Maintenance Tips You Can't Miss!

Artificial turf has become an increasingly popular alternative to natural grass due to its many advantages. It requires minimal maintenance, is durable and always looks lush and green. One of the biggest advantages of synthetic grass is that it's much easier to tend to than real grass, but that doesn't mean it doesn't need any maintenance at all. Caring for your artificial turf is important to preserve its appearance and ensure its longevity. Although it requires far less maintenance than natural grass, it still needs to be looked after properly to ensure it stays in perfect condition and lasts for years to come. But how do you take care and maintain artificial turf? Luckily, the process is not at all complicated.

Below we've outlined our top tips for keeping your artificial turf looking and feeling clean and fresh in the Tampa weather.

Maintaining Artificial Grass: The Do's and Don'ts

Before we begin, let's consider the materials you will need: A leaf blower or soft bristle brush, a plastic rake, garden hose with sprayer or pressure washer, possibly soap or a deodorizing product (optional).

Do's of maintaining artificial grass: 

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your Tampa turf looking natural and clean. Here are some important do's to keep in mind:

Sweep Away Debris Regularly

If you want your artificial grass to look its best, you need to be diligent about sweeping it regularly. Depending on the size of your property, you may need to do this daily or every other day, especially during the dryer months when leaves and twigs can collect on different surfaces. Some people choose to invest in a leaf blower to make this task easier. If you're using a leaf blower, make sure to set it on a low speed setting to avoid displacing the infill. However, a simple broom can also do the trick. Keep in mind that you'll want to use a stiff-bristled broom to really get into the fibers of the grass and remove all debris. For homeowners who want a flawlessly maintained outdoor space, a power broom is an essential tool. With the ability to swiftly and efficiently remove debris, moss, and grime from patios, walkways, and driveways, a power broom is a must-have investment. Unlike other clunky outdoor equipment, the compact design of a power broom ensures easy storage in your garage or shed. When shopping for a power broom, you'll find a variety of options on Amazon, including this highly rated power broom model. Moreover, if you reside in the Tampa area, renting a power broom from a local store is a viable alternative. The process of operating a power broom is a breeze, thanks to its rotating bristles that effortlessly sweep away dirt and debris. Making power broom cleaning a part of your regular maintenance routine will help provide a beautifully pristine outdoor space throughout the year. While a power broom is the recommended tool for cleaning, a turf rake can be a suitable alternative for those on a budget. However, it is important to choose a plastic rake to avoid damaging the grass. Using a metal rake can cause irreversible harm to the fabric or backing of the artificial grass. Turf rakes are gentle enough to clear debris without causing harm or damage to your artificial lawn. Be sure to remove any debris from the edges of the turf as well.

Clean Up Spills As Quickly As Possible

One of the biggest benefits of artificial grass is that it's more stain-resistant than real grass, but that doesn’t mean that spills won’t happen. When they do, it’s important to clean them up as quickly as possible - the longer you wait, the harder it will be to remove the stain. Some stains may linger despite regular cleaning. For stubborn stains, start by blotting with a dry cloth or paper towel to remove any excess moisture, then make a cleaning solution with mild soap and warm water. Apply the solution with a soft-bristled brush and rinse with water, then blot with a dry cloth again to remove any remaining moisture. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this may cause the fibers to detach. After scrubbing, rinse the area with water to remove the soap. 

How to care for artificial grass in Tampa, Florida - read on to learn more.

Eliminate Odor

Artificial grass can trap unpleasant pet odors or smells from the surrounding environment. If you notice your artificial grass smells, deodorize it using an artificial grass deodorizer. Spray the deodorizing product evenly over the grass, then rinse the product away after the recommended amount of time. Use an artificial grass deodorizer to effectively eliminate any unpleasant odors.

Use a Hose or Power Washer

In addition to sweeping your artificial grass, you should plan to hose it down every few weeks to give it a thorough cleaning. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris from the surface. It’s important that you choose the right kind of hose nozzle for this task, as you won’t want to use a high-pressure nozzle that could damage the faux grass itself, but you also won’t want to use a low-pressure nozzle that won’t clean it properly. You can use either a fan-type nozzle or a spray-type nozzle - don’t forget to clear any debris from the grass before you start, so you don't end up spreading dirt around. Be sure to keep a distance of at least six inches between the nozzle and the surface and aim the water at an angle so it rinses away any dirt or dust. If you're using a pressure washer, opt for a lower pressure setting to avoid displacing the infill. Repeat this process until you’ve covered the entire lawn.

