Artificial Grass To The Rescue

If you’re a gardening or fake lawn fan then you will like hearing when artificial grass makes its mark on the world, especially when that mark makes a real difference. You probably already know that fake lawns look great and make life easy but when they are used as tools for helping people and solving problems they are something to be proud of. Read on to see what we mean.

California is in the midst of its worst drought on record. California’s desperately dry period comes at the same time as much of America is suffering from a Polar Vortex. Despite the arctic conditions in America’s East Coast and Mid-West, California’s temperatures are uncomfortably high and the forecast seems to be permanently set to sunny.

California’s current drought is being labeled as the region’s driest period since rainfall records began which is making life increasingly difficult for the state’s 38 million residents as well as its giant economy driven by primarily by agriculture. Homes, businesses, nature reserves and farmland are all suffering from the dry drought conditions and the restrictions imposed in the wake of them. In January 2014 California’s Governor Jerry Brown declared a state of drought emergency following 2013’s record low rainfall recorded in San Francisco (5.59 inches) and Los Angeles (3.6 inches). On top of this low rainfall, the snow water from snow packs like those in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is just 12 per cent of what it normally is in winter – a significant concern considering the snowpack provides a third of the state’s water supply. The snowpack is not the only tell-tale sign of how serious California’s current drought is though.

The San Gabriel Reservoir in the Angeles National Forest has a “bath tub ring” around its basin which shows how dramatically its water levels have dropped whilst the great Folsom Lake is so dried up that it looks more like a puddle surrounded by a sandy beach. The lake’s waters have receded so drastically that dried up fish scatter the lake bed which is becoming a visitor attraction itself, the submerged towns that once stood where the lake now resides being visible and accessible (pictures here). Meadows normally covered in snow are bone dry and appear to be in the midst of summer whilst the Sierra Nevada range has faced more challenges than a disappearing snowpack. The range’s forests are dried and primed for major forest fires like the devastating rim fire that destroyed hundreds of acres in Yosemite National Park in 2013 along with the Colby fire which ripped through homes in Southern California.

These conditions and the drought that caused them are nothing new according to scientists who have been studying the region and its long-term climate. California has suffered from such patterns before and megadroughts are considered part and parcel of the state’s semi-arid climate. Some of the droughts evidenced by geological markers occurred long before records began, the most severe of them lasting for 180-240 years. Scientists like Scott Stine (professor of geography and environmental studies at California State University) are concerned that California reacts to droughts as a short term (5-7 year) issue but the emergencies are historically more frequent and much longer lasting.

In the wake of these scientific revelation and all of the current drought-related problems, restrictions have been put in place with some counties in the state having been banned from watering their lawns and all Californians being asked to reduce water consumption by 20 per cent.

It is here that artificial lawns come in. With so many uses for water and not enough water to go around, the people of California need to find alternatives for everyday things. Long, leisurely showers are a thing of the past, swimming pools are not the home essential they once were so it makes sense that where possible, installing, and using alternatives that don’t require water at all is the best way to help California in the drought crisis. Artificial grass is one such alternative. It allows people to stay proud of their homes without wasting water which can keep spirits high in trialing times. At the moment there is a boost in sales of fake lawns in California, following the driest year in state history (2013) and The Daily Mail explained that this is because “fake grass has emerged as a way of achieving a constantly green front yard while saving water”. So, as people are being asked to adjust their entire lifestyles, stopping “long solo showers” and following requests not to flush the toilet more than needed, it is nice to know that problems which normally waste water (like lush green lawns) have practical and sustainable solutions. Whilst there may be a million ways to help the Californians in their difficult drought, artificial grass can do its bit by giving people the freedom to focus on the bigger issues at hand and take other measures that could make a real difference.

3 Common Synthetic Grass Myths Debunked

Like anything, there are bound to be those select few who pick and try to find faults with a product however, it is important to remember that as a current or potential owner of a synthetic grass lawn that you are in the hands of the experts. In this article, we will be taking a look at some of the most common myths surrounding the synthetic turf industry and how they can be debunked.

‘It's unsafe for my children and pets'

This is simply untrue due to the fact that many artificial lawns nowadays are made from near enough the same materials as a modern day carpet. Many manufacturers make the decision between poly or nylon yarn fibers which are then tufted into a primary backing system. This backing system is often made of polyethylene and is then secured using a secondary backing system, usually made from an alternate poly such as olefin or urethane.

