If you’re tired of battling brown spots, high water bills, or constant yard maintenance, you’re not alone. More and more Arizona homeowners are switching from natural lawns to artificial turf – and for good reason. With scorching summers and year-round sunshine, artificial grass offers a clean, green, low-maintenance alternative that holds up under pressure (and heat!).
Artificial Turf vs. Natural Grass in Arizona
Let’s be real – keeping a natural lawn green in Arizona is a full-time job. The intense sun, dry climate, and water restrictions make it tough to maintain healthy grass year-round. Natural grass requires:
- Frequent watering
- Mowing and edging
- Fertilizers and weed control
- Seasonal overseeding
By contrast, artificial turf stays green no matter the weather. No watering, no mowing, and no mud after monsoon season. It’s especially ideal for pets, kids, pool areas, and anyone looking to cut down on water use.
Water Savings
In fact, artificial turf can save up to 36 gallons of water per square foot per year in Queen Creek. For larger lawns, that adds up fast – not just in water usage, but in cost savings, too. Want to do your own calculations? Head over to Queen Creek Water Calculator.
What Does Artificial Turf Cost in Arizona?
The average cost of artificial turf in Arizona typically ranges from $8 to $14 per square foot, including materials and installation. Prices depend on:
- Turf quality and blade type
- Project size
- Access and site prep needs
- Infill and underlayment materials
While the upfront cost is higher than installing sod, the long-term savings on water, lawn care, and maintenance make artificial grass a smart investment for Arizona homeowners.
Types of Artificial Turf
Not all artificial grass is created equal. Depending on your lifestyle and goals, you’ll want to choose the right type of turf for your space.
1. Landscape Turf
Best for front yards and general use areas. It’s soft, realistic, and comes in various blade shapes and colors to mimic real grass.
2. Pet Turf
Designed with durability and drainage in mind. It includes antimicrobial infill and quick-draining backing to help with pet odor and cleanup.
3. Sports Turf
Used for athletic fields or backyard putting greens. This turf is shorter, tighter, and built for performance and wear resistance.
4. Playground Turf
Soft, padded, and safe for kids. Often paired with shock-absorbent foam padding to reduce injury risk from falls.
What Goes Under Artificial Turf?
Installing artificial turf isn’t just about rolling out green carpet. The layers underneath are just as important for durability, drainage, and performance. Here’s what’s typically under artificial turf in Arizona:
- Excavation: The topsoil is removed and leveled.
- Base Layer: Crushed rock or decomposed granite is compacted to form a sturdy foundation.
- Weed Barrier: A fabric layer blocks weeds from growing through.
- Artificial Turf: The turf is rolled out, trimmed, and secured.
- Infill: Silica sand, rubber, or pet-safe infill is brushed in to support the blades and improve durability. For pets, special antimicrobial infill helps with pet odor.
Proper installation is key – cutting corners here can lead to sinking, poor drainage, or turf that shifts and wrinkles over time.
How Long Does Artificial Turf Last in Arizona?
With proper installation and maintenance, artificial grass typically lasts 8-10 years in Arizona’s harsh climate. UV-resistant turf is built to withstand years of blazing sun without fading or breaking down. In regions with milder temperatures and less intense sun exposure, artificial turf can last even longer, 15-20 years. But in our experience, 8-10 years is how long artificial turf can endure the Arizona climate.
- Minimal maintenance: Brush occasionally, remove debris, rinse as needed.
- Pet owners: Clean regularly to prevent odor and buildup.
- Bonus: No brown patches, no re-seeding, and no unexpected irrigation leaks!
Is Artificial Turf Right for You?
If you’re ready to say goodbye to lawn chores and hello to a lush, worry-free yard, artificial turf is a great choice for Arizona homes. From water savings and durability to kid- and pet-friendliness, it’s a smart upgrade that looks great all year long.
At Patriot Pools, we not only build pools, we design and install landscapes including high-quality artificial grass that’s built for Arizona’s climate – and your lifestyle. Whether you want a modern front yard, a pet-friendly play area, or a backyard that’s always photo-ready, we’ve got the turf for you.
Contact us today and let’s create a space that stays green – no matter the season. Call us at 480-209-3475 or request a free quote online.
