The choice to convert from natural grass to artificial turf can be a major decision. There are several reasons to switch to artificial grass, including:
- Minimal maintenance
- Fewer allergens
- No watering or irrigation
- Cost effective
- Raises resale value of the home
- Increases curb appeal
Once you make the decision, however, it can take time to get the process started. Although artificial grass is cost effective in the long run, it can be a major home improvement investment initially. An investment of this type must be well thought out and planned for to ensure, it is truly a step you want to take. Changing your mind halfway through the process can be extremely expensive and take months to correct.
Complying with State Drought Legislation
In states like California where drought conditions are common, it is against the law to water lawns on a regular basis, if at all. The drought conditions throughout the state are thought to be so severe that environmental experts believe that even more restrictions need to be put in place to protect the states' already endangered water supply.
In 2014, legislation was passed that gave law enforcement officers the authority to issue tickets to homeowners who were caught using excessive amount of water to wash their cars, fill swimming pools or water their lawns. Homeowners can be charged up to $500 per day for each ticket they are given for excessive water usage. Learn more about the penalities for not adhering to water conservation ordinances.
Keeping Up with Property Values
Having a well kept lawn is important if you expect to keep your property values high. Your property value and curb appeal are two of the most important factors that are considered when you choose to list your home on the real estate market. Both are used by the real estate broker to come up with an adequate listing price for your home. As long as the property is well maintained, the property values will remain high and consistent with other homes in the area.
Many neighborhood organizations require a specific level of home maintenance of each property in the area. Homeowners who do not comply can eventually be charged with hefty fines for letting their property fall into disrepair. If one property begins to look unkept with high weeds and unmowed grass, it can begin to lose its property value. When the value of one house decreases others in the neighborhood begin to gradually follow suit. If nothing is done, the entire neighborhood will begin to suffer.
Cost Comparison
The cost of converting a natural lawn to artificial grass can be extremely expensive. In the long run, however, it is one of the best, cost effective options available. If you consider that the initial cost of the lawn is divided up by the number of years the artificial grass remains in place, the numbers become more reasonable.
In addition to its durability, artificial grass requires very little if any care, to keep it looking lush and vibrant. The total cost of lawn maintenance over the years also helps to make artificial grass more efficient. A few of the costs you will no longer have to worry about with artificial turf are:
- No maintenance cost for lawn mowers or trimmers
- No grass seed to buy for reseeding
- No spending money on harsh chemical fertilizers or weedkillers
- No wasted time
Over the years, a high quality artificial grass can reduce the amount of money you spend on lawn maintenance by thousands of dollars. When comparing which type of lawn is most efficient, it is important to look at the big picture, including the impact each type has on the environment.
