Artificial Grass-Cost Effective Way to a Beautiful Lawn

Posted on March 25, 2011 by Fred

A Cost Effective Way to Have a Beautiful Lawn

Tecolote Pinto Field with Artificial Turf by Smart Scapes

If you think that artificial grass is that rug-like-looking horrible green stuff used in 1970’s era football stadiums (Astro Turf), think again!  As reported in our previous blog, there have been major strides made in the world of artificial grass and now artificial grass is being installed in residential, commercial, and recreational areas all over the country.

The biggest obvious benefit of artificial lawn is the price. When it comes to artificial grass, cost is a one-time expense. Once an artificial lawn is installed, there are no additional expenses in order to maintain its appearance. With an artificial lawn, it is maintenance free. You do not need to cut it, water it, or fertilize it. You save unlimited amounts of water. In addition, untold amounts of money is saved since the normal costs of maintaining the “natural appearance” of living grass is no longer a requirement.  Just imagine no more expensive lawn equipment, chemicals, and maintenance help!

Your artificial lawn will not scorch in the summer or freeze during the winter. While  owners of living grass lawns are replacing and repairing theirs yards each spring, artificial lawn owners have the luxury of deciding what to do with their maintenance-free time. If you didn’t have to deal with your grass yard, you could spend more time actually enjoying it! Instead of cutting the grass, you could play with your kids or dog. Or, instead of laying down new sod, you could host a barbecue. Wow!  The possibilities are endless.

Landscaping With Synthetic Turf

A Beautiful Front Yard from Curb to Door With No Upkeep or Expense = Added Value


Artificial grass turf surfaces are a highly customizable addition to any landscape project whether residential or commercial. Artificial grass is great for landscaping because there are so many turf products now available which can be used for an array of landscape projects regardless of size, shape, or surface. Due to the fact that artificial turf can blend well with any other landscape surface, including sand, stone, brick, tile, it is  a wonderfully revolutionary surface for the landscaping industry. Aside from its versatility, there are many benefits that make artificial grass ideal for landscape projects.

Not only are water bills reduce, but time and effort is saved by having artificial grass. Artificial grass stays healthy, lush, and green throughout the entire year – a trait that is desired by many with harsh environmental elements, seasonal changes, or other troublesome issues concerning the look and health of natural grass. It does not dry out or die out with extreme weather conditions, such as scorching heat or rain and flooding. With its state-of-the-art drainage system that allows liquids and water to easily permeate through the turf, draining is completely manual and effective. With its ability to drain horizontally and vertically, the growth of bacteria and spores is prevented.  This adds up to profound savings for both residential owners and commercial businesses.

With no dirt or mud, artificial grass is a very clean surface. A special infill system is used to both cushion and help artificial grass remain natural and healthy in appearance. The small particles that make up the infill help create a softness and comfort for both low to high traffic areas. New artificial grass products are impressively designed for durability and function. With intricate yarn composition and strong backings, modern artificial turf is engineered to withstand a good amount of traffic as well as sports and recreational activities. Its durability can be beneficial for playground landscaping as well as for home landscaping for households with pets. Even rough play and digging do not harm artificial grass because of its unique design. Since it is also non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals, artificial grass products are completely friendly for both children and pets making it ideal for virtually all households.

Pet Yard Before

Do These Guys Look Happy with Their New Pet Yard by Smart Scapes

A Real Happy Camper

Artificial grass gives any landscaped area a clean and manicured look without feeling or looking fake. With its versatility, it can be blended and customized to fit any area. With its being virtually maintenance free and its ability to look lush and healthy throughout the entire year, artificial grass is the ultimate revolutionary and technologically advanced landscape surface. Artificial not only saves costs including maintenance time, but it also helps the environment.  This is a win-win situation!

Some not-to-pleasant thoughts for serious consideration:  Owners of natural grass have to contend with a variety of  problems that are associated with lawns including grubs and insects that eat away at the grass resulting in dead patches of grass.  Moreover, these grubs are the delicacy of certain nocturnal animals such as skunks, raccoons, and others who come searching for these larvae and destroy your lawn.  In order to achieve lawn perfection, a gardener will find it necessary to lay down a special soil aggregate that contains the perfect nutrients and drainage conditions for that particular variety of grass.The weeds will have to be kept at bay and for large lawns that’s done with a regular herbicide spray. In order to avoid beetles and other pests devastating the lawn, an additional spray of a pesticide is required.

