Categories
BACKYARD

Is your front lawn looking a little lackluster? Want to boost your home’s curb appeal without spending countless hours maintaining your yard? It might be time for you to go faux. As artificial grass installers, we’ve witnessed the incredible transformations that happen when homeowners switch to this low-maintenance, high-impact landscaping solution.

Here are some design ideas to help you visualize your own front lawn transformation:

1. Geometric Patterns

Create a striking, modern look by incorporating geometric patterns into your artificial grass installation. Consider using different turf colors or blade heights to create shapes like circles, squares, or diamonds. This unique design approach will make your front yard stand out and showcase your creativity.

2. Raised Planter Boxes

Combine artificial grass with raised planter boxes for a beautiful and functional front yard design. Install the planter boxes along the perimeter of your property or create a centerpiece near your entrance. Fill them with colorful flowers, shrubs, or even small trees for a pop of natural beauty. The artificial grass will provide a clean, manicured look around the planter boxes, making maintenance a breeze.

3. Meandering Pathways

Instead of a straight walkway from the sidewalk to your front door, consider installing a curving, meandering path using artificial grass and hardscaping materials like pavers or stepping stones. This design adds visual interest and a sense of discovery to your front yard.

Line the path with low-voltage lighting to ensure safety and create a warm, inviting ambiance in the evenings. Plant colorful flowers, shrubs, or ornamental grasses along the path’s edges to soften the hardscaping and provide pops of color against the lush, green artificial turf.

4. Terraced Levels

If your front yard has a slope, think about creating terraced levels with artificial grass. Use retaining walls made of stone, brick, or wood to create the different levels, and install the artificial turf on each level for a lush, green appearance. This design not only adds visual appeal but also helps with erosion control and provides a more usable outdoor space.

5. Incorporate a Seating Area

Transform your front lawn into an inviting outdoor living space by incorporating a small seating area. Install a cozy bench or a couple of chairs on a patch of artificial grass, creating a spot to relax, enjoy your morning coffee, or chat with neighbors.Surround the seating area with a border of pavers or stones, and add some potted plants or a small water feature to enhance the ambiance. 

6. Create a Topiary Garden

For a truly eye-catching front lawn, consider creating a topiary garden with artificial grass. Topiaries are ornamental plants or shrubs trimmed into decorative shapes, such as spirals, balls, or even animal figures.

Install artificial grass throughout your front lawn and place the topiaries strategically to create a stunning visual display. You can also incorporate other elements, such as a small fountain or a garden statue, to add depth and interest to the design.

7. Design a Drought-Tolerant Landscape

If you live in an area prone to drought or water restrictions, you may want to plan a front lawn that showcases the beauty of drought-tolerant plants and artificial grass. This eco-friendly approach not only saves water but also creates a unique and striking appearance.

Install artificial turf as the foundation of your landscape and then incorporate a variety of drought-tolerant plants, such as succulents, cacti, or ornamental grasses. Use decorative rocks, gravel, or mulch to create visual interest and contrast against the greenery.

Partner With Artificial Grass Professionals

At Field Turf Landscape, we have the expertise and experience to bring your front lawn vision to life. From selecting the perfect artificial turf variety to incorporating hardscaping, decorative elements, and drought-tolerant plants, we’ll guide you through every step to ensure a stunning, low-maintenance front lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood. Contact us today to schedule a consultation by calling 866-352-4575 or sending us a message.

Categories
PETS

For the most part, the best synthetic turf for dogs is a “set it and forget it” solution for homeowners. You don’t have to worry about the usual issues with dogs and natural lawns like dead grass, holes, and worn paths.

However, pet turf still needs a bit of love to stay its best. Let’s break down the simple cleaning and maintenance steps that will keep your artificial turf vibrant for years of pet-friendly enjoyment.

The Benefits of a Regular Cleaning Routine for Pet Turf

Outdoor turf for dogs requires a bit more maintenance than regular installations simply because of the added factor of pet waste.  Here’s why a consistent cleaning routine is so valuable:

  • ● Hygiene: Pet waste, if left unattended, can harbor bacteria and unpleasant odors. A good cleaning routine ensures a clean and safe environment for both your pets and your family.
  • ● Aesthetics: Removing debris, brushing up the grass blades, and rinsing away stains will keep your turf looking bright, inviting, and well-maintained.
  • ● Longevity: Proper maintenance removes dirt and debris that can become trapped within the grass fibers over time, helping to extend the lifespan of your investment.
  • ● Drainage: Cleaning keeps the turf’s drainage system functional, preventing unpleasant puddles.

