Artificial Turf
Also known as: synthetic grass, fake grass, astroturf
Artificial turf is synthetic grass made from plastic fibers on a backing, installed over a compacted aggregate base with infill. It delivers a green, low-maintenance lawn that needs no mowing, watering or fertilizing.
In simple terms
Artificial turf is realistic synthetic grass. Once it is installed over the right base, it stays green year-round with no mowing or watering — you just rinse it occasionally and brush the fibers up.
In depth
A quality turf system is layered: a compacted aggregate base (often Class 2 base or decomposed granite) for drainage and stability, a weed barrier, the turf itself secured at the edges, and infill brushed into the fibers. Turf is specified by fiber type, pile height, face weight (density) and color blend; pet and play turfs add drainage and antimicrobial features. Proper base prep and drainage are what separate a turf install that stays flat and drains from one that wrinkles and puddles.
Why it matters
In a region of water restrictions and hot, dry summers, artificial turf eliminates lawn irrigation and maintenance entirely while keeping a green look year-round — a major long-term water and labor saving.
Common mistakes
- Skimping on base prep and compaction, leading to wrinkles, settling and poor drainage.
- Using too little or the wrong infill, so fibers mat down and the turf wears unevenly.
Examples & uses
- Residential lawns in water-wise landscapes.
- Pet areas and dog runs (with drainage turf).
- Putting greens and play areas.