Property owners across the U.S. are catching on to the trend of artificial grass for their lawns, playgrounds, and commercial locations. The lower maintenance costs and requirements are one of the biggest reasons they make the switch. But a recurring question we get is, “what do I need to do to protect my turf in the winter?” So we’re here to answer that for you today. Read on to learn about what to do with your artificial grass for the winter months.
Does Frost Ruin Fake Grass?
In short, no, frost will not damage your artificial grass. The grass blades themselves may freeze like any other grass would and will become crunchy underfoot. But you don’t need to worry about frost or walking on it to cause damage. In the spring, when the last frost has happened, you can use a turf brush/broom to help fluff it back up.
Can Artificial Grass Get Icy?
Not always, but sometimes in the right conditions, artificial grass can develop an icy glaze. This is more likely to happen in mixed winter weather, like snow changing to sleet or freezing rain. Be cautious and check for ice before walking on it — especially if you have been experiencing any precipitation below freezing temperatures.
Will Snow Damage My Artificial Grass?
Snow itself won’t typically affect your artificial lawn. You can walk on it, your kids can still play in the snow on it, and your pets are free to run through the snow, too. The individual grass blades might flatten under the weight of the snow if it’s been lying on the surface for a while, but they will bounce back. You can help expedite that process with a turf brush, but you should wait until spring, so you don’t inadvertently damage the turf fibers in cold weather.
Is it Okay to Use Ice-Melt Products on My Artificial Lawn?
No, you should never use any kind of ice-melt salt or products on your fake grass. The salt and chemicals in these products are too harsh for artificial grass. It can clog the drainage holes in your backing system and negatively impact your lawn’s drainage and overall turf performance and longevity. It is strongly advised you let snow melt naturally to protect your artificial turf.
Can I Shovel Snow Off My Artificial Grass?
No, you should not shovel any snow off your turf unless absolutely necessary. If you do have to clear a path on your artificial grass for any reason, try using a handheld leaf blower to remove a light covering of snow. If that won’t suffice, make sure you use a plastic shovel with no metal edging. Consult with your artificial grass installer for more tips, and ensure you don’t use any tools that would void your warranty.
Does Snow Melt Faster on Artificial Grass?
Yes, snow will melt a little faster on artificial lawns in most cases. Because a synthetic lawn is made with inorganic materials, it can hold more heat than natural grass can. This can sometimes result in one to two inches of snow melting faster on fake grass because artificial lawns feature better drainage and aeration.
Should I Cover My Synthetic Lawn in Winter?
There is no need to cover your artificial grass in winter, but if you’re preparing to experience a harsher-than-usual season, you can. Some property owners prefer to cover some areas that won’t be used. Just be sure if you are going to cover any of your synthetic turf that you don’t cover areas that will be used because it can become very slippery.
How Should I Prep My Artificial Grass for Winter and Snow?
Before the first snowfall and freezing temperatures, you should do a solid autumn cleaning to protect your artificial lawn. You should remove organic materials like leaves, twigs, or other debris from your surface and perform complete maintenance. Check out our guide for cleaning artificial grass to learn more.
Other Questions?
Did we miss any questions about artificial lawn maintenance? We want to hear from you! Contact our team of experts today with questions or to get a free consultation.