The Advantages of Artificial Turf

Artificial or synthetic turf was introduced in the late 1960s. Since then, many technological advances have brought artificial turf closer to natural grass. In many ways artificial turf provides advantages over natural grass for sporting facilities and for homeowners.

  1. Technological Advances

    • Artificial turf was introduced in the late 1960s and was experimented with in sporting arenas, such as in National Football League stadiums. In the late 1980s many European soccer teams, such as professional English soccer club Preston North End, had short-lived experiments with artificial turf but eventually returned to natural grass. Technology has improved artificial turf to such an extent that the majority of NFL teams now use artificial turf, and a number of soccer teams now use it as the surface of choice for training facilities.

    Maintenance Costs

    • Artificial turf can drastically reduce maintenance costs related to the upkeep of fields. By installing artificial turf, maintenance supplies such as pesticides, herbicides and fertilizer are no longer required. Costs related to water use are also reduced. Maintenance for artificial turf includes equipment for regular brushing and vacuuming of the surface.

    Availability

    • Artificial surfaces offer distinct advantages over natural grass in availability of use. Artificial surfaces require no recovery periods due to overuse that can be needed with natural grass. The weather does not become an issue in usage as artificial fields should not become waterlogged or muddy. Resurfacing of artificial surfaces is required about every 10 years compared to natural grass surfaces, such as soccer fields that require resurfacing about every year.

    Environmental Issues

    • Lower water use in maintenance helps preserve water supplies. Fewer chemicals are needed for maintenance, improving the quality of the groundwater. Artificial surfaces are also being created with recycled products. An average synthetic soccer field can be created using about 45,000 recycled car tires.

    Fewer Injuries

    • Many studies have shown that the original artificial surfaces of the 1960s raised the chances of injuries. Because of technological advances, new studies show that these injury risks are reduced and, in some cases, there is less chance of injury on artificial surfaces compared with natural grass.

    Hot, Dry Areas

    • Artificial turf is often used in arid climates where natural grass is difficult to grow and maintain. Some areas in Australia are now using artificial surfaces to create and maintain recreational areas where the upkeep was previously impossible.