Artificial turf vs real sod. Which is best for you? It can be a difficult choice for many homeowners but it’s an important one. Differences in brands, providers and even styles of landscaping yorba linda complicate matters more however don’t let this deter you. Having the right type of grass or artificial turf for your lawn, garden or sporting area is important and can be the key difference to unlock the full potential or your landscaping plan.
Each of these options has their own benefits and drawbacks. As a result of that and whatever your unique situation is, one will be applicable for some and not for others and visa-versa. While we obviously cannot know you and your situation precisely, we can give pointers on what you should be considering when weighing up your options.
Cost of Installation
There are many factors that can affect the cost of installing sod or artificial turf. For example, you must consider the size of the area to be covered, existing landscaping features, and drainage or even irrigation needs.
With the size, it’s pretty straight forward. Larger area will equal more money. When it comes to existing features to work around and drainage it can be a little more complicated. Some existing features such as outdoor kitchens and fire pits are easy work arounds. Others such as wiring or in ground irrigation systems can be far more difficult. With each of these it will need to be assessed on a case by case basis so it’s best to try and get and compare direct quotes from several providers rather than estimating what you should be paying before going price hunting. Regarding drainage, with sod it’s not such an issue since the natural soil and grass roots will absorb the rain water however, when thinking about artificial turf, this can become a little more difficult since most people don’t want pools of water in their backyards.
Long Term Maintenance
Another important factor to consider is the cost of long term maintenance of your sod or artificial turf. With sod, you should consider the cost (both in money and time/effort) of watering and weeding your lawn. Artificial turf, however, doesn’t have these associated costs meaning you save on your water bill and free up more time for whatever else it is you want to be doing.
If any damages do occur though, oftentimes sod can do a lot of self repair. Grass seeds are so cheap they’re virtually free if worst comes to worst and you need to do some replanting. If damage is sustained to artificial turf however, the damaged section will need to be removed and new pieces will have to be laid in their place. This is generally speaking more expensive than the sod alternative.
Your Style
The price differences between these two options are important however the most important thing to consider is what it is you want. What’s the look you’re going for? How much does the grass feel and knowledge that it’s real grass matter? Which looks best to you? Because at the end of the day, if you’re not happy with the end product then it wasn’t worth any of the money you wasted on it anyway.