The last option that I have for people who are wanting to minimize their lawn area is to consider artificial turf. While this is typically a last resort, artificial turf does have a place in certain landscapes. There are many new products available now that include imitation thatch to give a much more realistic appearance. Artificial turf only needs irrigation to cool it down in the summer time or clean off any residue pet/animal west. It is great if you have a limited space/sunshine but really need an attractive, mess-free, pet relief or kid's play area. The major drawbacks for artificial turf are it is very expensive, has a limited lifespan, and there are hefty disposal fees when you need to replace it (artificial turf isn't recyclable). Some additional concerns that are important to keep in mind are viewing directions, melting/heat, odor, and maintenance. Artificial turf is typically designed to look the most natural when viewed from a maximum of two directions. You'll need to make sure it is installed and designed properly to capitalize on these views. I have also seen artificial turf melt when it is hit with the reflection from south facing windows and it has a similar heat profile to asphalt when in the sun. There are non-renewable products such as zeolite, a form of volcanic pumice, added to the fill of artificial turf to help with odor control from pet waste and you must treat the surface as well since artificial turf lacks the microbes of native soil for breaking down waste. Finally, in order to keep your artificial turf looking its best, you should consider an annual power brooming and sand fill to keep all of the fibers standing up appropriately.
Now that we've talked about how to prioritize the right amount of lawn area for your yard and talked about your options to replace turf, your dreams can become a reality! Contact me today to help determine which option is the best fit for you!
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