How long does artificial grass last?

There doesn’t seem to be a definitive answer to this question and opinion can vary greatly, but there are a few factors to consider when looking at the lifespan of artificial grass. 

As with the majority of products, the better the quality, the longer it will last, and artificial grass is no exception.   Since artificial grass came into the market, the quality has improved dramatically, however, there are still varying degrees of quality out there so a little research may be needed to find the best product to suit individual needs and budget

Other factors worthy of consideration prior to purchase, are how the grass will be used and what maintenance is required.  

Unlike real grass which is a natural product so ultimately repairs itself, artificial grass doesn’t, so any damage to the turf will be permanent (although repairs can be undertaken to fake lawns, prevention is always better than cure).  Damage to lawns can occur from regular usage such as foot traffic, children playing, heat from direct sunlight or from fire pits and also from your furry friends.  The good news is that there are a few ways to help counteract some of these issues.  For example, if you have pets, it’s advisable to clean up any mess as soon as possible.   The same applies to leaves, litter and any other waste the grass may attract.  An obvious distinction between Artificial grass and the real thing is that it can be cleaned regularly with soapy water and appropriate cleaning fluids.  This can be done as often as possible and particularly essential if you have pets in order to eliminate the build-up of odour.  

Professional installation can help prolong the life of your turf as the installers will be able to assess any drainage issues and will ensure the edges of the grass are held down securely to keep the sand base appropriately compacted and contained.  They will also be able to foresee and overcome any potential pitfalls that may occur during the installation.

In conclusion, the lifespan of artificial grass can vary significantly depending on quality, usage, maintenance and fitting, but for a good quality grass and professional installation, manufacturers would usually suggest a lifespan of around 10-15 years and possibly even longer.