The truth of the matter is that the industry has become very sophisticated since the release of the first artificial turf and abides by strict requirements in order to provide homeowners and businesses alike with an adequate amount of safety and comfort.

‘Synthetic Turf Gets Extremely Hot'

While fake lawns can grow a little warmer than the average grass due to a lack of moisture, it never becomes unbearably hot. In fact, some fibers are even designed to reflect sunlight in order to keep the blades cooler while others will remain at an ambient temperature due to the fact that the blades do not retain heat.

In addition, athletic fields that are exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time might even reach a higher temperature than artificial turf that has been installed in a natural environment. Finally, there are currently no known cases of people who have experienced minor or first, second or third degree burns from coming into contact with synthetic turf.

‘Synthetic turf is killing the environment'

Actually, in terms of how eco-friendly natural grass is, artificial turf is better and safer for the environment. As some turfs are made from recycled materials, artificial grass helps the environment by eliminating the need to throw these resources onto the landfill. Furthermore, it also eradicates the need for any pesticides, fertilizers and herbicides.

Since artificial grass does not need to be watered or mowed, it eliminates the need for fuel emissions from mowers or excess use of water. Overall, synthetic turf proves to be an incredibly eco-friendly alternative to natural grass.

If you'd like to enquire about artificial turf installation or if you have any questions regarding the topics mentioned in this article, please do not hesitate to get in touch with RC Artificial Grass today. 

Artificial Grass Purchasing Checklist

Artificial grass has countless advantages as compared to real grass which seems like a bad deal when compared with artificial grass. It stays green throughout the year, requires little to no maintenance, no mowing and doesn't need any kind of fertilization either. These are just some of the many reasons why artificial grass has gained such so much popularity in such a short amount of time.

When purchasing artificial grass, you need to know exactly what you are looking for in order to refine your search and get the right kind of grass. We have created a checklist of some of the things that you should look for when purchasing artificial grass.

Know What Type of Grass You Want  

There are some types of artificial grass that are completely made from recycled materials such as tires and rubber soles of shoes. If you are an environmental activist and are worried about your carbon foot print then this piece of information would be important for you. Again, it's important to know the different between natural and artificial. The only reason people opt for artificial grass is because they want to avoid natural grass altogether.

Check the Stitching

This is very important because if you get it wrong you could end up with a lawn that would be more of a nuisance than a scenic view. . Fake grass is actually sewn into a mat like surface that is usually made of rubber or latex. Make sure that you check how many stitches the manufacturer has placed in a ten centimeter area to hold the grass firmly to the padding. The more the stitches are, the better the quality and the stronger the artificial grass will be.

The Question Of Long or Short Blades

Blades are another important factor and which ones you get depends entirely on your usage. If you are simply purchasing the artificial grass for your lawn or backyard then the length of the grass blade does not really matter as you know that you have to get the one that has short blades. If you will be using it for sports purposes, then you need to know the precise length required of the artificial grass.

Factor in Maintenance

One of the primary benefits of artificial grass is low maintenance. However, there are further level of low maintenance when it comes to fake grass. There are some kinds that require a special kind of cleaning on an annual or half yearly basis, ideal for those who are really limited on time. However before you make the purchase do inquire about the cost of this cleaning and whether it is feasible for you or not. Low maintenance may not always mean low cost. Find that out beforehand.

Always opt for high quality brands as they are likely to provide you with the best products at the best prices possible. Take your due time in inspecting the grass before making a final decision so that you do not regret it later on. 

Artificial Grass Purchase List

Artificial grass has countless advantages as compared to real grass which seems like a bad deal when compared with artificial grass. It stays green throughout the year, requires little to no maintenance, no mowing and doesn't need any kind of fertilization either. These are just some of the many reasons why artificial grass has gained such so much popularity in such a short amount of time.

When purchasing artificial grass, you need to know exactly what you are looking for in order to refine your search and get the right kind of grass. We have created a checklist of some of the things that you should look for when purchasing artificial grass.

Know What Type of Grass You Want  

There are some types of artificial grass that are completely made from recycled materials such as tires and rubber soles of shoes. If you are an environmental activist and are worried about your carbon foot print then this piece of information would be important for you. Again, it's important to know the different between natural and artificial. The only reason people opt for artificial grass is because they want to avoid natural grass altogether.

