Its Time to Fake it

People are always very particular about their lawns and for good reason. A back yard is a perfect opportunity to try out new ideas, implement new landscape designs, maybe even start gardening as a hobby. So it is only natural for people to be picky about every single aspect from the design to the type of grass used.

There are literally dozens of innovative ways to design a lush green lawn but artificial grass has moved into the domestic spotlight over the last decade. It was and still is one of the most widely used grasses in sports and has also gained prominence in the residential sector and is now a common addition to many homes.

These benefits are not unfamiliar to people. Low maintenance, low cost, no mowing or cutting, natural green look; these are some of the hallmark features of fake grass. However in today's post we will look beyond that and highlight some of the other reasons why it would be a good idea to invest in artificial grass instead of the natural alternative.

Rooftop Gardens

If your home sports a rooftop garden, then artificial grass would be a great option to consider. In fact in many cases it might be your only option. Rooftop gardens cannot support the weight of a natural lawn and soil. Artificial grass is lighter, easier to install and on top of that, it enhances the look of rooftop gardens.

Barren Areas

While not uncommon, there are some areas where growing grass naturally can prove to be next to impossible. This could be due to a number of reasons ranging from extreme weather and drought conditions to very quality of the soil itself. Such situations are another one of those dead ends, where artificial grass would be the only logical way forward.

Pet Friendly

Fake grass is pet friendly because it is made with environmentally friendly fibers and is easy to clean. Pets can make a lawn messy in no time. Cleaning it can be a daunting task should on natural grass surface. With artificial grass, it is a walk in the park.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

This may not rank in the top ten list for most people when it comes to lawn and landscape design but people who are cautious about being green tend to use artificial grass for their front lawn and back yard. It is made of environment friendly components and its eco-friendly. More and more people opting for this approach in order to make the environment cleaner, safer and healthier.

High Quality

Arguably, the number one reason why fake lawns are so popular is because of its high quality and realistic appearance. In some cases, you can't tell one from the other. For homeowners, this means they get the lush green natural grass look as well as the eco-friendly benefits of the artificial grass, which makes it a no brainer.

If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned scenarios then it's time to use fake grass. It is a great investment no doubt and for some people, it's not a matter of choice but rather of logic and reason. The point to take from this post is that no matter what the situation, artificial grass can transform your lawn into a lush green landscape. For more details on this topic, contact Artificial Lawns or browse the complete range online.

Ten reasons why artificial grass is the way of the future

Gardens across the nation are making the switch... from real to fake. Now this is no case for alarm. It now seems that people are deciding to lay the foundation, the foundation to a better lawn.

Artificial grass lawns are becoming the new norm, among both garden enthusiasts and the average Joe. The recent surge in synthetic styled gardens allowed people with more hectic lives to still attain the immaculate garden they always wished for, without the hassle of having to meticulously tending to it.

Now I know this might all sound a little too good to be true, but rest assured that making the move from the endless slog of real grass to the simply sublime styling's an artificial lawn will be the best thing you've ever done! Here are the ten reasons why we at RC Artificial Grass think that artificial are really the way forward.

1)      Low maintenance - With an artificial lawn you're free to spend your lazy Sunday's just being that....lazy! An artificial lawn requires minimal attention compared to its real counterpart. No longer will you be under the thumb of the three big M's - Mowing, Mud and Moisture (okay watering but you get it).

2)      Longevity - A common misconception about artificial grass is that after a little wear and tear you'll be pretty much stuck in the mud. But allow us to be lay your mind (as well as your lawn) to rest.  All of RC Artificial Grass lawns are made to the highest quality without compromising on realism. Most companies guarantee their lawns for 5 years here at RC Artificial Grass we guarantee ours for 20 years for added that piece of mind. For a more information about all our lawns and services click here.

3)      Safety - At RC Artificial Grass safety is always at the top of our list in everything we do. Your lawn should be no different. All our lawns are cultivated to the highest standards possible, ready to meet all needs. Our informative and clear lawn guides will help you find the perfect patch for you. Unlike old synthetic grass ours infused with soft polyurethane fibers which are non-abrasive, so you won't have to worry about any cuts or scrapes. With lawns suitable for children, dogs and everything else in between we have you covered!

