37 Common Homeowner Questions About Artificial Grass and Turf  

Thinking about making the switch to artificial turf? You probably have a lot of questions — most homeowners and commercial property managers considering turf replacement do. To help, we’ll share some of the most common questions our customers have, covering everything from materials to the installation process to popular upgrades. 

Check them out below or simply contact one of our artificial turf experts here. 

37 Common Questions About Artificial Turf

We’ll answer some of the most common artificial turf questions below, listed in no particular order. 

1. What is artificial turf made of?

Artificial grass consists of three basic components: 

• Synthetic fibers (the grass blades) are made from nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene.
• Backing, which serves as a base for the synthetic fibers to be attached to. 
• Infill, which is a granular material (such as sand or crumb rubber) placed between the fibers.  

2. What is artificial turf’s face weight?

Face weight is the actual weight of the artificial turf, typically expressed in ounces per square yard, minus the backing material and infill. The higher the turf’s face weight, the softer and denser it’ll feel underfoot. 

3. Does artificial grass need any water?

Fake grass certainly doesn’t need to be watered in the same way live grass does, but you will want to hose it down from time to time to keep it clean. 

4. How much maintenance does artificial grass require?

Part of the appeal of artificial turf is its minimal maintenance requirements. You’ll need to remove leaves and other debris, rinse it with a garden hose, and brush it once every week or two, and then have it inspected by an artificial turf professional once a year. 

5. Will artificial turf fade?

Low-quality artificial turf will often begin fading very quickly when exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Premium turf, on the other hand, is usually treated with UV stabilizers, which help to prevent significant fading for a decade or more. 

6. Will fake grass attract bugs?

No, artificial turf will not attract bugs the way natural grass does. In fact, you’ll likely see fewer insects in areas with artificial turf, as it doesn’t provide the bugs with food or their preferred habitat. 

7. Can I use artificial turf around a swimming pool?

Absolutely – artificial turf works very well around swimming pools. It not only provides better traction than some other pool deck options, but you can also spray it with water to help keep it cool on sunny days. 

8. Can you install artificial grass over concrete?

Yes, you can install artificial turf over concrete — many homeowners do. However, it’s important to ensure the area has good drainage and that the concrete is prepared properly. You may also want to add an underlay below the turf for maximum comfort. 

9. Will a dog damage artificial turf?

Some dogs may chew or dig on artificial turf, which can damage it. However, with proper installation and a high-quality turf product, these kinds of issues aren’t terribly common. In terms of poop or pee, regular cleaning will usually prevent damage or odors from setting in. 

10. Does mold grow under artificial grass?

Mold can build up beneath artificial grass, but this is generally not a problem when the turf is professionally installed and proper drainage is ensured. As long as you control the moisture levels beneath the turf, mold problems will generally be minimal. 

11. Will artificial turf melt?

Artificial turf can melt if the surface temperatures rise into the 175- to 200-degree range. However, this usually only happens when the turf is exposed to a heat source (such as a grill) or sunlight reflects off of windows, creating small hot spots that may exceed the melting point of turf. 

12. Will weeds grow through artificial grass?

Weeds usually won’t grow through professionally installed fake grass. However, if the surface is not cleaned regularly, weed seeds can occasionally sprout on top of the turf. 

13. Can you install artificial grass in an oddly shaped yard?

Artificial turf installation professionals can certainly install fake grass in oddly shaped spaces. However, DIY-minded homeowners often struggle to achieve the kind of results they want when installing turf in unusually shaped spaces. 

14. What is artificial grass infill?

Infill is a granular material, such as sand, cork, or rubber, that’s spread between the fibers of artificial turf. It serves a number of purposes, including keeping the blades upright, enhancing drainage, providing cushioning, and providing a more natural, grass-like appearance. 

15. How long does it take to install artificial turf?

There are a number of factors that’ll influence the length of time it takes to install artificial turf, but professionals can usually complete small jobs in a single day. Larger jobs involving more than 1,000 square feet of space may take two or three days to complete. 

16. How long does artificial grass last?

On average, artificial turf lasts about 10 to 15 years. However, premium turf products often last for 15 to 20 years and occasionally even longer. 

17. Can I use a grill on artificial grass?

It’s generally not recommended, as the heat from a grill can melt the turf. However, you can reduce the chances of damage by using a gas grill that’s placed on a thick concrete pad positioned on top of the turf. 

18. Is there a difference between artificial turf and artificial grass?

Technically, turf (specifically AstroTurf) refers to an older product that’s essentially like a rug made of artificial grass blades, while artificial grass refers to the more modern version, complete with infill. But in practice, the terms are often used interchangeably in the modern world. 

19. How do you clean artificial grass? 

To clean artificial grass, you’ll want to start by removing any debris with a leaf blower, rake, or broom. Then, use your garden hose (not a high-pressure hose) to rinse the turf completely. Finally, you’ll want to brush the turf against the grain with a soft-bristled broom to help the fibers stand up. 

