Artificial turf is a man-made surface that has become increasingly popular with sports facilities and other outdoor areas where natural grass is impractical. It’s made from rubber, plastic, or polyethylene fibers woven together on top of a base material. Artificial turf can be installed on various surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, or wooden decks. It’s often used in sports fields because it is durable and easy to maintain. However, there are disadvantages to using artificial turf.
Advantages of Artificial Turf Field
Artificial Turf Fields are Cost Effective
Artificial turf fields are more affordable than natural grass and are easier to maintain. The initial cost of installing the field is higher than natural grass, but this investment will pay off over time because artificial turf fields require less maintenance and repairs.
You can also compute synthetic grass costs by estimating your money on maintenance and repairs and how much time is spent caring for the field.
Artificial Turf Reduces Maintenance and Upkeep Costs
The cost of maintaining artificial turf fields is considerably lower than natural grass fields. The artificial turf fibers need not be watered or fertilized, saving money on water, electricity, and chemicals. The maintenance costs are also lower because the field does not require mowing or trimming like a natural grass field.
Artificial Turf Fields Last Longer than Grass
Artificial turf fields can last up to 10 years or more, depending on the turf type. The artificial grass fibers are durable and will not deteriorate over time like natural grass. The infill used in artificial turf is also designed to provide cushioning for protection from impacts and falls.
Artificial Turf is Safer than Grass in Many Ways
Artificial turf is safe for children and adults because it contains no chemicals or harmful substances that can be absorbed through skin contact. Synthetic fields are also less likely to cause an injury than natural grass fields, which can be more slippery during wet weather conditions.
Artificial Turf is More Durable
The durability of the artificial turf is a key factor in reducing maintenance costs. Since it does not require mowing or watering, there is less wear and tear on the field during use. This means artificial turf fields can last for 20+ years without significant deterioration.
Heavily Used Athletic Fields Stay in Play Year Round
Artificial turf is ideal for athletic fields heavily used, such as high school football stadiums. These fields often must be shut down during winter due to freezing temperatures and snowfall. With an artificial turf field, these facilities can remain open year-round so athletes and their fans can enjoy year-round sports activities.
Disadvantages of Artificial Turf Field
Artificial turf fields have disadvantages you should consider before installing them. These include: –
- Higher maintenance costs over natural grass
- Some players and fans may not like the feel of artificial turf fields (though this is often a matter of preference)
- Artificial turf requires more time to clean up after games, practices, and events than natural grass does
- Artificial turf fields are more likely than natural grass fields to cause injuries if players fall on them.
- Artificial turf does not offer the same cushioning as natural grass does
- Some artificial turf fields can experience problems with infill settling over time, creating uneven playing surfaces.
- Artificial turf fields are more likely than natural grass fields to cause injuries if players fall on them.
- Some synthetic turf products contain rubber infill particles that can harm human health when inhaled.
Wrapping Up
There are many benefits to playing on artificial turf, including reduced maintenance costs and the ability to use your field year-round. However, there are also some drawbacks. If you’re considering installing artificial turf, research to make an informed decision about what’s best for your school or organization.