4)      Free flowing - You'd be excused for thinking that an artificial lawn would be prone to flooding, but that's where you're wrong! Ours won't flood like the titanic, as ours have holes in backing allowing for the water to flow free. Just like water should.

5)      Environmental - For all you eco - warriors out there you needn't worry about harming mother earth. Because unlike real grass, artificial grass doesn't need to be watered (water bill saving whey!) You'll also be happy to know that chemical fertilizers and weed killers will be but a distant memory as artificial grass doesn't need them. Which brings us to the "pièce de résistance" (the best bit), the dramatic reduction in your carbon footprint. This due to the fact you'll never have to use a lawnmower again! Result.

6)      DIY - With our comprehensive step by step guide laying artificial grass has never been easier. We make it simple to achieve the garden you deserve. To see just how it easy it is click here to view our video installation guide.

7)      Commercially viable - If you thought artificial lawns were just a novel look for your home then you are mistaken. Artificial grass is both a unique and professional way of sprucing up that lackluster display for a range of corporate events. It's portable and multi-faceted nature means that it can go places that real grass just can't.

8)      Aesthetically sound - We want your gardens to look great all year round, that's why we made our lawns to be exactly that. All our lawns are UV stable, all that means is that they'll never fade even in the harsh conditions.

9)      Economical - As fore mentioned synthetic grass is a great way of saving you time, but another great quality is that you stand to save a shed load of money too! No more having to shell out on that top of the range lawnmower or all manner of lawn concoctions. Artificial grass does away with all of that, leaving more money in your pocket and less in the hands of the DIY giants. (Ahem B&Q!)

10)   Simply perfect - At RC Artificial Grass we make sure that you get the perfect lawn. Delivering a service second to none, from start to finish. Don't have time to do it yourself don't worry about! We'll do it all for you at a time and price that is simply perfect. For more information about our installation service please click here.

So there you have it, ten great reasons why artificial grass is the way forward. So there should nothing holding you back get in contact with us today and make an artificial lawn your reality! 

How To Look After Your Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is low maintenance; not no maintenance. Whilst it does not require watering or mowing like traditional lawns, there is some upkeep required to make sure it stays in good condition. Just like with any home (or in this case garden) furnishing, you need to care for your artificial lawn on a regular basis so that it lasts longer and proves to be a good investment. A little goes a long way and carrying out just a little light maintenance work once a month can save you a huge job at the end of the year. So let's take a look at how to care for your artificial lawn in a way that keeps it green and lush for longer.

Brush It Off

When artificial lawns are newly laid they have a sand infill that slowly structures the turf. In order to ensure the turf is in optimum condition when it settles, it is important to tend to the lawn regularly over the first 6-8 weeks. All you need to do is lightly brush the grass on a regular basis, but not too forcefully as it could misshape the turf.

After this initial period (6-8 weeks) and for the rest of the lawn's life, you will only ever need to brush the lawn to give it a spruce up. Brushing it just once a month is ideal but make sure you brush it in all different directions so you keep the turf pile bouncy and upright - think fluffy not comb over.

Of course, you will need the best brush for the job and we suggest a medium soft bristle brush which will be gentle but effective on the artificial grass. Although brushing with a soft-bristled brush might seem like light work, it will make a noticeable difference to the appearance and condition of your lawn.

De-Debris Your Lawn

Artificial grass lawns have a membrane backing that, though ideal for letting water run through, minimize the risk of unwanted plants and weeds that grow through normal grass patches. That said, the tenacity of certain weeds and mosses means the odd one may come through anyway so it is best to be prepared and know how to tackle weeds and moss should they appear. Unlike when you weed natural grass, you can't go digging through your artificial grass with a trowel or fork. Instead you have two choices; the first is to focus purely on the cosmetic, taking off the tops of weeds when they show through the grass, without really addressing the root of the problem. Alternatively you could use a moss or weed killer BUT make sure it is a water based solution, so as not to damage the grass. Once the moss and weeds are dead you can simply remove them by hand or brush them off.

Any organic debris like leaves and dead plants should be removed from your artificial lawn as quickly as possible. This is because a build-up of organic matter can damage the lawn's drainage and encourage weed growth. You can collect the debris by hand, with a brush or even using a leaf blower - just make sure you keep on top of it.