4 Essential Tools for the Job

You’ll need the following for maintaining artificial turf for pets and synthetic grass in general:

  1. Broom: A stiff-bristled push broom is your best friend for removing leaves, twigs and larger debris. Avoid metal rakes which could damage the grass blades.
  2. Leaf Blower: These are excellent for quick and efficient removal of leaves and light debris.
  3. Garden Hose: A regular garden hose with a spray nozzle will do wonders for rinsing and refreshing.
  4. Artificial Grass Cleaner: Look for enzyme-based cleaners specifically designed for pet spaces. These break down pet urine, eliminate odors, and are safe for your pets.

How to Clean Your Artificial Turf: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your artificial turf clean and fresh is surprisingly easy! Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to get the job done:

  1. Solid Waste Removal: The first step is always prompt removal of solid pet waste. Use disposal bags or a pooper-scooper to clear this away quickly.
  2. First Rinse: Give your turf a thorough rinse with the hose to remove loose debris, dust, and any light urine residue.
  3. Enzyme Cleaner (optional): For heavy-use areas or lingering stains, pre-treat with your enzyme cleaner. Follow the product directions for dilution and dwell time.
  4. Scrub (Optional): If you’re dealing with stains or stubborn residue, gentle scrubbing with a mild detergent solution and a soft-bristled brush can help.
  5. Rinse, Rinse, Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the entire area to remove all cleaners, any remaining debris and create a fresh surface.
  6. Fluff: Once dry, give your turf a quick brush or use a leaf blower to perk those blades back up, restoring a vibrant look.

Maintenance Tips: Beyond Cleaning

Alongside your cleaning routine, these tips will help keep your artificial turf in excellent shape:

  • ● Rake it Up: Regularly brushing the turf against the grain helps the blades stay upright and prevents matting.
  • ● Deodorizers: Products with Zeolite infill are great for absorbing extra odor. You can also try applying a light mist of diluted white vinegar to problem areas.
  • ● Watch Out for Weeds: Stray weeds can penetrate the turf’s backing. Remove these promptly by hand to prevent spread.
  • ● Hose it Down: Even if there’s no pet activity, a light weekly or bi-weekly hose down refreshes your turf, removes pollen, and helps the fibers stay upright.

FAQs About Cleaning Artificial Grass for Dogs

“Can I power-wash my artificial grass?” 

While possible, it’s best to avoid this. High pressure can damage the fibers and dislodge infill.

“What about stains from other sources?”

 Most stains can be treated with a combination of enzyme cleaners, soap and water, and scrubbing. For tougher stains, consult the turf manufacturer’s care recommendations.

“Will my dog always track dirt indoors?” 

This can be minimized by rinsing the turf regularly and providing a designated “potty” area. A paw-cleaning station near the door can also help.

Contact Us Today

Artificial grass gives you the peace of mind that your dog has a safe, low-maintenance play space while keeping your yard looking its best.  By following these simple cleaning and care tips, you’ll enjoy years of worry-free fun with your furry companions.At FieldTurf Landscape, we’re passionate about helping you create the ideal outdoor space for your entire family – pets included! We’d love to support you in creating the ideal yard for your pets. Call us today at 866-352-4575 or send us a message to learn more.

Categories
COMMERCIAL

Building an amazing playground involves more than just the swings and slides. The surface is a vital piece of the puzzle. It can affect everything from a playground’s safety to how much work it takes to maintain it. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of popular choices—concrete, natural grass, mulch, and synthetic grass—so you can make the most informed decision for your space.

Concrete for Playgrounds

Let’s start with the classic choice: concrete. It offers durability, low maintenance, and a flat, predictable surface for activities like wheeled toys. 

However, its unforgiving hardness significantly increases the risk of injuries from falls. Concrete also lacks visual appeal and doesn’t contribute to the natural feel of a playground environment.

