Many homeowners prefer artificial grass as an alternative to real grass for its low maintenance. It does not require watering and mowing throughout the year and will always look green and well-kept. However low maintenance does not mean any maintenance. You still need to keep an eye on it to make sure that it lasts longer, looks great and proves to be a good investment. So, let’s take a look at how to maintain your artificial grass.
After installation
Newly laid artificial grass will need some time to settle as it has a sand underlay that slowly structures the turf. After it has settled, we recommend that you brush your lawn a few times a month, depending on how much usage it gets. Areas, where there is high foot traffic, may require brushing more regularly to prevent grass blades from flattening.
Use a stiff bristled brush and make sure that you brush your lawn in different directions to achieve a natural look. Avoid using metal bristled brushes as they can damage and rip your artificial grass.
Although brushing your lawn might seem like light work, it will make a noticeable difference in the appearance of your lawn as grass blades will be upright and look their best throughout the year.
Remove debris and leaves
Artificial lawns have a membrane that allows water to filter through but it’s also there to minimise the risk of unwanted plants and weeds growing through the grass. However, some unwanted weeds and mosses can still grow through the turf so you should keep an eye out and know how to tackle them. You can apply weed killer if any weeds or mosses appear on your lawn. We recommend water-based solutions to avoid damage to your lawn.
You should remove any leaves and dead plants as soon as possible because they can cause a build-up of organic matter on your lawn which could then damage your lawn’s drainage and encourage weed growth. You can remove the debris with a brush, by hand or using a leaf blower.
Remove stains and pet messes
Artificial lawns are made from resistant material so most stains and spills can be easily removed. Drink spills can be mopped up and allowed to drain through. Any sticky residues can be easily wiped away with warm soapy water (washing up liquid will do the job).
Food mess should be removed as soon as possible so that it won’t leave a long-lasting stubborn stain. You can rinse the area with water and mild household detergent. For a stronger stain, you can use a 3% ammonia solution in water.
Any stubborn stains such as oils or ink can be removed using a cloth and some mineral spirits. This is recommended only if the stain does not respond to mild household detergents or an ammonia mixture.
It is very easy to clean pet messes from artificial grass. Clean your artificial lawn of dog urine by simply hosing down the area at your earliest convenience. Your pet is likely to use the same area for toileting, so it is recommended that you wash it down regularly with soapy water to keep it fresh and avoid odour. Avoid removing pet messes with metal forks or spades as this can damage your lawn, use a plastic scooper or a bag. A stained area can be cleaned with half-and-half vinegar and water mix or water and mild detergent to remove any bacteria and eliminate stains.
Heavy items
Heavy items such as outdoor swimming pools, trampolines, flowerpots and other outdoor furniture can flatten the artificial grass fibres and leave an imprint. When the heavy item is removed, simply brush up the fibres to their former shape. However, when heavy items are placed on your lawn over a long time, the imprint might still be visible even after the grass has been brushed up.
Avoid using sources of heat directly on the lawn
Sources of heat such as barbeques and bonfires should be kept away from getting into direct contact with your lawn as this will cause the melting of the grass which cannot be recovered. Barbecues must be placed on a stone or gravel surface away from the lawn to prevent any sparks from coming into contact with it. In some cases, the damage can be repaired but it will still be visible.
Be aware of mirrors and other reflective surfaces
Please be aware that mirrors, mirrored walls and shiny surfaces can reflect the sunlight and focus it on the lawn. In the hotter months, this can end up causing serious irreparable damage melting the lawn. However, this hugely depends on where your lawn is in comparison with the reflective surfaces.
Artificial grass, like any other investment, needs care and maintenance to sustain optimal longevity and performance. Following this simple guide for cleaning and removing stains, ensuring that there’s no debris and brushing your artificial grass, especially the high traffic areas, will ensure that you will be able to enjoy your lawn for years to come.
