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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Artificial Grass for Your Home Lawn

October 3, 2023    By:  seo

Artificial grass in Tauranga has become incredibly popular among homeowners seeking beautiful, low-maintenance lawns. With so many turf options now available, making the right choice for your residential landscape requires some consideration. This extensive guide will walk you through the key factors from blade shapes, base materials, installation do’s and don’ts, and even the cost of creating your own flawless landscaping with artificial grass oasis at home.

Elements Influencing Artificial Grass Selection

Intended Use:
If kids or pets will frequently play, opt for soft, durable grass that can handle the activity. For decorative lawns, focus more on realism and lushness.

Amount of Foot Traffic:
For pathways, or entertaining spaces meant for moderate to high traffic, robust artificial turf is needed. Go for lower density if usage is occasional.

Hours of Direct Sunlight:
The intense NZ sun degrades grass over time. Select UV-protected turf tested for heat tolerance if getting 6 hours or more of direct daily sunlight.

Location and Layout:
Measure lawn dimensions precisely. Look at any physical obstacles requiring custom cuts or seams. Check for underground services before digging.

Irrigation Needs:
While artificial turf needs no watering, options with perforations suit areas prone to high underground moisture like clay soil.

Maintenance Efforts:
Higher quality materials like thicker Polyethylene blades better retain appearance with occasional grooming compared to cheaper options.

Aesthetic Preferences:
If you prefer a more natural, believable look, focus on color variations, thatch density and blade shapes that replicate real grass.

Top Artificial Grass Material Components

Grass Fibres:
Nylon, Polypropylene, and Polyethylene (PE) are common. PE and Polypropylene offer good durability. Nylon provides excellent colorfastness but poorer heat tolerance.

Infill Materials:
Silica sand infills improve stability and drainage. Rubber granules minimize injury risks and add cushioning. Coated rubber resists compaction.

Backing Material:
Dual polyurethane and polypropylene backing ensure optimal dimensional stability and permeability. Latex coatings also perform well.

Thatch Density:
Higher densities create a lush, natural appearance. Lower densities work for occasional use.

Pile Height:
Pile height is blade length. Choose based on primary use – 25mm- 40mm suits lawns, 15mm – 16mm for play areas.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Installing Artificial Grass

1. Remove any underlying weeds, and grass completely.
2. Create a porous, compacted stone base for drainage and stability.
3. Use quality joining tape and glue to seamlessly secure seams.
4. Select experienced installers.
5. Insist on product warranty of at least 8 years
6. Ensure infill density balances cushioning, drainage, and appearance.
7. Look for ISO certificates and fire-resistance credentials.

References:
Become an installer: https://unreallawns.co.nz/become-an-installer/
Landscapers in NZ: https://unreallawns.co.nz/landscapers-in-nz/

Conclusion

Your dream of the perfect lush residential lawn minus the hassle is just an informed best artificial grass purchase and professional installation away. Keep an eye on aspects like fiber quality, base prep, project scale, and ongoing care needs. This helps pick visually pleasing, long-lasting artificial turf that excels in NZ’s sunny, dry conditions.

FAQ

1.

How Much Does Artificial Grass Installation Cost in NZ?

For residential turf grass it depends on what is required at your property contact a professional artificial turf company for a quote.

2.

Do You Need Underlay for Artificial Grass?
  1. It is highly recommended to install underlay before laying artificial grass if you need fall protection. This provides cushioning for safety when playing.
  2. Using a geotextile membrane over the soil before installing artificial grass with infill offers ideal results.

3.

What Should Be Put Under Artificial Grass?

Geotextile cloth before building the base to stop the soil and base becoming one over time.

  1. Gravel gap/20 finished with gap/7

4.

What Artificial Grass Looks the Most Realistic?
  1. Go for at least 30mm – 40mm pile height.
  2. Select softer PE or PP grass yarn with curvy blades and a thatch layer.
  3. Blades containing multiple tones and hues appear more natural.
  4. Get proper infill levels to support blades.
  5. Avoid cheaper, lightweight grass with shiny, bright green overtones.