It also contributes to the heat island effect with its heat absorption making surrounding areas hotter. Over time, cracks and damage are inevitable, leading to potentially expensive repairs.

  • Pros:
    • ● Extremely Durable
    • ● Minimal Upkeep
    • ● Smooth Surface for Some Activities
  • Cons:
    • ● High Risk of Injury From Falls
    • ● Visually Unappealing
    • ● Contributes Little to a Natural Play Environment

Natural Grass for Playgrounds

Natural grass provides a familiar, soft feel underfoot and offers a connection to nature.  However, the realities of playground wear and tear often make it a less-than-ideal choice.  

For instance, high foot traffic quickly wears away grass, creating bare patches and potential tripping hazards.  Weather heavily influences its condition – rain creates muddy patches, while drought leads to dry, uneven ground.  

Beyond these challenges, natural grass requires high maintenance through regular mowing, watering, and reseeding. It can also harbor pests like ticks and mosquitoes, and its pollen can trigger allergies in some children.  

  • Pros:
    • ● Soft Underfoot
    • ● Natural, Green Aesthetic
  • Cons:
    • ● Wears Quickly, Needs Frequent Reseeding
    • ● Requires Intensive Maintenance (mowing, watering)
    • ● Becomes Muddy After Rain
    • ● Patchy and Uneven in Dry Weather

Playground Mulch

Shredded wood, bark, or recycled rubber mulch offers a visually appealing and affordable alternative. While it absorbs some impact, mulch decomposes over time, requiring constant replenishment. 

Loose mulch creates uneven surfaces and tripping hazards. Small pieces can also choke young children, requiring close supervision. 

Certain wood mulch splinters; depending on the material, mulch attracts insects.

  • Pros:
    • ● Affordable
    • ● Better Shock Absorption Than Concrete
    • ● Natural Appearance
  • Cons:
    • ● Requires Regular Replenishment
    • ● Can Be a Choking Hazard
    • ● Some Types Cause Splinters
    • ● Attracts Insects

Synthetic Turf for Playgrounds

Unlike natural grass, synthetic turf features an underlayment designed to absorb the impact of falls while protecting the turf itself. No matter your playground’s traffic and usage level, artificial grass remains consistent throughout the year, unlike mulch or dirt that can compact or become uneven.

Synthetic grass also eliminates the worry of mud patches or brown spots that plague natural grass, especially after rain or during dry spells.  

The low maintenance aspect is another significant benefit – a simple rinse removes dirt or debris, freeing up time and resources for other aspects of your playground. 

While the initial investment can be higher than some other options, its long lifespan and minimal upkeep can balance that out in the long term.  

  • Pros:
    • ● Excellent Shock Absorption for Fall Safety
    • ● Consistent,Non-Compacting Cushioning
    • ● Maintains Vibrant Appearance Year-Round
    • ● Requires Minimal Maintenance
    • ● Durable and Long-Lasting
  • Cons:
    • ● Higher Initial Investment
    • ● Safety Features Like Playground Turf Padding Cost Extra

Book a Free Consultation

Building a playground shouldn’t be a guessing game– especially when it comes to the surface. Your choice has a lasting impact on the safety, fun, and overall experience of your play area. 

If you’re searching for an option that’s as safe as it’s tough and beautiful, with minimal headaches to boot, consider playground turf installation.Learn more by calling us at 866-352-4575 today or messaging us to book a free consultation with a FieldTurf Landscape expert!

Categories
RESIDENTIAL

Installing FieldTurf artificial grass for homes is a smart way to upgrade your outdoor space. While it’s possible to achieve a flawless DIY installation, getting the design right is a huge part of the process. 

It sets the stage for a smooth installation and helps ensure your artificial lawn looks amazing and functions perfectly for years to come. Let’s get you started with this quick guide to planning your synthetic turf installation.