Fluff Up the Fibers Every So Often

Over time the fibers on your artificial grass may become compressed due to daily foot traffic or pets that constantly tread along the same path. After you have rinsed your Tampa artificial grass, use a stiff bristle brush or power broom to brush the grass fibers. Fluffing up the fibers will make your grass look as good as new. Use a plastic rake or broom to gently brush in the opposite direction of the grass blades. This will help loosen up the fibers and make your grass appear fuller.

Don'ts of maintaining artificial grass:

To keep your artificial grass looking beautiful, avoid these common mistakes:

To maintain the longevity of your fake grass, there are several important precautions that you should take. Firstly, you should avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach to clean the grass, as this can damage the fibers and backing, but they’re also not good for the environment. Instead, opt for mild soap and warm water when cleaning up spills or doing a thorough cleaning. If you do feel that you need a more powerful cleaning solution for your fake grass, be sure to read the instructions carefully and to test it in a small, inconspicuous spot before applying it to the entire area. Secondly, be careful not to use sharp objects or metal rakes when maintaining the grass, as these can cause damage or tear in the fibers. As previously mentioned, choosing the right tools for your turf is essential. When it comes to raking, using a plastic rake is a safe option as it won't cause any damage to the backing. Traditional metal rakes can be rough on the turf and may cause it to look unsightly over time. By switching to a plastic rake, you can ensure your turf stays in excellent condition without any harm to the backing. Ultimately, it's all about keeping your lawn looking healthy and vibrant for years to come. Additionally, it is important to avoid smoking or using open flames near the grass, as this can melt the fibers. Lastly, do not park any vehicles or heavy machinery on the grass for prolonged periods of time, such as weeks or months without moving them. This can create a significant decrease in the durability of the artificial grass, leaving homeowners with costly repairs or replacements in the future.

What to Do if Your Artificial Grass Becomes Damaged

While synthetic grass is designed to be durable and long-lasting, it may occasionally become damaged. If you notice tears or holes in the turf, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Here are some steps to take if your artificial grass becomes damaged

First, assess the extent of the damage. If the damage is minor, you may be able to repair it yourself. To repair minor damage, use a turf adhesive to patch any tears or holes in the artificial grass. Allow the adhesive to dry completely before using the turf.

Second, for more extensive damage, we recommend consulting a professional who specializes in turf repairs. Whether we installed your turf or not, if you are experiencing issues and noticing deterioration on parts of your fake grass, please give us a call. While we don't specialize in repairs, we are experts at dealing with artificial turf, and we'd be happy to speak to you and see if we should come take a look. Sometimes we're able to use the same skills and tools we use for installations to mend a section of the lawn.

In any case, we always strive to provide our customers with the best advice and guidance possible. So, if you have any questions or concerns about your artificial turf, don't hesitate to give us a call. We're here to help!

Lastly, prevent future damage. Maintaining an artificial grass lawn will make it last longer. Taking preventative measures like you've read about in this article, is the key to keeping your artificial grass fresh and clean. Artificial grass has a drainage system that allows water to flow through quickly. Keep it clear of debris to ensure proper drainage and prevent waterlogging.

Try to limit the amount of foot traffic in heavily used areas by creating a pathway, consider placing pavers or stepping stones. It is important to try and limit the amount of foot traffic in heavily used areas to maintain the durability of your artificial grass.

To achieve this, it is recommended to create a pathway using pavers or stepping stones. It should be noted that pavers should be installed at the same time as the artificial grass to ensure a quality outcome. Our company can provide this service, which requires exact measurements and careful planning. We advise against customers attempting this on their own, as it can ruin the lawn and disrupt the existing adhesive if areas are cut or pulled up. Place a doormat at the entrance of your home or back yard to trap dirt, dust, and debris that can get tracked onto your artificial grass. Watch your pets to make sure they aren't digging or scratching at the seams or outer edges of the turf as this can begin to loosen and disrupt the installation. Consider installing a pet barrier to prevent them from causing damage to the turf.

To keep your Tampa Turf in top condition, it's important to perform regular cleaning as well as an occasional deep cleaning or rejuvenation, which may involve redistributing the infill, and typically needs to be done about once a year for normal residential use. Learn how to do this yourself or call us to help with the process. By following these tips and tricks, you can keep your grass clean, avoid damage, and maintain its appearance and performance.

Interested in having your own Tampa turf? To learn more about our products and pricing, simply submit an online request or call us at 813-592-5181 to schedule a free estimate. Our talented team of experts will work with you to design a customized solution that meets your needs and budget, delivering outstanding results with every installation. All of our designs are tailored to your exact property. We don't use any ready-made kits or out-of-the-box options. Each and every project is one-of-a-kind based on the specific needs of our clients. So why wait? Contact us now and take the first step towards transforming your outdoor space into a beautiful, low-maintenance oasis that you can enjoy all year round.