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Artificial Turf vs. Sod: Which Is Best for Your Lawn?
January 8, 2024

When designing a beautiful and low-maintenance lawn, one big decision many homeowners face is choosing between artificial turf and sod. Both have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how you plan to use your outdoor space.

At Unlimited Landscaping, we install both sod and artificial turf and help clients pick the solution that fits their home’s needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences, pros, and considerations to help you make the right choice.

What Is Sod?

Sod is natural grass that has already been grown and cut into rolls for easy installation. It offers an instant green lawn with a traditional look and feel.

✅ Pros of Sod:

  • Instant results – Your lawn looks complete right after installation.
  • Natural cooling – Real grass keeps your yard cooler during summer.
  • Eco-friendly – Sod absorbs carbon dioxide and supports local biodiversity.

❌ Cons of Sod:

  • Requires regular watering and mowing
  • Susceptible to weeds, pests, and disease
  • Needs time to fully root and establish

What Is Artificial Turf?

Artificial turf is synthetic grass made to look and feel like natural grass. It’s ideal for low-maintenance lawns, pet areas, and high-traffic zones.

✅ Pros of Artificial Turf:

  • No watering or mowing
  • Stays green year-round
  • Great for allergies and pet owners
  • Durable and long-lasting (10–15 years or more)

❌ Cons of Artificial Turf:

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Can get hot under direct sun
  • Doesn’t offer the same natural feel as grass

Which Is Better for Your Home?

Choose Sod if:

  • You prefer a natural lawn
  • You don’t mind routine maintenance
  • You want a cooler lawn surface in the summer

Choose Artificial Turf if:

  • You want a low-maintenance lawn
  • You’re tired of dealing with brown spots, weeds, or mud
  • You need a durable lawn for kids or pets

Many homeowners even mix both! For example, natural sod in the front yard and artificial turf in pet areas or side yards. At Unlimited Landscaping, we can help you create a custom plan.

Turf and Sod Installation Tips

Whether you go with sod installation or artificial turf, here are a few expert tips:

  • Prep your soil properly: Grading and drainage are essential to long-term success.
  • Work with professionals: Quality installation prevents problems like uneven settling or poor drainage.
  • Consider irrigation: Even artificial turf areas may benefit from rinsing systems to keep them clean.

Why Choose Unlimited Landscaping?

Our team has years of experience with both artificial turf installation and sod installation. We help you weigh the pros and cons and deliver high-quality results that last. From small residential lawns to large commercial spaces, we handle it all with expert care.

Both artificial turf and sod have their place in a beautiful, functional landscape. Whether you want the look and feel of natural grass or the convenience of a low-maintenance lawn, Unlimited Landscaping can help you find the best fit for your home.

Need help deciding between sod and artificial turf?
Get in touch with Unlimited Landscaping today for a free consultation—we’ll help you create a lawn that fits your lifestyle and looks amazing year-round.