And if that isn’t enough, the fantasy of rich green grass isn’t realistically achievable without serious WATERING and in Southern California and especially in our part of the world, SAN DIEGO, we’re talking about an excess usage of water. The most intelligent and responsible way to satisfy the needs of having a beautiful, functional, and cost effective lawn, is to have synthetic artificial turf installed by your local professional, SMART SCAPES, INC.

Amy's Pet Duck - Quack Quack by Smart Scapes

Posted in Cost and Labor Effective, Sport Lawns, Synthetic Turf, Water Friendly Landscapes | Leave a comment


 

The Technology of Artificial Grass and How It Works

Posted on March 16, 2011 by Fred

The Technology of Artificial Grass

A Stunning San Diego Pool Area

Artificial grass looks and feels better than the home-grown stuff!

From its multi-functional versatility to its Eco-friendly benefits, there are many ways in which artificial grass is promoted to consumers. With such an array of positive selling points, learning the basic foundation of how artificial grass works is important to any interested consumer. It is in the basic science of artificial grass that allows for its many usages as well as the countless benefits that contribute to its growing popularity and use. Artificial grass is engineered to completely replace and even outshine a traditional natural grass lawn.


Much of its popularity and growth in the landscaping field can be attributed to technological progression. Throughout the decades, the materials used to manufacture artificial grass have vastly improved and changed to be more durable as well as mimicking the aesthetic and texture of real grass. The use of polyurethane, polyethylene, and sometimes nylon fibers have made such technological improvements possible. These different polymers are sometimes combined together for different fiber textures. The combinations depend on manufacturing processes as well as product line budgets. Nylon tends to be the most pricey with polypropylene usually being the least in cost.


Each polymer also has a different melting point affecting each manufacturing process. After the polymer(s) reaches melting point, the ribbons are created and the artificial grass is ready for tufting. After the yarns are formed, the turf is tufted to a backing made from fabric. Polyurethane is then used as an adhesive for the polypropylene material. When the tufting manufacturing process is complete, artificial grass products are ready for installation. When the artificial grass is installed, a generous layer of small granules, known as infill, is scattered evenly throughout the surface of the turf to provide both cushioning, support for traffic, and added durability. This infill also helps to keep the grass blades upright and aesthetically beautiful.


The engineering process for artificial grass, especially the melting process for the polymers, acts as proof that artificial grass can withstand weather-related heat. Sun and extreme climate conditions do not measure up to the melting point reached to create the blades. Thus, melting or overheating due to the sun is not a concern with artificial grass.


With the new wave of modern artificial grass products on the market, many products have adopted special characteristics to add to their versatility including UV protection. With such construction, modern artificial grass can be used in different outdoor areas with different climatic conditions making it ideal for all households. Whether it is installed in a yard that comes into contact with several feet of snow during the winter or in a hot and dry environment such as found in the San Diego area of Southern California, artificial grass can withstand all conditions and climates. State of the art manufacturing techniques and materials make artificial grass the ideal surface for the modern household.

Sierra Pro for a Natural Looking Artificial Turf (by Tiger Turf)

It’s most notable feature is obviously the brown thatch which gives it such a realistic and natural look. Sierra Pro is the perfect fit for any landscape.

Majestic Pro Artificial Grass Two Toned Full Looking for a healthy yard

  • Designed to truly replicate grass
  • 1 3/4 in. blade height to acheive a natural appearance

Pet-Turf – Designed to truly replicate grass 1 5/8 in. blade height to achieve a natural appearance

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Is Artificial Turf Worth It?

Posted on February 19, 2011 by Fred

This Looks Worth It !

The conversion from a regular grass lawn to a synthetic grass lawn may seem pricey up front, however, with the long lifespan of a artificial grass lawn, coupled with its ability to save on bills each month makes it a money saver in the long run. The actual price of synthetic turf usually depends on the square footage, as it is the main unit used to figure out price.  When looking into using artificial turf, it is important to take into account all products, based not just upon price, but also quality. The cheapest synthetic turf products on the market tend to usually be older products, and thus might not have the most modern technology or benefits.
Some cheaper products might also not be of the best quality. There are synthetic grass products on the market for all budgets. However, it is best to make sure you know what you are getting for your money. For example, if you have a smaller budget to work with that can be slightly flexible, it may be a good idea to spend a little more money on better quality synthetic grass products, as these turf products can be the difference between a more natural looking and feeling lawn, as well as how well the lawn lasts. Excessively cheap artificial grass, which is sometimes sold in predetermined sizes or comes already cut can be limiting for customization. This is because they are usually older turf products that are left over, and so what ever is left over is what’s available-no more than that, leaving it somewhat challenging if you have a bigger lawn or areas that need extra turf.
Though the newest synthetic grass products might be a bit more expensive, they employ the latest technology, making them quite ideal. Newer turf that utilizes such technology is designed to be improvements of older and cheaper forms of turf. Thus, if you can afford the latest turf products, you are able to get quality and latest innovations combined.
It is estimated that approximately $2000-$3000 is spent per household a year on watering yards alone. This does not take into account several other factors, such as mowing, fertilizing, weeding, and other gardening maintenance that a regular grass lawn requires. With so much to upkeep just for real grass to simply survive, it is energy and cost effective to employ the use of a synthetic grass lawn. It is estimated that within three to four years, a synthetic grass lawn has already paid for itself with the money saved on maintenance costs. With the amount of money saved on synthetic turf, households can put their money elsewhere and focus on other priorities. Households with artificial turf can save several thousands of dollars after converting their lawns, making it a large money-saving tool that any property can benefit from.