Check the Stitching

This is very important because if you get it wrong you could end up with a lawn that would be more of a nuisance than a scenic view. Fake grass is actually sewn into a mat like surface that is usually made of rubber or latex. Make sure that you check how many stitches the manufacturer has placed in a ten centimeter area to hold the grass firmly to the padding. The more the stitches are, the better the quality and the stronger the artificial grass will be.

The Question Of Long or Short Blades

Blades are another important factor and which ones you get depends entirely on your usage. If you are simply purchasing the artificial grass for your lawn or backyard then the length of the grass blade does not really matter as you know that you have to get the one that has short blades. If you will be using it for sports purposes, then you need to know the precise length required of the artificial grass.

Factor in Maintenance

One of the primary benefits of artificial grass is low maintenance. However, there are further level of low maintenance when it comes to fake grass. There are some kinds that require a special kind of cleaning on an annual or half yearly basis, ideal for those who are really limited on time. However before you make the purchase do inquire about the cost of this cleaning and whether it is feasible for you or not. Low maintenance may not always mean low cost. Find that out beforehand.

Always opt for high quality brands as they are likely to provide you with the best products at the best prices possible. Take your due time in inspecting the grass before making a final decision so that you do not regret it later on. 

Synthetic Lawns vs. Natural Grass

When it comes to the choice between synthetic grass lawns and natural grass, both come with reasonable positives and inevitable negatives and it can be difficult to make a decision for homeowners.

For starters, natural grass of course removes carbon dioxide from the air and produces oxygen through a natural process known as photosynthesis which can provide healthy, fresh air surrounding the home or property. Furthermore, natural grass can bring a great sense of organic nature to the garden, something that many homeowners very much enjoy.

So, why don't a growing number of people stick with natural grass? Well, one of the reasons is that natural grass can prove to be fairly hard to maintain to a satisfactory standard. Although when preserved natural grass can provide a fantastic view, getting to this stage can be difficult especially if you live somewhere that is prone to frequent rain showers or excessive heat which can flood or dry out your garden massively. Another reason is that natural grass is more likely to attract insects, which may damage your garden and ruin its appearance.

Synthetic grass lawns do not have this problem nor do they carry the burden of harmful chemicals such as fertilizers or pesticides. As they eliminate the problem of insects and dry muddy patches they look beautiful all year round and are fully season-proof. Not only this, they can also save the time, money and energy spent trying to preserve a natural grass lawn. As natural grass lawns require watering on a regular basis, you will be saving a lot on your water bills, as artificial grasses require only a little water to wash away the dirt collected on the lawn.

In addition artificial lawns can be ideal as they require no mowing or trimming to keep in pristine condition meaning that you can dedicate your free time to growing plants or flowers to spruce up the appearance of your garden.

Many people are discouraged by fake lawns as they do not know how to lay artificial grass however, experts come at a price suitable for most homeowners and installation is both easy and time-efficient when placed in the hands of a specialist.

If you're interested in investing in a synthetic grass lawn or you wish to consult a specialist as to which is the best option for your location, please do not hesitate to get in touch with RC Artificial Grass today to find out more. 

Artificial Grass Ideal For All Types of Gardens

We are all well aware of how tedious and time consuming it is to maintain a lush green garden throughout the year, especially during the winter; even the slightest bit of negligence or poor care can singlehandedly affect the entire visual appeal of your front or back garden. This is where artificial lawns come into play. Over the years, they have become the de facto choice among home owners and have become a cost effective alternative to natural grass.

Gardens can benefit immeasurably from artificial grass provided that the layout is carefully planned out and professionally installed. The first and foremost benefit of installing artificial grass is that it requires practically no maintenance and upkeep. A recent survey cites this as the number one reason why people opt for fake grass. This benefit of artificial grass altogether eliminates the need for mowing and trimming. There is no need to toil in the hot sun or in shivering weather on your weekend. Artificial grass comes in different styles, sizes and materials that is fully capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions.

With so many benefits to offer, people automatically assume there has to be a catch and many are quick to assume that artificial lawns must be very expensive. This is not the case; artificial grass prices very reasonable and though there is an initial installation charge, if done professionally, the lawn effectively pays for itself through reduced water bills and other maintenance costs.

Not only is it cost-effective, it also eliminates the need of buying pesticides and other chemicals. Artificial grass makes for an excellent pest deterrent. Since bees and bugs have no place to populate, they practically stay off the lawn thereby keeping it lush green and looking beautiful.

