Artificial turf has a bum wrap. Invented in the 1960s, the synthetic grass was one of the most talked-about innovations of its time. Within a decade, however, the talk turned sour. After being installed in baseball fields and arenas, athletes and managers agreed, artificial turf was not a good substitute for the real thing. So, scientists and manufacturers went back to their drawing boards, and even now, are constantly improving upon the original design. Today, artificial turf is widely used not only in stadiums but arenas, indoor golf areas and even restaurants (really?) and is also making an appearance in residential yards.

 

Traditionally used in these venues, the people who frequent these sports-minded areas are largely responsible for the change in artificial turf design. Due to injuries and lost games players, managers and facility operators agreed that the turf needed some vast improvements or it would be, well, turfed.

 

Today, the fake grass-like flooring is used widely and is a fantastic way to make sports arenas true multipurpose facilities. The turf is much more portable now due to Velcro seams, and can be installed without a professional crew. Facility operators can go from ice rink to soccer field in just hours, maximizing use and revenues.

 

Indoor putting greens and golf arenas are almost as good as the real thing now that they don't have to be maintained as cautiously if using the artificial green. Made of nylon and polypropylene, this maintenance free option is not so laughable anymore.

 

When artificial turf was first introduced as a grass-substitute, the hopes of the manufacturers were that it would replace lawns all around North America and be a water-saving, virtually maintenance free green oasis. No more trimming and mowing for good old dad, those mai-tai's on the veranda would be a reality. Unfortunately the stigma and the flaws of artificial turf overshadowed its good qualities and people quickly forgot about their dream of a maintenance-free future.

 

But now, more and more home and land owners are rediscovering the newly-designed turf and praising it's form and function, as well as the money saving end of things as well. Commercial site owners are having the turf installed and seeing returns on the initial cost of the artificial turf. The time and money that can be saved can add up or a year or two.

 

Home-owners are using the realistic-looking turf for their own lawns, private putting greens and dog yards. The money and time saved are very important factors for people's busy lifestyles, as is the eternal-gren colour that lawn-fanatics love. The turf is soft enough to run and play on and realistic enough that Spot won't notice the difference. It's also easily cleanable and allows for complete drainage through the backing as well.

 

While artificial turf can't necessarily be called eco-friendly (it's ingredients are debated constantly) it may be so in the not-so-distant future.

 

So, break out the rum and get the mai-tai's flowing - a maintenance free lawn awaits. Artificial turf is not only a realistic alternative but a fully functional ground covering and wonderful option for homeowners and facility managers alike artificial turf .