Artificial Sod Vs. Natural Grass - Which One's Right For My Yard?

Choosing between artificial sod and natural grass can feel like a tough call. Natural grass looks beautiful, but it requires upkeep, and the coastal climate and terrain of the Outer Banks can make maintaining a healthy lawn challenging at times. On the other hand, not everyone is keen on the idea of artificial grass, which has long been seen as a "lesser" alternative to the real thing. So which do you choose?

At OBX Yard Co., we specialize in both artificial turf installation and natural sod installation, so we know that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to the question of which one's the best: the answer is different for every customer. We've helped countless Kill Devil Hills homeowners make the right decision based on their budget, lifestyle, and property conditions, and we can lay out the pros and cons to help you decide which one's right for you.

Natural Grass: Classic But Maintenance Intensive

Natural grass offers a soft, organic look that many homeowners love. It's cooler to the touch than artificial turf and supports natural soil health, which is especially beneficial in coastal areas like Kill Devil Hills. There's a reason natural grass has remained the go-to choice for residential lawns across the nation over the decades.

However, it does require consistent upkeep. Between mowing, watering, fertilizing, and pest control, a natural lawn can demand both time and money. Factor in our humid coastal environment, fungal diseases, and sandy soil, and some homeowners may find that keeping their grass in great shape is more trouble than it's worth.

If you enjoy lawn care as a hobby or want to create a sustainable, natural environment, grass might be the right choice. Just be prepared to invest in irrigation and seasonal treatments to keep it lush year-round.

Artificial Sod: Low-Maintenance, High Impact

If you thought all artificial sod was just the cheapo Astroturf you may have encountered as a kid, guess again. Artificial sod is an increasingly popular landscaping alternative, especially for vacation homes or busy homeowners who want great curb appeal without the hassle. With expert, high-quality artificial turf installation, you get a perfectly green, even lawn that stays that way regardless of weather or foot traffic.

One major benefit of artificial turf is that it doesn't require mowing, watering, or fertilizing. This can save hundreds of dollars annually on lawn care costs, not to mention hours of your time. It's also ideal for shaded areas or places where grass struggles to grow, or dry yards with poor irrigation or fast-draining soil.

That said, it's not entirely maintenance-free. Over time, it may need brushing or rinsing, especially if you have pets. Also, unlike natural grass, artificial turf can become hot in direct sunlight, though newer materials are improving in this area.

If your priority is a long-lasting, clean-cut appearance with minimal upkeep, artificial turf installation is a smart investment. Just keep in mind that it won't have the same cooling effect as real grass, and it may not be ideal if you want a natural yard that can support the local ecosystem.

So, Which One's Best?

Ultimately, deciding which one is right for you comes down to you and your priorities. However, regardless of whether you choose artificial turf or the real deal, quality matters. Both artificial and natural sod need to be of high quality and installed by seasoned landscaping professionals to ensure that you end up with a great-looking, long-lasting lawn. That's where OBX Yard Co. comes in.

As Kill Devil Hills' leading landscaper, OBX Yard Co. specializes in landscape transformation with both natural sod and artificial turf installation. We ensure that the products we use are of high quality and are installed efficiently and expertly. No matter which option you go with, you won't have to wait long to start enjoying your new lawn. Our seasoned landscapers can roll out the green carpet for you almost overnight!

Looking for expert natural sod or artificial turf installation in Kill Devil Hills? If so, call OBX Yard Co. today at 252-256-3501.