The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Synthetic Turf in Pittsburgh

You’ve asked, and we’re here to answer! If you’ve been looking at synthetic turf, we have answers to some of the top questions we get. Read on to see if your questions are here.

What Exactly is Artificial Grass?

Artificial turf is made from synthetic materials like nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene. The turf comprises of a backing material and fibers made to look like grass. Synthetic turf today is available in a wide variety of colors and lengths to fit any need.

How Long has Fake Turf Been Around?

Artificial grass gained its fame thanks to sports in the 1960s, but it swiftly became used for lawns across the nation soon after. You can check out the history of artificial grass landscaping in this article.

Is it Safe for Kids & Pets?

Yes, artificial turf is non-toxic and created from materials that are pet-friendly and safe for kids. Additionally, if you choose to install synthetic grass on your property, you’ll also create a better play environment for your loved ones because you won’t need fertilizer, pesticides, or other harsh chemicals anymore.

What Are Some Turf Terms I Should Know?

We get this query a lot! So here are some of the most common artificial grass terminologies you’ll find while shopping.

Backing

The backing weight is what holds everything together. It’s fundamentally the underside of synthetic turf.

Yarn/Fiber

The yarn is the “face” of the turf. This is what changes depending on what colors and length you need.

Fiber Weight

Fiber weight refers to how much yarn is used per square yard of turf. The higher the face weight, the longer and denser the synthetic turf’s grass will be.

Infill

The infill is what maintains the artificial turf blades upright, shields the backing from damage caused by UV rays, and gives a more realistic feel.

Pile Height

The pile height refers to the length of the grass blades. Pile height is what makes your artificial lawn looks real.

How Can it Be Used?

There are many options to pick from when it comes to artificial grass. Because it can be installed almost anywhere, you gain a competitive edge you wouldn’t get with natural grass. Here are some of the most famous types of grass we have:

• Residential: Ideal for your front or backyard, Shawgrass residential turf is created to look the finest and last for many years to come.
• Commercial: Can help reduce how much you pay on annual maintenance costs and enables you to focus on your actual business priorities and not landscaping.
• Playground: Our playground turf is designed for high-use play areas, offers the best durability and return on investment, and is IPEMA Certified and ADA accessible.
• Pet Turf: We make artificial grass specifically for your four-legged friends. This grass is crafted for better drainage to allow urine to flow through quickly.
• Active Lifestyle: Shawgrass provides a complete line of putting turf, batting cage turf, and recreational turf, all designed to look and function just like the real thing.
• Performance Turf: With Shawgrass performance turf, you can change your gym or indoor sporting venue into a top-notch facility.

 

Can it Be Installed on Hard Surfaces?

Yes, you can install synthetic turf over concrete, paving slabs, and asphalt. We do recommend adding additional cushioning under the turf to make it softer. Any large cracks or dips should be filled and leveled before adding the turf.

Can it Be Put Over Natural Grass?

No, we do not advise placing artificial turf over existing grass. This is because you can run into drainage issues, leveling issues, and it’s possible for some of the grass or weeds underneath to grow up through your artificial turf.

Could I Install it Myself?

While installing artificial turf can be a DIY project, we don’t advise it. To get a nice even-looking surface, you’ll want to rely on the pros. You can check out 8 reasons we DON’T recommend you install it yourself in this article.

What Should I Ask My Installer?

Your artificial turf installer should be a wealth of knowledge. There are two categories of questions to ask an artificial grass installer — before installation and after. Check out this article we did covering some of these questions.

How Do You Clean Artificial Grass?

Cleaning artificial grass is hassle-free! It won’t require nearly as much maintenance that natural turf does. To keep your artificial grass looking good, you should check out our guide to keeping it clean.

Can Synthetic Turf Melt?

Artificial grass won’t melt because of the sun, but a hot ember from an open fire pit can melt your turf. That’s why we suggest adding a patio area using stones or gravel large enough to accommodate seating and installing a fire break for the fire pit.

How Long Will It Last?

With advances in technology, top-of-the-line artificial grass will last well over 10 years. There are many elements that affect how long the turf will last (if it’s in the sun or shade, how much foot traffic it gets, etc.), so we advise talking to our team to learn more about our warranties.

How Much Does It Cost?

The price of your final artificial turf project will vary depending on these factors:

• Square footage
• Site access & prep
• Type of turf
• Special features

Don’t See Your Questions?

We’d love to hear from you! Contact us today with any other queries you might have about our synthetic grass.