Artificial grass has helped residential property owners give a complete makeover to their outdoor spaces. There are numerous benefits of artificial grass. The best thing about turf is that there is no need to mow, water, or fertilize it.
However, the truth is that there is no such thing as eternal turf. The yard that looked flawless once can look matted, patchy, or bleached. This signals towards replacing the turf.
Typical synthetic turf will last anywhere between 8 to 15 years, depending on how often it was used, maintained and the turf’s quality. The problem? Many homeowners hold off until the last possible moment.
They may still stick to the worn-out turf that can drag down the aesthetic look and appeal of their property. Even worse is the fact that ruined grass can also pose dangers, particularly for children and animals.
Thus, how often should turf be replaced? Let us help you understand when to make the right call to avoid your yard becoming a discolored, flattened disaster.
How Long Does Turf Last?
Artificial turf isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. To understand how often turf should be replaced, one needs to first understand how long it lasts. Its durability depends on the quality of the material, usage of the specific installation techniques, and how much it is used every day. Though some homeowners have over 15 years of great results from their turf, others notice the wear signs a lot earlier. Since quality speaks volumes, here is what to expect in terms of quality:
1. High-Quality Turf (12–20 Years)
Premium synthetic turf, made with UV-resistant nylon fiber, performs the best. It can last for up to 20 years if installed properly, including a drainage system and consistent maintenance. Perfect for low to moderate-traffic residential yards, commercial spaces, and sports fields.
2. Mid-Range Turf (8–12 Years)
If your turf is built of a combination of polypropylene as well as polyethylene, your grass generally lasts 8-10 years. However, in high-traffic areas (such as for use in play areas or pet zones) it can reflect signs of wear within less time. Further, sun, heated climate, and an absence of infill refilling can all reduce its durability.
3. Low-Quality Turf (5–7 Years)
Low-quality artificial turf is generally manufactured from cheap, low-grade fibers and will degrade in just a few years. In places like LA, fading, flattening, and tearing can result in as little as a few years. When you opt for cheap quality artificial grass, be prepared to change it sooner than you even earlier thought of.
Factors That Can Shorten Turf’s Lifespan
Several factors can help you determine how often turf should be replaced. Even the highest-quality artificial turf can wear out prematurely due to:
- Intense Foot Traffic: Frequent use by pets, kids, events, or sports activities can break down the fibers.
- Sun Damage: Prolonged exposure to LA’s scorching sun can weaken and fade turf that isn’t UV-stabilized.
- Poor Drainage: Water pooling speeds up deterioration by damaging the backing and causing mold growth.
- Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting to brush, rinse, or add infill can lead to compaction and early breakdown.
If your turf was installed over a decade ago, it’s time for a close inspection. A matted, faded, or uneven lawn is a clear sign that replacement should be on your radar.
Signs Your Artificial Turf Needs Replacement
Are you unsure whether your turf has passed its prime or if it’s fresh out of luck? Here’s what to watch for:
1. The Color Has Faded
Los Angeles’ sunshine is no joke. Over the years, UV rays degrade the fibers, which leads to your green and plush turf becoming faded, yellow, or even brittle. However, if your lawn resembles a worn-out carpet, then replacement may be the only solution.
2. Flattened or Matted Blades
High-traffic areas such as walkways, play areas, and pet relief places are mostly affected. The fibers may have lost their structural integrity if brushing or fluffing is unable to restore fibers. Also, this artificial grass will not only appear bad, but even the surface will lose its soft, cushioned feel.
3. Poor Drainage & Water Pooling
Artificial turf should drain water efficiently. If you see puddles, wet areas, or bad smells, the backing has likely decayed. Not only does this create a perfect breeding ground for mold growth, but it also creates a slippery surface that no homeowner wishes for.
4. Rips, Tears, or Loose Seams
Tears in the turf may originate small but worsen as time passes, particularly over high-traffic areas. When the backing begins to fall apart, repairs are pointless.
5. Infill Loss & Uneven Surface
Artificial turf relies on infill for its structure and stability. If the surface is hard, uneven, or packed, it can happen that the infill has washed out, and the turf is uncomfortable to walk or play on.
Can You Extend the Life of Your Turf?
Absolutely. It’s not invincible, but regular upkeep may keep artificial lawns looking fresh and last longer. That said, if you want to try to extend the life of your turf, consider the below-given tips:
1. Brush Your Turf Regularly
Over a period of time, blades get flattened because of foot traffic and weather. This can result in your lawn looking worn out. Using a stiff-bristled broom or a power brush once a month can fluff up the fibers and keep them standing tall.
2. Rinse Away Dust, Dirt, and Pet Waste
Los Angeles is known for dry, dusty conditions. Combine that with pet use, and your turf can quickly start to smell or look dirty. A simple hose-down once in a while will avoid build-up and keep your grass looking new.
3. Refill Infill to Maintain Structure & Cushioning
Artificial turf utilizes “infill” (sand or granules of rubber) to help the blades on the surface stay upright and provide cushioning feel under foot. With time, infill gets pushed out of the way. This especially is the case in heavy traffic zones. Adding a layer every 6–12 months prevents your turf from becoming compacted or uneven.
4. Address Small Damages Early
Little tears, loose stitches, or places where the backing is visible can turn into bigger issues quickly if left untreated. Fixing little patches will save you from a full patch or costly full replacements.
5. Keep Heavy Objects Off Your Turf
If left too long, turf fibers will get crushed beneath heavy objects like outdoor furniture, grills, or play equipment, and that kind of damage is permanent. Shift objects from time to time when it’s feasible, or leave them on hard surfaces like pavers.
6. Protect Your Turf from Heat Damage
Los Angeles heat can be brutal on synthetic grass. Never put hot items such as fire pits, grills, or reflective surfaces such as windows up against your turf, as these can harm your turf or lead to discoloration.
Why Investing in New Turf Pays Off
The question of how often turf should be replaced isn’t just about appearance; it’s about safety, property value, and long-term savings. Modern artificial grass is more durable, realistic, and eco-friendly than ever before. The benefits include:
- Lower Maintenance Costs
- Improved Curb Appeal
- Better Safety for Kids & Pets
Conclusion
In short, if you’re still thinking whether to replace your artificial grass or not, keep in mind that worn-out turf costs much more down the line (in upkeep, aesthetics, and potential safety risk). If your turf has seen better days, don’t wait until it turns into a patchy, faded mess. A professional service provider of artificial turf installation in Los Angeles can replace your old lawn with a fresh, high-quality surface built to last. Give yourself the lawn of your dreams today by installing it!
