which could drive up utility bills.
• Weather vulnerability: Extended drought, heavy foot traffic or disease outbreaks can thin grass and require reseeding or sod repair.
• Allergy potential: Grass pollen can irritate sensitive family members during peak seasons.
• Equipment and time: Maintaining a pristine grass lawn means fuel or electric costs for a lawn mower plus several hours of work each month — unless you partner with a professional service like TruGreen, which can take the burden of lawn care services like weed control and fertilization off your plate and keep your lawn healthy year-round.  

A natural grass surface acts as a carbon sink, filters air pollutants, supports biodiversity and cools surrounding areas through evapotranspiration. Its roots help prevent soil erosion and promote healthy groundwater. TruGreen’s expert services, including fertilization and aeration, enhance these natural benefits by improving soil health and turf resilience.

Synthetic turf conserves water and reduces emissions from mowing, but it's made of non-biodegradable plastic. It eventually ends up in landfills, can contribute to heat buildup and doesn’t support local ecosystems. However, it’s a strong option in drought-prone areas where water conservation is key.

Ultimately, if long-term sustainability and ecosystem health matter the most to you, natural grass has the edge. But if reduced water use and minimal upkeep are your goals, turf may be the better fit. 

Which One Should You Choose?

Natural grass and artificial turf both offer environmental pros and cons — the greener choice depends on your priorities.

Natural grass benefits:

• Acts as a carbon sink, absorbing CO₂ and releasing oxygen
• Filters pollutants and traps dust particles
• Cools surrounding areas through evapotranspiration
• Supports pollinators and beneficial insects
• Anchors soil to prevent erosion and aid groundwater recharge

Artificial turf benefits and trade-offs:

• Conserves water — natural grass requires large amounts of water to grow and stay healthy
• Requires no mowing or fuel-powered equipment
• Made of non-biodegradable plastic, with panels typically ending up in landfills after 10-15 years
• Can absorb and radiate heat, increasing ground surface temps by up to 86.5°F
• Doesn’t support biodiversity or natural soil cycles

The bottom line:

If sustainability, carbon capture and ecosystem health are priorities, natural grass has the edge especially when supported by TruGreen’s lawn care programs.  

Pet-Friendliness: Natural Grass vs Artificial Turf

If you're a pet owner, especially of dogs, your lawn isn’t just an aesthetic feature — it’s a playground, a bathroom and a napping spot all in one. Choosing between real grass and artificial turf means balancing convenience, safety and your pet’s preferences.

Natural Grass for Pets

Pros:

• Cooling comfort: Grass stays cooler in summer, helping pets avoid paw burns and heat stress.
• Natural feel: Many dogs prefer the texture and smell of real grass and it’s instinctively familiar.
• Gentle on paws: Natural grass is soft underfoot, making it comfortable for pets to run, roll, and relax.

Cons:

• Wear and tear: Frequent digging or urination can cause bald patches, yellowing or muddy areas.
• Maintenance required: You’ll need to manage odor, lawn repair and increased cleanup if your yard sees high pet activity.
• Pest presence: Real lawns can attract fleas, ticks and other parasites, which may pose a health risk to your pet.

Artificial Turf for Pets

Pros:

• Durability: Synthetic grass resists digging and holds up under heavy paw traffic.
• Easy cleanup: Waste sits on an artificial surface and is easy to scoop; many pet-specific turf options have antimicrobial infill and drainage systems.
• No mud: Rain or shine, an artificial lawn eliminates the mess — no muddy paws or dirty fur indoors.

Cons:

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• Heat retention: Synthetic turf can become uncomfortably hot, putting your pet’s paws at risk on sunny days.
• Odor buildup: Without regular rinsing, pet urine can cause odors to linger.
• Less cushioning: While some turf includes underpadding, it may still feel less soft than real grass underfoot — and under paw.

Bring Your Lawn to Life - Without the Work

If having a natural grass lawn feels like the right fit for your space, you don’t have to take on the upkeep alone. TruGreen combines science, regional expertise and tailored services to give you the lush, healthy lawn you want — minus the stress and guesswork.

From your first consultation to ongoing seasonal support, TruGreen customizes every step to suit your lawn’s unique needs. Whether it’s improving drought resistance, tackling weeds or boosting soil health, their experts have it covered — so you can enjoy your outdoor space more and worry about it less.

Let TruGreen do the heavy lifting. Contact us today and discover how easy a thriving, natural lawn can be with the right team behind you. 

