Artificial grass can be installed in various settings, including residential lawns, commercial landscapes, playgrounds, sports fields, and rooftop gardens. It’s flexible and adaptable to different surface types and shapes. Artificial grass is typically more durable than natural grass. It doesn’t need watering, mowing, fertilizing or pest control.
NFL Players Choose Artificial Grass Over Natural Grass Fields NFL teams like Seattle SEAHAWKS, Detroit LIONS, Chicago BEARS, Dallas COWBOYS, Saint Louis RAMS & more (Forbes, 2023)
Numbers of Football clubs using Artificial grass Queens Park Rangers, Luton Town, Livingston, Oldham Athletic, Spartak Moskva (BBC Scotland, 2013)
Number of football club moving to artificial plus neutral grass mixed (Desso Grassmaster)
Arsenal: has put Wembley in the shade, Manchester City: inaugurated a brand-new stadium, Sheffield Wednesday: on track with new state-of-the-art pitch, Leicester installed in their new training facilities, Liverpool Artificial fibers installed in their new training facilities, Manchester United: inaugurated a brand-new stadium
- Low Maintenance:
Artificial grass requires minimal upkeep, as it doesn’t need watering, mowing, or fertilizing.
- Durability:
It can withstand heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions, making it perfect for high-usage areas.
- Water Conservation:
Artificial grass helps reduce water consumption, which is especially important in areas with water restrictions.
- Consistent Appearance:
It maintains a lush, green appearance all year round, without the need for regular maintenance.
- Pest and Weed Free:
Artificial grass is resistant to pests and weeds, reducing the need for pesticides and herbicides.
- Versatility:
It can be used in a variety of applications, from residential lawns to commercial landscaping, sports fields, and even indoor spaces.
- Cost-Effective:
While the initial installation cost may be higher, artificial grass can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and water costs.
- Environmental Benefits:
Artificial grass can be made from recycled materials and can help reduce carbon emissions from lawn care equipment.
Initial Costs:
Artificial grass costs between $4 and $20 per square foot, while natural grass costs between $0.40 and $1.00 per square foot
Artificial grass requires more labor and materials for installation, increasing upfront costs
Natural grass requires soil preparation, seeding, and sod installation, which can be more cost-effective
Maintenance Costs:
Artificial grass requires minimal maintenance, with costs limited to cleaning and brushing
Natural grass requires regular watering, mowing, fertilization, and pest control, leading to higher maintenance costs
Long-term Costs:
Artificial grass can last 15-25 years, with replacement costs factored into long-term expenses
Natural grass may require reseeding, renovation, or rehabilitation, adding to long-term costs
Initial Capital Cost
Natural Grass Artificial Grass
£ 300,000 £ 410,000
Annual Maintenance Cost (Based on Field Size of 80,000 Square Feet)
| Maintenance | Natural Grass | Artificial Grass |
| Mowing Equipment | £ 5530 | |
| Labor Cost | £ 4740 | £ 2,765 |
| Clipping Removal | £ 2260 | |
| Fertilization | £ 3835 | |
| Overseeding | £ 365 | |
| Coring | £ 2210 | |
| Topdressing | £ 7500 | |
| Thatch Removal | £ 146 | |
| Monitor Irrigation | £ 670 | |
| Water Cost | £ 4265 | |
| Equipment Depreciation & Fuel | £ 2760 | £ 1185 |
| Total | £ 34,281 | £ 3,950 |
LONG TERM COST DIFFERENCE
| YEARS | Natural Grass | Artificial Grass | Difference |
| 10 Years | £ 642,810 | £ 449,500 | £ 193,310 |
| 15 Years | £ 814,215 | £ 469,250 | £ 344,965 |
| 25 Years | £ 1,157,025 | £ 508,750 | £ 648,275 |
Positive Attributes
| 350% reduction in cost per hour of use |
| 240% more playing time |
| 60% reduction in neural injuries |
| 50% reduction in cranial/cervical injuries |
| 30% reduction in third degree injuries |
Research by Pay Weekly Flooring
References:
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45903364
https://www.grassmastersolutions.com/en
https://www.woodlandschools.org/storage/file/3193/Turf%20vs.%20Natural%20Grass-Cost%20Analysis.pdf