Why You Should Take Your Time with Artificial Grass Design

Think of the design phase as the blueprint that guides your entire project. A well-thought-out design ensures that you:

  • Maximize Material Usage: Strategic planning helps you order the right amount of artificial grass and other materials, minimizing waste and saving money.
  • Achieve Seamless Aesthetics: Considering factors like grain direction ensures a natural and uniform look. 
  • Manage Drainage: The drainage system is one of the most important parts of installing artificial turf for homes. Without proper drainage, all sorts of issues could pop up, like flooding, 
  • Craft a Plan: Proper planning guarantees your lawn won’t become a waterlogged mess during heavy rains. 
  • Anticipate Challenges: You’ll identify existing sprinkler lines, protruding roots, or other obstacles early on. All of these need to be removed or adjusted in order to create a smooth and level foundation for artificial grass.

3 Design Considerations for Artificial Grass

1. Measurements and Layout: Precision Is Key

Accurate measurements and a well-conceived layout are the cornerstones of your artificial grass project. Remember the golden rule: measure twice, cut once. This applies to installing artificial turf for homes as well.

  • Grab your tape measure: Measure the entire project area meticulously. Sketch a detailed diagram and double-check your measurements.
  • Plan the Turf Layout: Consider the grain direction of your artificial grass. Aim to minimize seams and ensure all turf sections run in the same direction for a cohesive appearance.

2. Drainage: Ensuring a Healthy Lawn

Even artificial lawns need proper drainage to avoid issues like standing water and uneven settling. Consider how your yard currently handles water and make adjustments if needed.

  • Evaluate Existing Drainage: Observe how well your yard drains naturally. Standing water will damage your artificial grass and can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
  • Plan for Drainage Solutions: You may need to grade your lawn to create a subtle slope, install French drains, or add catch basins to manage runoff.

3. Soil Condition and Prep: Creating a Solid Foundation

The type and condition of your existing soil will dictate how much preparation is needed before installing the artificial grass base and turf. Take the time to get this step right.

  • Test Your Soil: Is your soil compacted or loose? Address any compaction issues and remove large rocks or debris that could compromise your final result.
  • Moisture Matters: Wait for excessively wet soil to dry out. This will ensure proper compaction of your base materials and prevent future settling issues.

3 Integrating Essentials and Aesthetics

1. Irrigation Systems and Utilities: Protecting the Essentials

Knowing where your existing irrigation and utility lines are is crucial before any excavating work begins. Take this step seriously to avoid costly and dangerous mistakes.

  • Map Your Irrigation System: Locate all existing sprinkler heads, drip lines, and bubblers. If you have plants that still need watering, you may need to modify your irrigation system.
  • Call Before You Dig: Contact your utility providers to have underground lines marked, preventing damage and potential hazards.

2. Damage Prevention: Thinking Ahead

Protective measures during the design phase can save you significant headaches down the line, whether deterring rodents or safeguarding your lawn from playful pets.

  • Deter Rodent Visitors: Consider laying galvanized mesh before your base material, which will prevent burrowing critters from damaging your lawn.
  • Safeguard Against Pets: Secure the perimeter of your turf with bender board or treated lumber to deter dogs from digging and protect your investment.

3. Design Elements and Borders: Creating a Cohesive Look

Planning how your artificial lawn will integrate with existing landscape features adds polish and avoids awkward transitions. Factor in borders for a clean, finished appearance.

  • Work with Existing Features: Plan how your lawn will interact with patios, walkways, and other elements.
  • Add Borders and Edging: These materials define your lawn and prevent base material from migrating. Install borders before laying the turf for accurate measurements and minimal adjustments.

Learn More

Remember: If any part of the design phase feels overwhelming, call us at 866-352-4575 or message the FieldTurf Landscape team anytime. DIY installers are some of our favorite customers! We’d love to help you with anything you need, from installation guidance to selecting the right products and finding a FieldTurf Landscape dealer near you.

Categories
BACKYARD

Synthetic turf offers a beautiful blank canvas for landscaping. It’s much more versatile than natural grass since you don’t have to worry about keeping it alive around your designs. It’s also a wonderful way to add green to any part of your home.

Below, we list some of the year’s favorite artificial grass front yard ideas, from live plants to xeriscapes. 

Tip If you try any of these designs and realize you don’t like it, a lawn makeover is a breeze with synthetic grass.