Natural grass is typically green. Artificial grass is more versatile and come in different shades of green to match the visual requirements of homeowners. It comes in various sizes, types and colors allowing homeowners to fully customize their landscape as they see fit. If done correctly, they even add value to the overall property.

Gardens maybe the exterior part of a house but they are nonetheless an important element of a home. By installing artificial grass, homeowners can give their garden a completely new look all year long without breaking a sweat. It is a must have for your garden and undoubtedly one of the best investments you will ever make in your home.

 

Contact RC Artificial Grass for more information!

Why Artificial Grass is Great For Parks

A smart sight to see

A lot can be said for the smart appearance fake grass for lawns gives to a holiday park regardless of its location or weather conditions. Nothing's more welcoming than the appearance of a freshly cut lawn to visitors which can be achieved with artificial grass, as opposed to muddy or unsightly dry patches common amongst natural grass lawns. Available in several luscious shades of green, a fake lawn presents itself as a colorful addition to any holiday home to help holiday makers get in the mood for having a fantastic getaway.

Perfect for sports

There are several reasons why sports centers and football pitches across the world tend to prefer artificial sports surfaces provided by fake grass for playing sports on. One of which includes its convenience, providing an ideal solution to heavy footfall and minimizing the risk of wear and tear from being excessively used. This characteristic is essential for areas like children's play areas or patches near pools which are likely to be used by lots of people, and with fake grass you can ensure these recreational zones are kept both clean and green throughout the year.

Easy to maintain

Providing a soft and easy to care for solution to unappealing grass surfaces, artificial grass is ideal for surrounding swimming pools and outside areas thanks to their low maintenance. All gardeners or caretakers need to do is some occasional watering to ensure it stays a long-lasting pristine glossy shade of green, remembering to check the seams occasionally to ensure it is properly attached. This significantly helps companies to save money in the long run, which can then be spent elsewhere on providing more facilities for visitors and ensuring they have a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

Great for families

As a result of the above characteristics artificial grass is an ideal investment for any holiday park which regularly attracts families. For areas where children are the target market, such as outside play areas for crazy golf, hosting family friendly activities has never been easier by using fake grass as it provides a soft surface ideal for recreational activities. Whether it's running around or simply relaxing by the pool, make sure their holiday is one to remember by providing them with a lush grassy landscape that's as good as the real thing. 

How To Prepare Your Garden For A Golf Course

If you have the advantage of having a fair sized back garden then you may be wondering what you can use the space for. There are probably a thousand possibilities running through your head right now but I bet none of them are for yourself; whether it's a children's play area for your kids or a pristine yard for your wife, none of these suggestions focus on what you want. It's always great to treat ourselves and why not start by transforming your back garden into a miniature golf course?

Of course, it will only be a few holes but if you adore the game and wish to turn your hobby into something more akin to a lifestyle, but just don't have the time to travel to a specialist club, then turning your garden into a golf course is a fantastic way to do so.

So, in order to treat yourself and seize the opportunity that your back garden offers let's take a look at how to turn your garden into a golf course:

Consider time and space

While it might sound easy, the golf course process can be incredibly complex and when not handled correctly can lead to disastrous results that could destroy your entire garden. The best starting point to use is to consider just how much space you have that is usable i.e. flat ground and work from there. It goes without saying that in order for this process to be effective you must have a fairly large garden.

Purchase the Equipment

Although your golf course hasn't been constructed yet it is advised to purchase all the equipment you need beforehand so you can budget how much you can afford to put towards transforming your back garden into a miniature golf course. Required equipment will include:

-          Pitching wedge

-         Putter

-          Multiple Balls

-          Multiple Tees

As a side note, you may want to consider investing in an artificial lawn to eliminate any maintenance needs that may come with seeding a real lawn. Not only this, artificial grass drains water much quicker allowing for play on dry terrain even after a night of solid rain and is incredibly durable making it ideal for golfing. The cost of artificial grass may vary depending on the type of green you need; to check what type of grass you will require, click here.

Excavate the area where your golf green will be placed to a total depth of 51cm (this equates to around 20 inches). In order to avoid the hassle of weeds during your construction process, be sure to remove all of the existing turf. Now it is time to prepare the ground for coverage and plot your holes.

If you're unsure on how to install artificial grass, it is advised to contact a professional to help you in your process to avoid any mishaps or common mistakes that will impact on the final appearance and quality of your back garden golf course.

Once these stages have been done, it is time to get your clubs out and enjoy a lovely round of golf on your brand new golf course!