**Available to residential customers for Lawn, TruDefense Mosquito,TruBarrier Perimeter Pest, Flea, Tick & Outdoor Nuisance Pest Control and/or TruShrub Tree & Shrub services only. Requires purchase of annual plan using PrePay or EasyPay. Guarantee based on a matching quote from a Qualified Provider. Parameters include matching service address, number of applications, application price, services to be performed and areas to be treated. Not valid on quotes older than 120 days or one-day sales/seasonal promotions. TruGreen reserves the right to verify. For first year of service only. Limited time offer. Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating TruGreen locations. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax.

* Special price of 50% off is for first Lawn application★, Tree & Shrub application✢, and/or Mosquito application★★ only. All other restrictions apply.

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✦ Purchase of full lawn plan required for Healthy Lawn Analysis, which is performed at the first visit.

★ Requires purchase of annual plan. Special price is for first application only. Valid at participating TruGreen locations. Availability of services may vary by geography. Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount.

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◆◆ Prices start at $99.95 for residential customers only and treatment area up to 20K sq. ft.  For areas larger than 20K sq. ft., please call for estimate.  Service does not include removal of webs higher than 10 ft. and application does not protect against termites and other wood-destroying organisms, bedbugs, bees, fleas, German cockroaches, hornets, pharaoh ants, rodents, or ticks.  Valid at participating TruGreen locations.  Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax.

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Welcome to the world of artificial turf—where low-maintenance beauty meets everlasting greenery. In this article, we'll dive into the pros, cons, and environmental impact of artificial grass.

Find the Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass

• Cost
• Maintenance
• Aesthetic Appeal
• Durability
• Pet Friendliness
• Environmental Impact
• Weather Resilience
• Heat Retention
• Customizable Shapes and Sizes
• Waters Savings
• Infill Materials

Artificial grass, also known as artificial turf, fake grass, or synthetic turf, has gained popularity as a low-maintenance alternative to natural grass in outdoor spaces. While it offers several advantages over real turf, it also comes with its own set of drawbacks. In this article, we'll dig into the pros and cons of artificial grass across various dimensions including cost, maintenance, aesthetics, durability, pet-friendliness, environmental impact, and more.

Cost:

One of the primary considerations for homeowners opting for artificial grass is the initial cost. Artificial grass installation typically involves expenses related to materials, labor, and preparation of the surface. The cost per square foot can vary based on the quality of turf products and additional features such as UV resistance and pet-friendly artificial grass. However, despite the higher initial investment, artificial grass often proves cost-effective in the long run due to minimal maintenance requirements.

Maintenance:

Artificial grass offers a significant advantage in terms of maintenance. Unlike natural grass that demands regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing, artificial turf is much more maintenance free. It doesn't require watering, mowing, or application of fertilizers and pesticides, saving both time and money. Simply blow away leaves occasionally and brush the fibers as needed. Additionally, synthetic turf is resistant to pests and diseases, eliminating the need for lawn care products.

Aesthetic Appeal:

Artificial grass has come a long way in replicating the appearance of real grass blades. Modern synthetic turf closely resembles natural grass in color, texture, and density, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces. However, some purists argue that nothing can truly match the beauty of a well-maintained natural lawn, especially in terms of the natural habitat it provides for insects and small animals.

UV Resistance:

UV resistance is another advantage of artificial grass, as most other synthetic lawn and turf products are designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without fading or deteriorating. This UV resistance ensures that the vibrant green color of artificial grass remains intact over time, maintaining its aesthetic appeal and visual consistency throughout its lifespan. Additionally, UV-resistant artificial grass is less susceptible to damage from sun exposure, ensuring long-term durability and performance.

Durability:

Synthetic turf is known for its durability and resilience, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as sports fields and playgrounds. Unlike natural grass that can become worn and patchy over time, artificial grass maintains its lush green appearance even under heavy use. Properly maintained artificial lawns can withstand years of foot traffic without showing signs of wear and tear.

Pet Friendliness:

Pet owners often appreciate the benefits of artificial grass, particularly its durability. Pet-friendly artificial grass is designed to allow for easy cleanup of pet waste and is typically made from materials that are non-toxic and easy to sanitize. Dogs love playing on artificial turf, and pet turf installations provide a safe and comfortable outdoor space for pets to enjoy.