1. Front Lawn Planter Boxes

Planter boxes beautifully complement artificial grass for yards, breaking up the space with vibrant colors and natural textures. Consider professionally installed raised beds built from wood, stone, or sleek composites for a custom look that perfectly suits your home’s style. 

Fill your planters with a profusion of flowering plants, lush shrubs, or even a mini edible garden for beauty and function.

  • Design Tips:
    • ● Choose planter materials that complement the architectural style of your home.
    • ● Use a variety of planter sizes and heights to create a dynamic, layered effect.
    • ● Consider seasonal blooms for year-round color and interest.
    • ● Install landscape lighting around your planters for an evening glow.

2. Pavers and Synthetic Turf Combo

Combine the sleekness of pavers with the softness of artificial grass for stunning visual appeal. Opt for pavers that reflect your aesthetic – from rustic to contemporary. 

A professional can install them in dynamic patterns like linear paths, playful checkerboards, or curved designs that wind through your yard. Just say the word and we’ll help you find a FieldTurf Landscape dealer near you!

  • Design Tips
    • ● Define entryways and walkways with paver paths leading to your front door.
    • ● Integrate larger stepping stones within pathways for a natural feel.
    • ● Utilize contrasting paver colors and textures for a bold statement.
    • ● Surround existing trees or garden features with pavers and artificial grass.

3. Artificial Grass and Xeriscaping

For a truly eco-friendly landscape, combine artificial grass’s water-saving properties with xeriscaping’s beauty. 

Choose a mix of drought-tolerant plants, such as vibrant succulents, sculptural cacti, or textured native grasses. Add mulch or decorative rock as ground cover for a polished and environmentally conscious design.

  • Design Tips
    • ● Incorporate a dry creek bed with river rocks for visual interest and drainage.
    • ● Build berms or mounds for varied topography and planting zones.
    • ● Group plants by water needs to simplify irrigation if necessary.
    • ● Choose flowering plants that attract pollinators like butterflies and bees.

More Artificial Grass Design Ideas

  • Water Feature Surround: Install a tranquil water feature and surround it with a lush border of artificial grass for a resort-like feel.
  • Modern Geometric Designs: For a contemporary look, create geometric shapes and patterns using artificial grass in contrasting colors.
  • Elevated Spaces: Install synthetic grass on rooftops, patios, or balconies to transform underutilized spaces into lush havens.

Contact Us Today!

Artificial grass offers a world of creative landscaping possibilities and a maintenance-free lawn. By incorporating features like planter boxes, pavers, xeriscaping, and other design elements, you’ll upgrade your front yard into a space that reflects your personality and welcomes you home.Got questions about switching to FieldTurf Landscape synthetic grass? Contact us today by calling 866-352-4575 or messaging us to book your free consultation.

Categories
GOLF

Artificial putting green turf is designed to mimic the behavior of grass on an actual golf course, from ball roll to bounce and other features. Regular putting greens are a fun addition to any home, but if your goal is serious practice, you need to level it up with some serious challenges. Here are some great ideas to try:

Adding Contours and Slopes with Putting Greens

Most golf courses feature subtle undulations designed to test players’ ability to read the greens and adjust their putting strokes. It’s one of the easiest designs to execute with artificial grass, regardless of your yard’s natural topography.

We recommend informing our FieldTurf Landscape dealers beforehand if you’d like slopes and breaks in your outdoor putting green. This way, we can adjust the ground prep as needed and blend the slopes seamlessly into the overall landscape.

Varying Hole Locations

Getting too comfortable with the same hole location leads to predictable putts. Switch things up to force yourself to adapt to changing lines and speeds.

  • Multiple Cups: Consider having multiple cups installed professionally across your green. This lets you practice different putt lengths, angles, and break reads.
  • Adjustable Cup Systems: Explore adjustable cup systems designed for artificial greens. These offer a flexible way to shift your target without major turf work.

Simulating Different Putting Green Speeds

Stimpmeter readings measure the speed of putting greens. Most course greens range from 9-13, but this can vary drastically.  Again, we can integrate this into the overall design of your putting green installation, so don’t forget to mention it during your free consultation. In the meantime, learn to adjust for different speeds with these techniques:

  • Understanding Your Green: Invest in a Stimpmeter to measure the base speed of your backyard putting green. This gives you a valuable reference point to work with.
  • Rolling Techniques: Use a heavy turf roller to temporarily increase the speed of your green. Rolling with the grain maximizes the effect, while rolling against the grain can subtly slow it down.

