The Question I Get Asked Most
"Should I go with artificial turf or real grass?" My answer is always the same: it depends on how you use your yard. Here's the honest, contractor-level breakdown.
Upfront Cost Comparison
Artificial Turf Installation
- Material + installation: $10-$18/sqft
- 1,000 sqft yard: $10,000 – $18,000
- Includes: Excavation, base prep, drainage layer, turf, infill, seaming
Natural Grass (Sod) Installation
- Material + installation: $2-$5/sqft
- 1,000 sqft yard: $2,000 – $5,000
Natural grass wins on day one. But let's look at the 10-year picture.
10-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Artificial Turf (10 years)
- Installation: $14,000 (avg for 1,000 sqft)
- Annual maintenance: $200/year = $2,000
- Water: $0
- 10-year total: ~$16,000
Natural Grass (10 years)
- Installation: $3,500
- Annual maintenance: $3,600/year = $36,000
- Water: $1,800/year = $18,000
- Re-sodding: $3,500
- 10-year total: ~$61,000
Artificial turf costs 74% less over 10 years. That's not a typo.
When to Choose Artificial Turf
- Pool surrounds: No mud, no grass clippings in the pool, always green
- Pet areas: Drainage-optimized turf handles pet waste without dead spots
- Play areas: Consistent, safe surface for kids
- Low-use areas: Side yards, narrow strips
- Rental properties: Zero maintenance for tenants
When to Choose Real Grass
- You love gardening and enjoy lawn care
- Large open areas (turf gets expensive over 2,000+ sqft)
- Cooling benefit: Real grass is 20-30°F cooler than turf on hot days
- Environmental preference: Real grass sequesters carbon and supports pollinators
The Heat Issue: Let's Be Honest
The #1 complaint about artificial turf in LA: it gets hot. On a 95°F day, surface temps can reach 150-170°F. Solutions include shade from a pergola (30-40°F cooler), zeolite infill (15-25°F reduction), a quick hose-down, and premium higher-density turf.
The Hybrid Approach (Our Recommendation)
For most LA backyards, we recommend a hybrid design: artificial turf for pool borders, pathways, and side yards, combined with drought-tolerant planting beds for visual variety and environmental benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does artificial turf drain well in rain?
Quality turf drains at 30+ inches per hour — faster than real grass. With proper base preparation, drainage is never an issue.
How long does artificial turf last?
Quality turf lasts 15-20 years in LA's climate. We install commercial-grade turf with 8+ year warranties.
Does artificial turf hurt home resale value?
In LA, no. Quality turf installation is viewed positively by most buyers, especially around pools. The key is professional installation.