Pet Odor Concerns

It's important to remember that while regular artificial lawns are considered very low maintenance, pet turf requires consistent sanitizing to remain odorless. Without proper infills drainage and cleaning practices, urine will sit underneath the surface and grow bacteria. So, if you're not up for consistently rinsing and the surface with a sanitizer maybe artificial grass isn't right for you!

Environmental Impact:

While an artificial lawn can be eco friendly and offers water conservation benefits in regions experiencing drought conditions, it raises environmental concerns related to its manufacturing process and disposal. Synthetic turf is often made from plastics, which contribute to air pollution and waste management issues.

Join us in our commitment to sustainability by visiting our webpage dedicated to our recycling initiative for artificial grass. Together, we can make a difference by keeping plastic out of landfills and promoting a circular economy. Learn more about how you can be a part of this important initiative and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

PFAS Claims

In an age where we all want to avoid harmful chemicals, homeowners are more careful than ever. There have been concerns about the presence of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in artificial grass, particularly in the rubber infill historically used for cushioning. While some installations have indeed utilized rubber infill containing PFAS in the past, this practice is becoming outdated due to its environmental and health impacts. Additionally, the overall risk of exposure to PFAS from artificial grass is minimal compared to other sources in daily life.

PFAS are found in various everyday items like food packaging and cosmetics, and while trace amounts may be present in some artificial grass products, studies suggest they pose limited health risks. Manufacturers are increasingly shifting towards PFAS-free infill materials, such as natural alternatives like cork and walnut shell, which offer comparable performance without the environmental concerns associated with rubber infill.

In essence, while concerns about PFAS in artificial grass are valid, the industry is actively addressing them by moving towards safer and more sustainable infill options. Homeowners can now enjoy the benefits of artificial grass without compromising their health or the environment.

Weather Resilience:

Artificial grass exhibits remarkable resilience to various weather conditions, making it a reliable landscaping option for diverse climates. Unlike natural grass, which can become patchy and brown during periods of drought or heavy rainfall, synthetic turf maintains its lush green appearance year-round, regardless of weather fluctuations. This weather resilience ensures that homeowners and property managers can enjoy and maintain a vibrant and inviting outdoor space regardless of environmental conditions and climate change.

Heat Retention:

One of the criticisms leveled against artificial grass is its tendency to retain heat, especially in regions with high temperatures. Unlike natural grass, which stays relatively cool even in direct sunlight, synthetic turf can absorb and retain heat, potentially causing discomfort for individuals and pets. Cooling measures such as shaded areas, or opting for low density/lighter-colored turf products can mitigate heat buildup on artificial lawns.

Artificial Turf Magnification

Customizable Shapes and Sizes:

One of the key advantages of artificial grass is its versatility in terms of installation and design. Unlike natural grass, which may struggle to grow in irregular or confined spaces, synthetic turf can be easily cut and shaped to fit any area or contour. Whether it's a small backyard, rooftop terrace, or narrow pathway, artificial grass can be customized to create a seamless and visually appealing landscape that maximizes usable outdoor space.

This flexibility in design allows homeowners and landscape architects to unleash their creativity and transform even the most challenging spaces into vibrant green oases. From curved borders and intricate patterns to precise cutouts for trees and flower beds, artificial grass offers endless possibilities for customization and personalization. Additionally, synthetic turf can be installed on various surfaces, including balconies, decking, and gravel, expanding its application beyond traditional lawn areas. Get a free quote in just a few clicks below!

Infill Materials:

The choice of infill material can significantly impact the performance and environmental sustainability of artificial grass. While crumb rubber made from recycled tires has been a popular choice in the past, concerns about its environmental and health impacts have led to the development of alternative infill materials. Natural infills such as cork, coconut husk, and walnut shell are gaining popularity due to their sustainability and safety. These natural materials offer comparable performance characteristics to rubber infill while minimizing environmental risks and enhancing the overall sustainability of artificial grass installations.

Water Savings:

Artificial grass is touted as a water-saving alternative to natural turf, particularly in areas facing water scarcity and drought conditions. By eliminating the need for watering, synthetic lawns contribute to water conservation efforts and reduce reliance on irrigation systems. Not only are you aiding in saving a scarce resource, but you'll save money on your water bill! 

Closing

Overall, artificial grass presents a low-maintenance alternative to natural grass with several benefits including less water usage, durability, and pet-friendliness. However, it's essential to weigh these advantages against sustainability concerns, heat retention issues, and the initial cost of installation. Ultimately, the decision to opt for artificial grass or natural grass depends on individual preferences and budget constraints.

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