Introducing Obstacles

Add a fun twist and test your short game precision with obstacles. This enhances your ability to escape tricky lies and visualize creative shots.

  • Putting Obstacles: Specialized tools like putting gates, ramps, or bunkers force you to adapt your stroke and aim.
  • Creative Courses: Design your own ever-changing obstacle course using movable planters, landscaping rocks, and other objects you already have in your yard and at home. Got kids? Ask them for ideas! It’s a fun way to bond over golf while helping you navigate obstacles on your putting green.

Practicing with Realistic Distractions

Putting on a real course often involves external pressures. Mimic these for better mental toughness:

  • Background Noise: Add music or conversation to your practice environment. Learn to focus and make putts with mild distractions.
  • The Audience Effect: Invite someone to watch you practice. The feeling of observation, even from a friendly source, subtly changes your focus—excellent training for tournament conditions.

Upgrade Your Green Today

Upgrading your backyard putting practice with these realistic challenges will refine your skills for any putting situation. Consistency comes from adaptability, so push yourself further at home to excel on the course. And if you’re ready to create the ultimate backyard training ground to maximize your golf potential, contact us! Let’s get you started with a free consultation when you call us at 866-352-4575 or send us a message.

Categories
RESIDENTIAL

Residential artificial grass has come a long way since those scratchy, plastic-like carpets of the past. The best turf products today look so natural it’s hard to tell them apart from the real thing. And when it comes to maintenance, durability, and safety, artificial grass trumps real grass in almost every way. 

Still, modern artificial grass offers way more than a beautiful, stress-free lawn experience. Here are some features you may not expect from synthetic turf:

1. Advanced Artificial Turf Blade Design

The blades of FieldTurf Landscape products come in various shapes, such as flat, v-shaped, w-shaped, and u-shaped. This allows our turf to resemble the organic and slightly imperfect appearance of real grass, with some blades standing upright, others bending or folding, and some curling or twisting. 

They’re also carefully designed to reflect light in various directions, creating the illusion of depth and texture similar to a natural lawn. To add even more realism, we also have artificial grass with a thatch layer, which looks like the organic layer of dead and decaying grass, roots, and stems between the soil and the green grass blades in a real lawn.

2. Antimicrobial Properties

Worried about sanitation, especially with kids and pets? Our synthetic turf incorporates antimicrobial properties to minimize the growth and spread of bacteria. Aside from keeping turf spaces sanitary, these coatings can also help reduce odor, which is particularly important for pet artificial grass.

3. Pet-Friendly Features

Speaking of pet artificial grass, FieldTurf Landscape artificial grass for dogs is enhanced with:

  • Superior Drainage: Efficient drainage systems handle pet waste, preventing lingering odors and keeping surfaces sanitary.
  • Resilient Fibers: Tough, durable fibers resist clawing, digging, and the rough-and-tumble play of pets.
  • Specialized Infill: Some infill options neutralize the ammonia in pet urine, further reducing odor issues.

4. Shock Absorption

You can add foam pads to FieldTurf Landscape artificial grass for extra protection in children’s play areas. This can help to cushion falls and reduce injury risk, especially around playground equipment.

5. Fire Resistance

FieldTurf Landscape products are designed with fire-resistant properties to boost the safety of our artificial grass for residential homes. When exposed to an open flame, our synthetic turf melts instead of burns, which can help slow the spread of fire.

6. UV Resistance

Our UV-stabilized fibers ensure your artificial grass retains its vibrant color over time. FieldTurf Landscape products also come with extensive warranties against fading and discoloration, demonstrating our confidence in the quality of our turf.

Book Your Free Consultation

At FieldTurf Landscape, we believe in transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional, and sustainable havens. Our roots in professional sports fields have shaped our dedication to innovation, durability, and performance.

To put it simply, FieldTurf Landscape artificial grass can help you create living areas that you truly love and enjoy.
Contact us to explore options, receive a personalized quote, or find a qualified installer near you. We can also help you develop the perfect backyard landscape design with artificial grass – call 866-352-4575 or send us a message to get started!