The care and maintenance of a natural lawn can be both time consuming and costly. From mowing the lawn to applying weed prevention treatments to using fertilizers, ensuring a lawn’s beauty requires much effort. In many cases, busy individuals simply do not have the time necessary to devote to their lawn. When lawns are not properly maintained, they will become visually unappealing and may attract unwanted pests. For those individuals that want a well-manicured lawn without the toil and hassle of a natural lawn, an alternative they may want to consider is artificial turf. Artificial grass offers much of the same aesthetic appeal as does a natural lawn without the disadvantages. Artificial turf is excellent for a variety of applications, and those that choose it will not be disappointed.

BBQ AREA

PATIO AREA

Source: http://lifestyle.ezinemark.com

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Blog 4 A Testimonial: Artificial Grass for the Back Yard

Posted on January 22, 2011 by Fred

Hi Fred,

It’s so great to wake up each morning, look out my windows and marvel how beautifully manicured my lawn is and I didn’t have to do a thing!  It’s been three weeks since you and the crew completed the backyard landscape project and I can’t believe how great it continues to look.

I just love the look and the whole feel of the backyard.  NO BUGS!  I finally get to use the yard.  It’s so cool to come back from a run, layout on the lawn relaxing in the sun and not have to worry about ever mowing again.  You’re the best and the synthetic turf we chose together looks so natural it’s awesome!!

If you ever need a referral, please have them call me because I am one SATISFIED CUSTOMER!

Thank you so much,

Bob Levine

Before View of Back Yard

Back yard under construction

Finished Back Yard - View from patio

Finished View of Natural Looking Artificial Lawn

The SIERRA SERIES of turf products are the newest addition to our synthetic turf product line. It’s most notable feature is obviously the brown thatch which gives it such a realistic and natural look.  SIERRA PRO is the perfect fit for any landscape. Sierra Pro artificial turf will stand up to moderate traffic areas and stay looking great!

Sierra Pro for a Natural Looking Artificial Turf (by Tiger Turf)

Our MAJESTIC PRO artificial grass product is a great looking two-tone turf  featuring a state-of-the-art thatch. With it’s 88 oz. face weight and 1.75-inch pile height, Majestic Pro is one of our fullest looking products.

Majestic Pro Artificial Grass Two Toned Full Looking for a healthy looking yard ( by Tiger Turf)

MAJESTIC PRO ARTIFICIAL GRASS TWO-TONED FULL WEAVE for a healthy looking yard

FACTS ABOUT SYNTHETIC TURF:

The FACE WEIGHT OF ARTIFICIAL TURF is how much the yarn weighs per square yard not including the backing or infill. This measurement tells you how much product you are getting for your money as long as the comparison is completely parallel and equal. Nylon thatch based products are the most expensive to produce. Most artificial turf is produced using 28% nylon thatch, but it can also be made with up to 45% thatch which increases the quality, durability and thickness.

YARN TECHNOLOGY is also important. For example: How many microns per blade and yarn shape are critical for optimal performance.  Also, stitch rates to balance performance and aesthetics are crucial to achieving a top quality product.

Many synthetic turf applications are installed with generic styles of turf due to an erroneous  assumption that all turf is the same.  All levels of activity areas need to address quality, density, and aesthetics.  In addition, mid-level and high-level activity areas should have a thatch product with a higher density. A high-density thatch based product significantly recovers better during activity and grooming.

Not all artificial grass installations are the same! INSTALLATION QUALITY IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR BOTH LONGEVITY AND AESTHETICS. How the sub-surface is sculpted, how the edges are addressed, how the product is secured is critical to the overall appearance and life of artificial grass.