Stubborn Stain Removal

The resistant material of an artificial grass lawn means you ought to be able to remove most satins and marks quickly, using hot soapy water (washing up liquid is fine for the job. Tougher oil marks and such can be removed using a cloth and some mineral spirits. If you have to clean up animal mess then make sure it is removed as soon as possible, followed by a wash of the area if needed.

Bonus Tips

·         Try not to use sharp objects on your grass

·         Make sure you keep your chewing gum and adhesives well away from your synthetic lawn

·         Keep motor vehicles off the artificial grass, except for wheelbarrows, bicycles and wheelchairs which are fine on it

·         Don't keep/use sources of heat on the artificial grass (or too near to it). Smoking, bonfires and fireworks are all no-goes and barbecues are best done of safe, solid surfaces like gravel or slabs

·         Watch out for the damage children and pets can do to artificial lawns. Dogs will normally be put off digging in the presence of artificial grass but on the odd occasion they do dig, they run the risk of ripping the underlay. Similarly, if children purposely pick off blades of synthetic grass your lawn will look bald because the grass won't grow back. An artificial lawn is ideal for kids and pets but make sure you pay attention to how they treat it

These are just a few, simple steps to maintaining an artificial lawn so it stays in top condition, for longer. If you have any other queries on how to care for yours or if you would like to discuss the benefits of artificial grass in more detail then get in touch with RC Artificial Grass today - we're always happy to help with any questions or queries you may have!

Forecast: Blue Skies and Green Grass, All Summer Long

Summer is here and that means there are a few unbearably hot days ahead for us. It also means that many of us will end up with a crispy brown topping on our beloved lawns. As much as we associate lush green lawns with lazy summer days, grass doesn't actually fare too well when we get into long periods of double figure temperatures. Summer is edging closer and days get hotter so water usage bans will no doubt come into effect soon, followed swiftly by sorry-looking brown lawns and dustbowl gardens. There is a way you and your garden can fend off the scars of summer though. If you want to keep your garden looking green and tidy, even in the height of the summer heat, then artificial grass can help. Here are a few of the ways an artificial lawn could help you out this summer:

Handle the Water Usage Ban Like a Pro

So, when they eventually impose a water usage ban how will you manage? Easily. Artificial grass is low maintenance and because it doesn't need to be watered, there is no need for constant watering which is great because you can't miss what you don't use. Not only do synthetic lawns eliminate the need to water, they don't turn drown and crispy when we have an extended dry spell which means even if there's a little bit of a drought, you can still enjoy a lush green lawn.

Sunny Days Are No Sweat

As nice as it is to find an excuse for spending hours on end in the sun, the novelty wears off when doing so means you have to slave away mowing the lawn. Luckily for you, artificial grass doesn't actually grow so it doesn't need mowing or trimming. That means you can save time and effort, spending you afternoons enjoying your sunny garden instead of sweating it out and getting it ready for everybody else to enjoy!

Bake Away

An artificial lawn's health and appearance isn't dependent on the weather as natural grass is. So even when the sun is baking and baring down on it all day long, you won't end up with sorry-looking yellow patches or a dried up dustbowl beneath the dead and damaged grass.

Perfect for Al Fresco Parties

One of the best things about summer is how social people can be; long days spent exploring the outdoors together or quiet evenings on the patio with ice cold drinks and fabulous company. Having lots of social gatherings on dry and brittle summer grass can leave you with a worn, patchy lawn if you have natural grass. However, with artificial grass you can have the kids playing in the garden all day, every day and adults partying in it all night long without any serious wear on the lawn itself.

Hassle-free Holidays

Going on holiday often requires some sort of prep to ensure the house is locked up tight, someone is picking up your mail and your pets are taken care of whilst you're away. On top of these preparations, many of you will have to arrange for someone to water and mow your lawn when you're away; this extra hassle isn't necessary though. With artificial grass you can jet off without worrying about the garden. Whether you're going on a last minute weekend break or a three week stint around Europe, you won't come home to a crispy brown lawn or an out of control jungle.

These are just a few of the ways in which artificial grass can help make your summer easier and keep your grass greener - whatever the weather. So if you want a lawn that can stand up to the pressures of showers and heat waves without so much as a flinch, call RC Artificial Grass today and we will be happy to help you find the ideal artificial lawn!     

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.