Artificial grass in St. Louis, MO is an excellent alternative to the real thing. It stays green regardless of the season, can accommodate high foot traffic without getting damaged and doesn’t attract pests. With the right upkeep practices, it can even last for up to 15 years or more. You just need to know the dos and don’ts of synthetic turf maintenance!
Dos and Don’ts of Synthetic Grass Care
There’s more to taking care of artificial grass than removing leaves and other debris from its surface. Here are the things that you should and shouldn’t do to keep your turf in tip-top condition:
• DO: Hose the artificial grass regularly.
Give the entire installation a good rinse often —at least once a week if it’s seldom used and once a day if it gets high foot traffic daily. Doing so will eliminate dirt and other small debris from its surface.
• DO: Brush the synthetic turf regularly to keep them upright.
Pay close attention to the areas that get a ton of foot traffic and accommodate heavy equipment and furniture. Brush against the grain to help the fibers stand straight again. Use medium- or soft-bristled brushes. Avoid tools with metal or steel bristles as they can damage beyond repair.
• DO: Trim the trees, plants and hedges close to synthetic grass often.
This will reduce the leaves and other natural debris that will fall on your synthetic grass in St. Louis. Keep a garbage bag handy while you work for trimmings.
• DO: Test commercial turf care products.
Use commercial turf maintenance products only when your usual cleaning solutions are not working. Follow their application instructions carefully. Before applying them to your artificial grass, test them out on a small portion of your turf. If the turf discolors or reacts negatively to the solution, look for a different product.
• DO: Be prompt when dealing with spills.
Some liquids are harder to remove from synthetic grass in St. Louis once they settle on the turf. Blot up everyday substances, such as coffee, tea, carbonated beverages, alcoholic drinks, urine and blood, immediately. Wash the affected area with a soap and water solution, then rinse it thoroughly with cool water.
It would take a lot more than a soap and water solution to get rid of oil- and wax-based spills. Use mineral spirits to draw out the substance if mild household detergents don’t work. Don’t forget to test the solution on a small portion of your artificial grass in St. Louis, MO before using it extensively.
• DON’T: Let pet waste residue linger on the turf.
Once you’re done rinsing your canine’s pee and potty spots, inspect the affected areas. Make sure there are no traces left among the synthetic grass blades. Use a toothbrush to scrub off residues.
• DON’T: Scrape off sticky spills as is.
If tar, tree sap, gum and other sticky substances find their way to your artificial grass, don’t scrape them off. You may damage the synthetic fibers. Use aerosol refrigerants or dry ice to freeze them. Once they solidify, scrape them off using your fingers or a blunt tool.
• DON’T: Place grills, barbeques and fire pits near synthetic grass.
While artificial turf is more resistant to heat than its natural counterpart, it is not impervious to fire. Hot coal and cinders can damage its surface beyond repair. To avoid such instances, situate equipment that uses fire far from artificial grass.
• DON’T: Let vehicles use artificial turf.
Artificial turf in St. Louis can endure heavy weights, but that doesn’t mean that it can take accommodate cars without getting damaged. Refrain from installing the turf on driveways and other locations that get tire traffic.
Keep Artificial Grass in Top Condition
Finally, make sure to follow all the upkeep instructions of your synthetic turf installers. With their years of experience in designing, installing and maintaining artificial grass, they surely know a thing or two when it comes to turf care. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the installation.
Looking for a professional installer in St. Louis, MO? St. Louis Artificial Grass Experts has you covered. We offer premium turf products, bespoke landscaping solutions and top-quality installation services. Call us now at 408-317-0931 for a FREE quote on your project!