Where artificial turf makes sense
Artificial turf gives a green, usable surface with no mowing, fertilizing or watering. On commercial properties it works best where people need a lawn-like surface but real grass struggles or costs too much to keep up:
- Dog runs and pet areas at apartment communities
- Small amenity lawns next to clubhouses and pool decks
- Narrow strips and medians that are hard to irrigate without overspray
- Shaded spots under building overhangs where grass thins out
- Putting greens and game areas at amenity spaces
It is a poor fit for large open lawns in full afternoon sun, where the surface gets hot, and for areas that need trees, which artificial turf does nothing to support.
Quality matters
Not all artificial turf is the same. Shared areas get heavy use, so the product and the base under it decide how long it looks right.
Polyethylene
The most common choice for landscape turf. It looks natural, feels soft and holds up to regular use. It does not hold odors, which makes it the right material for pet areas.
Nylon
The most durable and most expensive material. It handles heat and wear best, so it is used mostly for putting greens and sports surfaces, often blended with polyethylene.
Polypropylene
The least expensive option and the least durable. It does not handle Reno summer heat well and shows wear quickly, so we do not recommend it for commercial landscapes.
Pile height
- Short, under about 30 mm: best for putting greens and heavy-use dog runs.
- Medium, about 30 to 50 mm: the most natural look for amenity lawns, with 44 mm a common choice.
- Long, over about 51 mm: blades lay flat over time and look less natural, so we rarely use it.
Heat, drainage and the base
Artificial turf gets hot in direct sun. Place it where it gets some afternoon shade, or pair it with shade trees in nearby beds and shade structures. Infill choices also affect surface temperature.
The base does most of the work. A compacted, well-graded base with proper drainage keeps the surface flat and lets rain and pet urine drain through. When turf replaces an irrigated lawn, the old sprinkler zone is capped or converted to drip for the surrounding beds.
Care and maintenance
Artificial turf is low maintenance, not no maintenance. On a commercial property it should be part of the regular maintenance scope:
- Blow off leaves and debris on regular service visits
- Brush the fibers upright so traffic areas do not mat down
- Rinse pet areas often and use an enzyme cleaner if odor builds up
- Apply pre-emergent around edges in spring and fall to keep weeds from blowing in
- Clean spills quickly. Gum and sap come off more easily when frozen
- Patch burned or damaged sections with a fitted piece instead of living with the damage
Thinking about replacing turf? Read our guide to turf conversions, see our enhancements service, or request a free quote.