20. Is artificial grass safe for the environment?

There are some environmental concerns about the materials used to manufacture artificial turf, but many feel that the reduced need for irrigation, pesticides, and fertilizers outweigh these potential problems. 

21. What is the difference between indoor and outdoor artificial grass?

Turfs designed for outdoor use are typically treated with UV stabilizers, which indoor turfs lack. Additionally, indoor turfs (which are often used at gyms and children’s recreation areas) usually prioritize durability above all. 

22. How much does artificial grass cost?

Artificial grass materials typically cost between $2.00 and $8.00 per square foot, while installation costs generally fall in the $5.00- to $12.00-per-square-foot range, meaning that your total costs will generally range between about $7.00 and $20.00 per square foot.  

23. Can you install fake grass on top of live grass?

It is theoretically possible to install fake grass on top of live grass, but it’s not recommended. In most cases, this will lead to drainage problems, result in an uneven surface, and shorten the life expectancy of the turf. 

24. Is artificial grass pet-friendly?

Yes, high-quality artificial grass is generally pet-friendly, as it eliminates problems with mud, reduces flea and tick populations, and feels comfortable underfoot. Just be sure to have the turf installed professionally and maintain it regularly to prevent odors from building up.

25. How hot will the artificial grass get?

Artificial grass can reach temperatures in excess of 120 degrees on sunny days. However, specialized cooling infills and light-colored synthetic blades can help keep the turf more comfortable during the summer. 

26. Can you park on fake grass? 

No, you should not park on artificial grass. The fibers are not designed to support this kind of weight, and doing so will result in premature wear. It may even void your warranty. 

27. How much does artificial turf installation cost? 

Artificial turf installation usually costs about $5.00 to $12.00 per square foot, depending on the size and scope of the project, the layout of your property, and the amount of drainage and preparation work required. 

28. What is the downside of artificial turf?

The only real downside to artificial turf is the cost of having it installed on your property. However, because it will usually last for a decade or more, you’ll likely recover the installation costs in the form of reduced lawn maintenance bills. 

29. Can you vacuum artificial turf?

Vacuuming artificial grass is generally discouraged, as it can damage the fibers and remove the infill. Instead, artificial turf experts recommend sweeping it (or using a leaf blower) and then rinsing it with a garden hose. 

30. Can you put furniture on artificial turf?

Yes, you can place furniture on artificial turf, but you should exercise care when doing so. Try to select the lightest furniture possible and look for pieces that have broad, flat feet to help spread out the force. It’s also a good idea to move heavy pieces periodically to avoid causing flattened spots. 

31. Will rain harm artificial grass?

Assuming you have proper drainage, rain will not harm artificial grass at all. 

32. How long does it take artificial turf to dry?

Artificial grass will generally dry in one to four hours following a light rain, but it may take 24 hours to dry following torrential downpours. High humidity levels and poor drainage may also extend the drying time in some cases. 

33. Can I just install artificial turf on dirt?

It’s generally not a good idea to install artificial turf directly on dirt, as this can lead to drainage problems and provide an uneven walking surface. Instead, you’ll want to excavate the area and lay down a 2- to 3-inch-thick layer of gravel or crushed stone to provide adequate drainage and stability. 

34. Can artificial grass increase my property value?

Yes, artificial grass can increase your property value, as it not only looks vibrant and green all year long, but it also requires less maintenance — something that many potential buyers will find appealing. However, to maximize the increase in property value, it’s important to select a premium product and have it installed professionally. 

35. Can artificial grass be installed on slopes or uneven terrain?

Yes, you can install artificial grass on slopes or uneven terrain, though additional site-prep work may be required to ensure a smooth walking surface and proper drainage. 

36. Can I install artificial grass myself, or do I need a professional?

Homeowners and property managers can certainly try to install artificial grass, but they’re rarely happy with the results. Artificial turf installation requires more skill and experience than non-professionals have, which tends to create problems during the process and ultimately forces them to secure professional assistance to address the issues.  

37. Can I install artificial grass around trees or other landscaping features?

Yes, you can install grass around objects on your property. However, you want to use caution when installing fake grass around trees, as it can restrict airflow and moisture to the root zone. 

Trust Pup Pavers & Turf for Your Artificial Grass Needs!

We hope that this FAQ has helped answer some of the questions you have about artificial turf, but don’t hesitate to reach out to our team if you have any lingering questions. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have or set up a free on-site evaluation to help you determine if artificial turf would be a good choice for your property. 

We’ve been providing artificial turf solutions for homeowners and property managers in Wellington, Tequesta, Gulf Stream, and the rest of the Greater Palm Beach area since 2006, and we’d love to help you, too. Contact us today to start enjoying beautiful, low-maintenance artificial grass on your property.