Turf and Artificial Turf
Real Turf vs. Astro Turf: Pros and Cons
When it comes to creating a beautiful, lush lawn, homeowners are often faced with the decision between natural real turf (also known as natural grass) and synthetic AstroTurf (artificial grass). Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, so it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision for your garden. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each, followed by why Manning & Sons is the best company to install either option for you.
Real Turf (Natural Grass)
Pros:
1. Natural Beauty and Feel
Real grass provides a soft, authentic feel underfoot that artificial turf simply can’t match. It creates a true “green space” in your garden with a natural appearance.
2. Eco-Friendly
Natural grass is good for the environment. It absorbs carbon dioxide, releases oxygen, and helps with water absorption. It also encourages biodiversity by supporting various insects and wildlife.
3. Temperature Control
Real grass keeps your garden cooler compared to artificial turf, especially during the summer months. The natural transpiration process of grass helps regulate the temperature of your outdoor space.
4. Air Quality Benefits
Grass helps filter the air by trapping dust and pollutants, improving the overall air quality in your garden and surrounding area.
5. Cost-Effective Initial Investment
The initial installation cost of natural grass is generally lower than artificial turf, especially if you already have a garden ready for turfing.
Cons:
1. Maintenance
Real turf requires regular upkeep, including mowing, watering, fertilizing, aerating, and dealing with pests or diseases. It can be time-consuming and costly over the long term.
2. Watering Requirements
Natural grass needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods, which can lead to higher water bills and may not be the most eco-friendly option in water-scarce areas.
3. Seasonal Growth
Grass can be less visually appealing during the colder months, often turning brown or dormant in winter. In some regions, it may be difficult to maintain a healthy lawn year-round.
4. Vulnerable to Wear
High foot traffic, pets, and heavy use can damage real grass, resulting in patches, bald spots, and wear.
Astro Turf (Artificial Grass)
Pros:
1. Low Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of artificial grass is the minimal maintenance required. There’s no mowing, no fertilizing, no watering, and no need to deal with pests. Simply brush it occasionally to keep it looking fresh.
2. Year-Round Appeal
AstroTurf stays green and lush throughout the year, regardless of the weather. It’s ideal for those who want a perfect lawn at all times without worrying about seasonal changes.
3. Durability
Artificial grass is highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it a great option for gardens that are used often, like playgrounds or sports areas. It’s resistant to damage from pets, kids, or outdoor activities.
4. Water Conservation
As it doesn’t require watering, artificial grass is an eco-friendly choice in areas where water conservation is important. It’s also a good solution for regions with water restrictions.
5. Pet-Friendly
AstroTurf is an excellent choice for pet owners, as it’s easy to clean and doesn’t develop mud patches. Most artificial turf is designed to be resistant to pet waste and odours.
Cons:
1. Higher Initial Cost
The installation cost of artificial grass is typically higher than natural turf. The price can vary based on the quality of the turf, but the upfront investment is usually more than real grass.
2. Lacks the Feel of Real Grass
While AstroTurf looks realistic, it doesn’t provide the same soft feel underfoot as natural grass. Some people prefer the genuine texture of real turf.
3. Heat Retention
Artificial grass can get quite hot in the summer, especially in direct sunlight. It can become uncomfortable to walk on with bare feet and may even require occasional cooling with water.
4. Environmental Impact
Although it requires no water or maintenance, artificial grass is made from synthetic materials, which can take a long time to degrade in landfills. Some turf products use plastics that may not be eco-friendly in the long run.
5. Possible Fading
While durable, some lower-quality artificial turf can fade over time, particularly if exposed to a lot of sunlight. You may need to replace sections of the turf every 10-15 years.
Why Choose Manning & Sons for Turf Installation?
1. Expertise in Both Real Turf and Artificial Grass Installation
At Manning & Sons, we are specialists in installing both real turf and AstroTurf. Our experienced team is trained to handle both types of installations with precision, ensuring a flawless finish no matter which option you choose. We’ll guide you through the decision-making process and help you select the best product for your specific needs and garden type.
2. High-Quality Products and Materials
Whether you opt for natural grass or artificial turf, Manning & Sons uses only the highest quality materials. For real turf, we source premium, freshly grown turf to ensure a healthy, vibrant lawn. For artificial grass, we use high-end, UV-stabilized turf that looks natural, is durable, and stands up to wear.
3. Professional Installation
Proper installation is key to the longevity and appearance of your lawn. Our team has the skills and tools to lay turf perfectly, whether it’s real or artificial. For real turf, we ensure that the soil is properly prepared and levelled. For AstroTurf, we ensure that the base layer is correctly installed and that the turf is stretched, secured, and edged for a seamless finish.
4. Low Maintenance for You
We make sure that your turf installation, whether natural or artificial, requires minimal effort from you afterward. For real turf, we provide guidance on maintenance to help you keep your lawn in tip-top shape. For AstroTurf, we offer advice on simple care to ensure it stays looking fresh with little to no effort.
5. Transparent Pricing & Custom Solutions
At Manning & Sons, we offer competitive and transparent pricing, with no hidden fees. Whether you’re looking for natural grass or synthetic turf, we provide a detailed quote before starting any work. We also tailor our services to your garden’s specific needs, ensuring the most effective solution for your space.
6. Guaranteed Satisfaction
We are committed to customer satisfaction. From initial consultation to final installation, we work hard to exceed your expectations. Our team is always available to address any concerns or questions you might have, ensuring you’re completely satisfied with your new lawn.
Conclusion
Whether you choose real turf for its natural beauty and eco-friendliness or AstroTurf for its low-maintenance, year-round appeal, Manning & Sons is the best choice for professional turf installation. We provide top-quality materials, expert installation, and exceptional customer service to make your dream garden a reality. Get in touch with us today to discuss your turf needs and discover how we can help you create the perfect lawn.