Categories
COMMERCIAL

Many people dream of remaining independent in their own homes as they age. This concept, called “aging in place,” is becoming increasingly popular across the US.

Aging in place involves modifying your home and surroundings to ensure safety, accessibility, and comfort for the foreseeable future. This might include installing bathroom grab bars, widening doorways, or switching to one-story living. 

Landscaping choices can significantly impact your ability to age comfortably at home. 

Natural Lawns Can Be Unsafe for Older Individuals

Traditional lawns, while beautiful, require a surprising amount of physical exertion to maintain. Mowing, weeding, and edging can become difficult tasks for aging individuals.

Not only is it physically demanding, but uneven terrain, hidden roots, muddy areas, and slippery surfaces (especially when wet) can pose serious fall risks. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and hospitalization in older adults and a poorly maintained lawn can dramatically increase those risks.

Additionally, many lawn care routines involve potentially harmful chemicals, such as fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. These chemicals can linger on the grass, potentially creating health and skin sensitivity concerns for seniors or those with compromised immune systems.

Artificial Turf and Aging in Place

In contrast, FieldTurf artificial grass offers several advantages that make it a safer and more practical landscaping choice for aging in place:

  • Reduced Physical Strain: Artificial grass eliminates the need for mowing, weeding, and fertilizing. This translates to less time spent bending, kneeling, and lifting, which can become increasingly challenging with age.
  • Improved Safety: Artificial grass provides a consistent surface, reducing the risk of trips and falls. You can also add extra support with foam padding and infill materials that provide a softer landing in case of accidents.
  • Accessibility: Traditional lawns can become overgrown and difficult to navigate. Artificial grass remains consistently even and allows for easy maneuvering of walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids.
  • Year-Round Beauty: Unlike natural grass, artificial turf stays green and lush all year round, regardless of the season or weather conditions. This eliminates the worry of dead patches or muddy walkways during wet seasons.
  • Versatility: Artificial grass doesn’t mean giving up on your love for natural elements. It can be easily integrated with raised garden beds for vegetables or flowers, potted plants, and other natural landscaping features. The stable surface makes it easier to work on these gardening projects comfortably and safely.

It’s important to note that artificial grass does come with an initial investment. However, the long-term savings on maintenance, combined with the safety and accessibility benefits, can make it a worthwhile choice for those planning to age in place.

Learn More

At FieldTurf Landscape, everyone deserves to enjoy their home for as long as possible. If you want to create a safe, comfortable, and beautiful outdoor living space that supports the goal of aging in place, artificial grass might be the perfect choice. 

Call 866-352-4575 or message us to learn more about your options. We can also recommend FieldTurf Landscape dealers and installers near you. 

Categories
BACKYARD

Artificial grass has become incredibly popular as a low-maintenance, year-round green solution for lawns, landscaping, and even sports fields. But when shopping for artificial turf yard products, you’ll likely encounter technical terms that sound more like a foreign language than a backyard upgrade.

We love sharing what we know here at FieldTurf Landscape, so today, we’re explaining some of the most common turf terms you’ll encounter during this process.

Why the Jargon Matters

Understanding these terms allows you to:

  • Compare Products: Technical specifications help you compare different artificial turf options side by side.
  • Match Turf to Your Needs: Do you need a durable surface for a pet area, artificial grass for backyard use, or a realistic putting green? The jargon tells you what to look for.
  • Assess Quality and Value: Understanding factors like face weight and denier allows you to evaluate if you’re getting a good price for the quality of the turf.

