The Cost Savings of Artificial Turf vs. Natural Grass
Maintaining a lush, green backyard can be a costly endeavor, especially when you have energetic kids and dogs running around tearing it up.
According to Homeguide, the average American household spends around $200 – $300 a month on lawn care and landscaping. That quickly adds up to roughly $1,200 every year and up just to keep the grass green.
That’s a substantial chunk of your hard-earned money, especially when you factor in the ongoing costs of water, fertilizers, pesticides, and extreme weather conditions that can strike at any time of the year in North Texas.
At North Texas Luxury Lawns we are at the front lines of natural grass vs. artificial turf. Let’s take a look at the financial differences between them.
Costs to Maintain Natural Grass
Water alone can be a significant expense on natural grass, with the average household using around 120,000 gallons per year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Assuming an average water cost of $4 per 1,000 gallons in North Texas, you can easily expect water bills ranging between $60 and $80 dollars per month if your water comes from the City of Fort Worth.
Then there are the costs of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, which can easily run into hundreds of dollars each year, depending on the size of your lawn and the products you use. Not to mention the ongoing maintenance costs of mowing, edging, and aerating, which can add up quickly if you hire a professional lawn care service.
Annual Cost Breakdown on Natural Grass
January- February:
Texans typically have a dormant lawn and face minimal expenses. Most people don’t need to water in the winter but may have to once a month if the weather is dry enough.
March:
- Pre-emergent herbicide application: $50-$80
- Fertilizer (nitrogen-rich): $50-$100
April:
- Lawn aeration service: $100-$200
- Mowing/edging (weekly): $120-$200
May:
- Mowing/edging (weekly): $120-$200
- Potential grub control treatment: $50-$100
June:
- Mowing/edging (weekly): $120-$200
- Weed control/herbicide application: $50-$100
July:
- Mowing/edging (twice weekly): $240-$400
- Increased water usage: $80-$120
August:
- Mowing/edging (twice weekly): $240-$400
- Increased water usage: $80-$120
September:
- Mowing/edging (weekly): $120-$200
- Fall fertilizer application: $50-$100
October:
- Mowing/edging (weekly): $120-$200
- Potential fungicide treatment: $50-$100
November:
- Final mowing/edging: $30-$50
- Winterization fertilizer: $50-$100
December:
Dormant lawn season begins with minimal expenses
Estimated Total Annual Cost (not including fluctuating water bills): $1,500 – $2,700
*These are approximate prices, and vary based on the specific products used and the charges associated with any professional lawn care services.
Our cost breakdown does not include the cost to purchase new lawn equipment (if you maintain the lawn yourself) or any potential landscaping services beyond basic lawn care. The basics like lawnmowers, weed eaters, edgers, and leaf blowers, can cost you nearly $2,000 alone if you’re investing in the top models on the market.
Cost to Install Artificial Turf
Now, let’s consider the cost of installing North Texas Luxury Lawns Luxury Signature Series artificial turf. At a base price of $12.25 per square foot, you can multiply that times the square footage of your yard to get a rough estimate.
While this may seem like a significant upfront cost, the long-term savings can be substantial.
How Much Money Do You Save with Artificial Grass?
With artificial turf, you’ll eliminate the need for constant watering, mowing, and the use of harmful and expensive chemicals. Sure, you may need to use a little water to wash off your artificial grass if your pets make a big mess, but we guarantee you’ll save more water annually.
According to a study by the Synthetic Turf Council, artificial turf can save homeowners up to 70% on water costs compared to natural grass.
Additionally, you’ll no longer need to purchase expensive lawn care equipment or hire professional services. No matter how hard the rain, your grass won’t grow, and maintenance really only requires a monthly brushing!
When you factor in the savings on water, fertilizers, pesticides, and maintenance costs over the typical 15-20-year lifespan of artificial turf, the cost savings of artificial turf quickly cuts down on your immediate landscape investments. Not to mention the added value of having a beautifully manicured, low-maintenance backyard that’s perfect for your children and pets to enjoy year-round.
Say Goodbye to Expensive Lawn Care
By eliminating the ongoing expenses of water, fertilizers, pesticides, and maintenance, you’ll be able to divert those funds elsewhere while you enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance turf backyard.
When it comes to artificial turf installation, choose a company with a strong reputation for excellence. North Texas Luxury Lawns has built a solid reputation as a top artificial turf installation company with exceptional customer service throughout Dallas and the surrounding North Texas areas.
With our experience and commitment to high-quality materials, you can rest assured that your investment in artificial turf will save you money in the long run, and provide a stunning, eco-friendly backyard oasis for your family to cherish for years to come.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.