A QUICK GUIDE TO PROPERLY TAKING CARE OF YOUR NEW ARTIFICIAL TURF IN PORTLAND
Artificial turf is a perfect substitute for natural grass on both residential and commercial properties. In an area like Portland where water supply can be limited, going artificial is a smart decision. Apart from saving a lot of money on maintenance, you can also enjoy better underfoot comfort and safety for your children and pets with artificial grass than with real one. You’ll also get to cut down on fuel use as it doesn’t require mowing.
Despite all its amazing features, however, artificial grass is not invincible. It still needs some kind of TLC to last long and look appealing at all times. Following are tips on how to efficiently take care of your artificial lawn to prolong its functional life.
Occasional Rinses with the Hose
Rainfall will normally keep artificial grass in Portland clean naturally. For those times when rain is scarce, however, all it takes is a rinse with your garden hose to get rid of accumulated dust, pollen, and airborne pollutants.
What About Soiled Areas?
If you have lightly soiled areas, mix up some warm water and a little bit of household detergent in a bucket and sponge mop the area. For heavily soiled areas, use a mixture of household ammonia in hot water, then rinse the area with warm water.
Branches and Other Debris
There’s no way to prevent branches, leaves, and other debris from getting on any lawn, especially if you have trees and bushes surrounding your yard. Inspect your artificial grass on a regular basis, particularly after storms or on days when there are high winds. Don’t let broken branches and debris stay on the grass for a long time. Even if artificial lawns are made to endure pressure, don’t risk it. Besides, your artificial grass looks best when free of any debris.
Stains and Blemishes
Just like your indoor carpeting, any noticeable stains and blemishes on artificial turf should be taken care of as soon as you spot them. For liquid stains, blot with a paper towel, but don’t rub. Kitty litter and other dry absorbents can also help. Sweep the area after the liquid stain is absorbed. For solid or paste-like deposits, use a spatula or plastic table knife, but nothing too sharp to avoid cutting the blades.
Pet Waste and Stains
Artificial turf can be just as appealing to pets as it is to humans. If you happen to have some four-legged family members that will be romping around your new artificial lawn, expect to have some things to clean up now and then. If Fido uses your yard as his own personal pee pad, simply rinse it off after your pooch is done doing his business. Generally, rinsing off your synthetic grass once a month should help to keep pet waste and stains in check.
What About Pet Stain Odors?
Enzyme neutralizers can usually limit and control odors from pet stains. You can do this with a homemade solution that includes a mix of half water and distilled vinegar. Apply the mixture to the areas where your pet normally takes care of business and rinse off the surface with a garden hose.
Fungus and/or Mold Spots
Top-quality artificial grass is usually fairly durable and resistant to mold and fungus. Still, there are times when fungus and mold spots may appear. If you see such stains, use a solution of water and one-percent hydrogen peroxide. Use a soft sponge to clean the area and rinse it afterwards.
Tree Sap
If you have sap-producing trees that drool on your grass, freezing can be a safe way to remove sap stains. Dry ice or aerosol packs of refrigerant can be used for removal. After you freeze the stain, simply scrape it away with a spatula or plastic knife. One way to minimize such stains is to consider using landscaping stones around your trees.
Cross Brushing
For those times when you don’t have a specific stain to tackle, keep your artificial turf looking fresh and beautiful with cross brushing. This refers to going against the grain with a turf brush. Not only will this remove any light dirt, but it will also give your grass a fluffed up appearance that can make it look even more natural. Pay particular attention to high-traffic areas when doing your regular brushing.
Use the Right Tools
You’re not going to be able to automatically use your normal yard tools on artificial grass in Portland. Don’t use anything with steel spikes or points to avoid damaging the mesh backing. Instead, opt for turf brushes, outdoor lawn vacuum (not essential, but certainly convenient), leaf blowers and catchers, and rubber landscaping rakes or ones with plastic points.
It’s easy to see why synthetic grass for landscaping and recreation is growing approximately 10-15 percent each year in the United States. Sure, you’ll have to do a few things here and there to care for your new artificial turf, but it can be a smart, long-term investment that can pay for itself when you factor in your savings from lawn care needs and water costs.
Source:
Why Fake Grass is Gaining Popularity, HouseLogic.com