Residential Artificial GrassArtificial Turf GreensArtificial Turf Grassturf
February 08, 2019
Written by
Troy Scott
Although most people tend to use the terms “artificial turf” and “artificial grass” interchangeably, each name actually refers to a different type of synthetic grass. Turf is used to describe sports grass, which is shorter. Artificial grass is the officially correct term for landscape grass, which is longer and fluffier. Back when AstroTurf was first invented we didn’t make distinctions like this, because there was just one product. And, frankly, not a very good one at that. AstroTurf was green – though not a shade normally associated with living grass. And it had a nappy texture that no one mistook for the real thing. Advances in science and technology have revolutionized the synthetic grass industry. We now have myriad different products, each one specifically designed for a different grassy purpose. With that, we can distinguish between artificial turf for sports and artificial grass for lawns and landscaping. What does that mean for you? Artificial turf designed for sports is tough, tough, tough. It has to be, to withstand the volume of running feet, cleats, and types of grinding plant-and-turn moves players make during a hectic game. It is also far safer than natural grass, reducing injuries under any conditions and also allowing play to continue when conditions are wet. When we talk about sports and turf, we think about teams of players and expansive play fields. However, there are styles of artificial turf that are ideal for “smaller” sports that are enormously popular here in the Bay Area. We’re talking about specialized installations such as backyard putting greens and bocce ball courts, even tennis courts. Where artificial turf is action-oriented, artificial grass is the “good looks” side of the equation. That’s not to suggest that these longer, softer products aren’t equally durable, but they’re designed to provide maximum aesthetic appeal, too. We call it “grass,” but the product actually has three components.My, how times have changed!
Artificial turf
Artificial grass
The most important thing to know is that not all artificial grass is the same. Materials and workmanship used in manufacturing both determine the quality and value of the final product. Professional installation assures maximum longevity and performance.
Artificial grass makes a gorgeous lawn, plus there are specialized varieties that are ideal for children’s playgrounds and backyard play areas or for at-home dog runs and doggie daycare facilities. And just as artificial turf is safer than natural grass for players, our artificial grass for kids is safer than real grass, too.
So many things in common
Despite their distinct differences, artificial turf/grass have numerous common traits – all the things that make them popular with all types of property owners:
- No water waste or expense
- Virtually no maintenance or associated ongoing expense
- No build-in toxins or grass allergens (pollen)
- No harmful residues from chemical applications
- No need for sports facilities or event venues to repeatedly rip up and replace expensive sod
- Homeowners can – finally! – reclaim their weekends
There are no so many variations on synthetic grass products, we like to say that Heavenly Greens offers 50 shades of green. Picking the right one for your application can feel overwhelming, so give us a call and we’ll walk you through it. Better yet, come visit our spacious showroom, where you can not only see but feel samples of the grass varieties we offer. Whether you’re in the market for artificial turf or artificial grass, we’re pretty sure you’ll be amazed at the options.
As a seasoned expert in synthetic grass technology and its diverse applications, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and expertise to the discussion on residential artificial grass, artificial turf greens, and artificial turf grass. My experience extends beyond theoretical understanding, as I've closely followed the evolution of synthetic grass from its early days, such as AstroTurf, to the contemporary landscape where distinctions between artificial turf and artificial grass have become crucial.
The article rightly points out that the terms "artificial turf" and "artificial grass" are often used interchangeably but refer to distinct types of synthetic grass. Turf is specifically designed for sports applications, characterized by its shorter length. In contrast, artificial grass, the correct term for landscape grass, boasts a longer and fluffier appearance, prioritizing aesthetics.
The transformation in the synthetic grass industry over the years is remarkable, driven by advancements in science and technology. Initially, AstroTurf represented a rudimentary version, lacking the realism associated with natural grass. However, contemporary synthetic grass products are diverse and purpose-specific, catering to various needs such as sports fields, residential lawns, and landscaping.
Let's delve into the key concepts introduced in the article:
Artificial Turf:
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Durability and Safety: Engineered for sports, artificial turf is exceptionally tough to withstand the demands of running feet, cleats, and dynamic player movements. It ensures player safety by reducing injuries and allows gameplay even in wet conditions.
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Versatility: Beyond traditional sports fields, artificial turf finds applications in smaller sports installations like backyard putting greens, bocce ball courts, and tennis courts.
Artificial Grass:
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Aesthetics and Variety: Artificial grass focuses on the visual appeal of a landscape. Although referred to as "grass," it comprises three components. Notably, not all artificial grass is the same, and the quality depends on materials, workmanship, and professional installation.
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Specialized Varieties: Apart from creating stunning lawns, artificial grass caters to specific needs such as children's playgrounds, backyard play areas, home dog runs, and doggie daycare facilities. It offers a safer alternative to natural grass for children and pets.
Common Traits:
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Environmental Benefits: Both artificial turf and grass share common advantages, including water conservation, minimal maintenance, and no associated expenses. They eliminate water waste, reduce the need for ongoing maintenance, and don't require harmful chemical applications.
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Safety and Health: Synthetic grass eliminates potential hazards like grass allergens (pollen) and harmful residues from chemical applications. Artificial turf is safer for players, and artificial grass for kids is safer than real grass.
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Time and Cost Savings: Property owners benefit from reclaimed weekends, as synthetic grass requires virtually no maintenance, offering a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to natural grass.
In conclusion, the dynamic landscape of synthetic grass products provides property owners with a range of options, from resilient artificial turf for sports to aesthetically pleasing artificial grass for residential and landscaping purposes. For personalized guidance in choosing the right synthetic grass product, professional advice or a visit to a showroom can be invaluable.