7 Artificial Grass Terms You Should Know

  1. Pile Height: This refers to the length of the individual grass blades, measured in millimeters (mm). Pile height significantly impacts the look and feel of artificial turf for backyard use, front lawns, and other types of landscapes.
  • • Shorter piles (25-35mm) offer a manicured, freshly-mowed appearance.
  • • Longer piles (35mm+) create a lush, natural-grass look.
  1. Face Weight: Measured in ounces per square yard, this tells you the density of the yarn used in the turf. Higher face weight generally means a denser, more durable, and more luxurious-feeling product.
  1. Thatch: Many artificial grass products have a layer of brown or tan curly fibers at the base, mimicking natural grass thatch. Thatch helps the blades stand upright and adds to a realistic look.
  1. Backing: This is the foundation of the artificial turf. Look for these keywords:
  • • Polyurethane backed: Strong and durable, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas.
  • • Permeable backing: Features drainage holes to allow water to flow through, crucial for outdoor installations.
  1. Infill: Small granules of sand, rubber, or other materials are often brushed into the turf after installation. Infill helps:
  • • Keep the blades upright for a natural appearance
  • • Weigh down the turf
  • • Provide cushioning and stability
  1. Denier: Denier measures the thickness of individual yarn fibers. Higher denier typically translates to more durable yarn.
  1. Gauge: Refers to the spacing between rows of stitches in the artificial turf backing. A smaller gauge means stitches are closer together, resulting in a denser turf.

Don’t Get Lost in Translation

At FieldTurf Landscape, we understand that choosing artificial grass can feel overwhelming. That’s why our experts are here to simplify the process and guide you toward the best solution for your specific needs. We offer a wide range of premium artificial grass products and unmatched knowledge to make your project successful.

Call 866-352-4575 or message us today for a personalized consultation. If you’re outside our direct service area, we’ll gladly connect you with a trusted FieldTurf Landscape dealer or installer near you. Looking forward to our chat!

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GOLF

Home putting greens are a wonderful way to elevate your golf game and add a touch of luxury to your outdoor space. But turning that dream into reality requires more than buying some artificial turf. A quality installation makes all the difference, so choosing the right installer is key. Here’s a guide on how to find and vet the best backyard putting green installers:

Essential Putting Green Qualities to Consider

Before you start searching, it’s helpful to understand the qualities that set a great installer apart.

  • Experience: Look for an installer with a proven track record, specifically with backyard putting greens. General landscaping experience isn’t always enough.
  • Technical Expertise: Installing the best artificial putting green requires in-depth expertise in ground preparation, drainage solutions, turf selection, and contour creation for realistic play.
  • Design Skills: A good installer should be able to work with you to design a green that fits your space, skill level, and aesthetic preferences.
  • Communication: Choose an installer with strong communication skills who will keep you informed throughout the entire process.
  • Project Portfolio: Reviewing examples of past work lets you see their approach, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

Vetting Your Potential Putting Green Artificial Grass Installers

Once you understand the qualities you want in an installer, it’s time to vet candidates.

  • Referrals: Ask friends, family, golf buddies, or your local golf course if they have recommendations for reputable installers.
  • Online Research: Search for local companies specializing in backyard putting green installations. Read online reviews on platforms like Google and social media.
  • Ask the Right Questions: When interviewing potential installers, ask about:
    • Years of experience in putting green installation
    • Types of drainage systems they use
    • Available artificial putting green turf options and their recommendations based on your needs
    • Process for creating contours and breaks in the green
    • Warranty coverage for their work
  • Request Detailed Quotes: A comprehensive quote will outline materials, labor, timeline, and any additional costs. Compare quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
  • Check Certifications: Top manufacturers of putting green turf offer certifications for installers. Choosing a certified installer ensures they have the training and knowledge the turf manufacturer recommends.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

  • Vague Estimates: Beware of installers who provide estimates without a site visit, online meeting, or don’t offer a detailed quote. 
  • Subpar Communication: Poor communication during the initial stage signals potential trouble during the project.
  • Limited Portfolio: An installer without a strong portfolio of past projects could indicate inexperience or lack of quality work.
  • Pushy Sales Tactics: A reputable installer should be informative and helpful, not pressuring you into a quick decision.

Find a Trusted FieldTurf Landscape Installer Near You

Choosing the right backyard putting green installer is an investment in the enjoyment and longevity of your green. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. If you have a good feeling about an installer and their work aligns with your vision, you’re on the right track to having a putting green you’ll love for years to come.

You can also shortcut the process by choosing one of our FieldTurf Landscape partners near you. We vet our dealers carefully so that you can trust their expertise and service quality.

Use our Dealer Locator to find a FieldTurf Landscape installer near you or contact us by calling 866-352-4575 or sending us a message today.