SOME OF THE MANY BENEFITS OF ARTIFICIAL TURF

SYNTHETIC TURF IS CHILD AND PET FRIENDLY!
IT LOOKS LIKE REAL GRASS AND IS GREEN ALL YEAR LONG!
IT DOES NOT REQUIRE MOWING, TRIMMING, FERTILIZING, OR WATERING!
IT HAS A LONG LIFESPAN!
IT SAVES WATER CONSUMPTION WHICH IS ESPECIALLY BENEFICIAL IN SOUTHERN  CALIFORNIA!
BUGS ARE NOT ATTRACTED TO ARTIFICIAL TURF!
Because artificial turf is not organic, bugs are not attracted to it.  As a result, bugs will likely move to a yard with real grass. In addition, bugs have a difficult time penetrating the perforated backing.
AN ARTIFICIAL LAWN CAN ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY!
ARTIFICIAL TURF SAVES YOU MONEY OVER THE COST OF MAINTAINING REAL GRASS!
AND FINALLY, ARTIFICIAL TURF PROVIDES THE OWNER EXTRA TIME TO ENJOY THEIR YARD SINCE IT IS BASICALLY MAINTENANCE FREE!

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Blog 3-A Testimonial: Artificial Grass For Front Yards

Posted on January 13, 2011 by Fred

Our customers are absolutely loving our quality synthetic grass/turf and landscaping services.  Here is what they are saying about our products and service!

My Wife and I spent four months working on plans to completely transform our front yard into a beautiful, low maintenance, water wise landscape. An important aspect of this design included artificial turf.  After considerable research into the different companies and products offered, my wife was not completely thrilled about what we had learned.

We had reached a dilemma until we received  a recommendation from our contractor.  He recommended that we immediately contact Fred Espinosa of SmartScapes Inc.  Upon following his advice we were pleased to have the entire process explained in detail including complete in-depth information regarding TIGER TURF and the manufacturer of this great product.   Fred addressed all of our questions and concerns in a timely and professional manner – a  definite WOW factor for us!

The installation and completion of the work and artificial turf was as stated and the crew was professional .  They were more than patient with all of our questions and concerns. We could not be more happy with the finished product and our beautiful yard!

We live on a private street some distance from the main stream of traffic and we have been amazed by the number of people who have heard about our yard and have driven by or stopped to watch the transformation and to ask questions about our “Landscaper” and our beautiful artificial grass.  They have all been very impressed and enthusiastic with our wonderful results.

Working  with Fred and his crew has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience and one we will duplicate for our backyard next year. To say that we are pleased is truly an understatement!


Most Sincerely,

Roy & Teri Lakeside, Ca.


FRONT YARD BEFORE

FRONT YARD UNDER CONSTRUCTION

FRONT YARD STREET VIEW

FRONT YARD SIDE VIEW




TIGER TURF

#Artificial grass has been used for several landscaping areas because of its many benefits. With its realistic and durable nature, artificial grass can be used not only for backyards, but also for front yards. For many homeowners, their front yards are their pride and joy-something they look forward to maintaining for several years. A front yard can either make or break the appearance of a property. Thus, the significance of its aesthetics is great. Artificial grass is a beautiful front yard surface that is comparable to the healthiest natural grass. Its pigmentation stays throughout the seasons, but never looks overly green or unnatural.

The great thing about artificial grass is that it can be custom fit for any size front yard. Even if you have windy walkways, pebbles, bricks, or other landscaping features, artificial grass products can be installed around these areas.

This creates a seamless and clean look that meshes well with any yard. Also, artificial grass goes well with real plants and flowers in any front yard, creating a healthy looking surface that looks like real grass. Synthetic grass is designed to withstand watering or an automatic sprinkler system that these other plants and flowers require. Its state-of-the-art drainage system allows it to manually drain water and liquids so it is hassle-free. Thus, you do not have to be concerned with getting the grass wet.

Front yards that have switched from natural to artificial grass have a domino effect on entire neighborhoods, since many homeowners see the benefits and want to switch themselves. It is almost as though front yards with artificial grass are models of the modern front yard. This shows that synthetic grass’ popularity is based on its effectiveness and natural beauty that homeowners desire. Look to artificial grass for an eco-friendly revamping for your front yard, which will save you money and continue to look amazing for many years to come.

# http://www.tigerexpresslandscape.com/

Comments from Fred:

Satisfied clients are the best marketing strategy.  For that reason, referrals and recommendations of past customers is of utmost importance to our business.

That’s why SmartScpaes make sure their clients are happy!











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