Artificial turf has come a long way from the scratchy green carpets of the past. Modern turf looks remarkably realistic.
Installation costs range from $8-$16 per sq ft, including base preparation. A typical 500 sq ft yard costs $4,000-$8,000.
The biggest pro: zero mowing, watering, or fertilizing. You'll save $200-$500/year on lawn maintenance.
Modern turf lasts 15-25 years with minimal maintenance — just occasional rinsing and brushing.
The cons: high upfront cost, heat retention on hot days (can be 20-50 degrees warmer than natural grass), and environmental concerns about plastic waste.
Best use cases: pet areas, side yards, play areas, and drought-prone regions where natural grass struggles.
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