In a time when water is so precious many are doing their best and implementing many water-savers into their homes and gardens. One such water-saver is synthetic lawn.
Synthetic lawn is made from a mixture of synthetic materials which vary from supplier to supplier. The raw materials used are crucial to the quality of synthetic lawn. Blades are always made from nylon, polyethylene (PE), or polypropylene (PP) – a common form of plastic found in plastic bags and bottles. It comes in solid pellets which are melted down and mixed with dyes and UV resistant additives. If you’re looking for quality, PE is generally your high-end option.
The backing is often made from polypropylene fibres, rubber compounds or polyester foam. A flexible adhesive such as polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or latex is used to coat the underside and bind the grass fibres into the backing.
Installation can actually make or break your experience. The method to install synthetic lawn varies depending on the surface onto which you are installing it and DIY can be risky. There are many factors to consider such as which region you are in and what weather conditions your artificial lawn will be exposed to. For example, you cannot use nails in extremely cold regions whilst extreme heat and reflections from windows can melt the lawn. Professionals also have knowledge of roll orientation and the direction of the lawn blades as well as excavation depth, preparation of the base, etc. It is advisable to get a local installer in to conduct a site visit and give advice on which method would best suit your individual circumstances. You could try DIY but you’d be saving yourself time and money getting it done by a professional.
Once the grass has been correctly installed you’ll need to give it some TLC in terms of cleaning and maintenance; but don’t worry, it’s not nearly as time consuming as traditional lawn. Basic maintenance would include the following:
• Brush the lawn with a stiff bristle broom (not steel) regularly to remove debris and encourage the blades to stay upright. Brush in accordance with the amount of traffic your lawn gets – you’ll soon see if the grass is looking dull or flat.
• Rake or use a leaf blower to remove fallen leaves, branches, etc.
• Hose down your lawn every month (more if heavy traffic) to get rid of dust, dirt, and pollen. If something is spilt on your lawn it is best to rinse it straight away. Recommended detergent use varies so check with your supplier.
• Remove solid pet waste as per normal – with a scoop or bag – and remove urine by hosing down the area. If odour starts to build up you can use a mixture of white vinegar and water mixed in equal parts.
• Even artificial lawn can get weeds if not looked after. Weed removal is easy enough -pick them out or spray a weed killer in advance to avoid them altogether.
The good news is that with good care, synthetic lawn can last up to 20 years. This figure obviously depends on which brand you use, but most come with a warranty of 8 to 15 years. Modern synthetic grass is chemically treated to be UV resistant and has been improved to be more wear-resistant. So whether you want to switch over to a lower maintenance back yard or simply create a little manicured spot in your courtyard, synthetic lawn is a great long term investment that may even add a little value to your property. After all everyone loves a lush green, manicured lawn!
Norgarb Properties Agent Andre Ter Moshuizen who specialises in the Claremont area, shares some household tips and handy home hints with you every month. Read more of his articles here.
Andre Ter Moshuizen: 082 602 1367 | andre@norgarb.co.za | www.norgarbproperties.co.za
