If you want to install a lawn for your newly-built house, there are two options available: a natural turf lawn or an artificial turf lawn. Your choice of turf for the lawn will depend on the specific requirements of your project, so it is important to have that figured out first before embarking on the project. If you are torn between natural lawns and artificial lawns, here is an overview of some upsides and potential drawbacks of both types of lawns. Hopefully, this will help you choose the right turf for your lawn.
Natural Lawn
Natural turf is the traditional choice of turf for lawns. Many people love this kind of turf because of its vibrant and lush look. Like many other plants, natural turf helps balance the ecology by taking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen into the air; hence, it is a great choice for the environment. Natural turf installation requires seeding, aeration, watering, fertilising, thatching and dethatching. When the turf is all grown, it will need regular watering and mowing to continue looking healthy.
Even though it takes a lot of time, money and effort to keep natural turf healthy and looking great all year long, the results can be really satisfying. Any organic waste, such as fallen leaves and pet droppings, present in the lawn will disintegrate into the soil and turn into manure, thus increasing soil fertility and making the turf healthier.
Artificial Lawn
Artificial turf is an ideal choice of lawn turf for people who would like to avoid the onerous task of caring for a natural lawn. As these type of turf are made of synthetic material, they do not require seeding, aeration, watering, fertilising, thatching and dethatching, mowing or any of the other installation and maintenance activities associated with natural lawns. While they require low maintenance, artificial lawns can never match the exquisite look of natural turf – all they can do is to try to imitate them in the best possible way.
Unlike with a natural lawn, organic waste will not be able to disintegrate into the ground because of the synthetic turf backing. This can encourage the growth of fungi, algae, moss, mould and any other forms of bacterial elements, which are often hard to clean out. As a result, your artificial lawn can start to look dingy and wear out much faster.
Before choosing to install a natural lawn or an artificial one, it is best to consult with your home designer or landscaper first. These professionals can help you select something that is just right for you.