How Long Does Artificial Turf Last? Read Beyond the Warranty

What the published estimates say

The estimates disagree because use matters so much. A front lawn that is mostly looked at will outlast a dog run or a play area that gets used every day.

What a warranty covers, and what it does not

Manufacturer warranties commonly run from 8 to 15 years, and most are prorated, meaning the coverage shrinks as the turf ages. One manufacturer's 15-year warranty, for example, covers 100 percent in years 1 to 8, 50 percent in years 9 to 12 and 25 percent in years 13 to 15.

• Usually covered: fading and breakdown of the fibers from sunlight.
• Usually not covered: matting, normal wear, installation problems, and melting from sunlight reflected off windows.

A warranty length is not the same as an expected life. Ask for the written warranty for the exact turf line in your quote, and ask what the installer covers on the installation itself.

Ask us for both when we quote your yard.

What shortens turf life

• Heavy daily traffic in the same spots
• Pet areas that are not rinsed
• Sunlight reflected off energy-efficient windows onto the turf
• A base that settles or holds water

Upkeep that keeps it looking right

• Clear leaves and debris so they do not break down in the turf.
• Rinse it now and then, especially when there has been no rain.
• Brush high-traffic areas to stand the blades back up.
• For pets, pick up solids promptly, rinse, and use an enzyme cleaner regularly. See pet turf.
• Avoid harsh chemicals.