Standing Water
In areas where large amounts of rain are the norm, standing water can become a problem if the lawn has numerous dips and valleys. Standing water can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects that are known to be pests during the hot, humid summer months. In a natural grass lawn, standing water can damage the tender shoots of new grass and drown the root system causing patches of grass to die. Eliminating areas of standing water and leveling the ground are often factors when homeowners are choosing between artificial turf vs. grass.
Standing water is the result of complete saturation of the soil. Even as the water evaporates, the ground can be damaged because it takes the moisture in the soil much longer to dry out. When the soil is extremely wet, it is much easier to track mud into the home. Avoiding extremely wet areas will help prevent mud and dirt from being brought into the house or onto the patio. The best way to do this is by installing artificial turf.
Mud
Even small amounts of rain can result in muddy areas in your lawn. Mud consistency can range from extremely runny to very thick and clumpy. Either way, you don't want to constantly worry about tracking mud, dirt and other lawn debris into your home. Homeowners have several options to help control the issue.
Pavers can be used to make pathways throughout the lawn or artificial turf can be installed in areas close to the house or in sections of the lawn where there is an excessive amount of foot traffic. With artificial turf vs. grass, there is no dirt that can be turned into mud whenever it rains. That means more fun and less mud with synthetic grass. There are no grass clippings or any other types of lawn debris that can be carried into the home.
Tracks and Trails
Paths and worn areas can be created in natural grass when there is an excessive amount of foot traffic or wheeled carts/vehicles frequently taken across the lawn. The more traffic the lawn receives after a heavy rain, the more torn up the lawn will be. As the grass begins to wear away, mud and dirt will begin to show through. As it becomes more visible, the dirt can begin to break up and be carried away in the treads of shoes and boots.
Artificial turf resists the wear and tear of foot and tire traffic. Because there is no dirt to soak up water and stick to the bottom of shoes, walking through artificial grass does not lead to tracking soil inside the home or garage. As a homeowner, it is your choice as to what type of ground cover you want to have in your yard. The choice of artificial turf vs. grass will be made by comparing several factors. Many homeowners like the fact there is minimal maintenance and upkeep, while others like the fact there is very little lawn waste and there is no topsoil to dirty up the yard and sidewalk.
The soil free nature of artificial grass makes it a popular choice for homeowners who frequently entertain large groups of guests in their homes. With synthetic grass, guests can go anywhere on the property without the fear of tracking dirt and debris into their hosts' home. Having synthetic turf installed in your lawn keeps the property looking lush and green, without creating extra work or making a mess.