One of the biggest considerations when choosing astro turf or natural grass for outdoor areas is long-term expense. While astro turf, or artificial turf, is famous for its cheap maintenance and constant look, real grass has its own merits. This article compares astro turf versus natural grass costs, revealing short-term and long-term savings.
Initial Investment
- Astro Turf: Astroturf installation may be rather expensive up front. It covers costs for supplies, labor, preparing the ground, and the grass itself. Advanced features on high-quality artificial grass might be fairly pricey at first.
- Natural Grass: A preliminary investment is also necessary to establish a natural grass lawn. This includes the cost of installing irrigation systems, grass seeds or sod, and sometimes even hiring a landscaper.
Maintenance Costs
- Astro Turf: The low maintenance needs of artificial grass are one of its key selling advantages. It may save time and money since it does not need fertilizing, watering, or mowing. However, it can be required to clean and brush the grass on periodically to keep it looking good.
- Natural Grass: For natural grass, routine care includes mowing, watering, fertilizing, and insect control. While this helps to create a lawn that is lush and alive, it also results in recurring expenses for equipment, water bills, and lawn care supplies.
Longevity and Durability
- Astro Turf: Astro turf that has been properly placed and maintained may survive for ten years or more. It is designed to survive high foot traffic, a range of weather, and UV exposure without suffering serious damage.
- Natural Grass: While natural grass lawns may also last for a long period, they are more prone to damage, particularly in regions with heavy traffic. Extreme weather, bugs, and diseases may significantly shorten the life of natural grass, requiring reseeding or resodding on occasion.
Water and Utility Costs
- Astro Turf: Astroturf reduces the need for ongoing irrigation, which may result in significant water savings over time. Additionally, it doesn’t call for the use of pesticides or fertilizers, making it more environmentally friendly.
- Natural Grass: Water expenses may be greatly increased by watering a natural grass lawn, particularly in locations where water is scarce. Regular use of pesticides and fertilizers raises possible environmental issues in addition to increasing costs.
Replacement and Repairs
- Astro Turf: Although artificial grass has a very long lifetime, ultimately it will need to be replaced because of wear and tear. Repairs could also be required if some areas sustain damage.
- Natural Grass: Natural grass may sometimes need repairs owing to problems like illness, uneven growth, or animal digging. To maintain a healthy lawn, reseeding or resodding may also be essential.
Conclusion
The price point becomes a key point of consideration in the continuing argument between artificial turf and real grass. In the end, the choice will be made based on personal preferences, financial constraints, and the particular requirements of the outside area. If you choose astro turf or natural grass, consider the long-term costs to create a landscape that satisfies your tastes and fits your budget.
