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Artificial Turf vs. Sod: Which Is Right for Your Yard?
June 17, 2024

When it’s time to upgrade your lawn, most homeowners find themselves choosing between two options: artificial turf or traditional sod. Both can deliver a fresh, green yard—but they come with very different levels of maintenance, cost, and long-term value.

At Kingswood Turf, we install premium artificial grass for homeowners who want a lush, low-maintenance lawn that lasts. But we also understand that every yard and every homeowner is different.

Here’s a side-by-side breakdown to help you decide whether turf or sod is the better fit for your outdoor space.

1. Installation Process

Sod:

  • Requires existing soil to be leveled and prepared
  • Needs immediate watering and care to root properly
  • May take weeks to establish fully

Artificial Turf:

  • Involves a base layer, compaction, and drainage prep
  • Installed in 1–3 days depending on project size
  • Ready to use immediately after installation

Turf offers faster, more predictable results with no waiting period.

2. Water Usage

Sod:

  • Requires constant watering, especially in summer
  • Subject to drought damage and brown patches

Artificial Turf:

  • Requires no irrigation or sprinklers
  • Saves up to 55,000 gallons of water per year

Turf is a more sustainable, drought-proof choice.

3. Maintenance Needs

Sod:

  • Needs regular mowing, edging, fertilizing, and weed control
  • Susceptible to pests, fungus, and seasonal changes

Artificial Turf:

  • No mowing, watering, or chemicals required
  • Only occasional rinsing and brushing

Turf dramatically reduces upkeep and gives you back your weekends.

4. Durability & Longevity

Sod:

  • Lifespan depends on climate, care, and wear
  • Prone to patching, overgrowth, and damage from pets or kids

Artificial Turf:

  • Lasts 15+ years with proper installation
  • Holds up against pets, foot traffic, heat, and play

Turf stays lush and level year-round—no matter the season.

5. Cost Over Time

Sod:

  • Lower upfront cost
  • Ongoing expenses for water, fertilizer, and maintenance

Artificial Turf:

  • Higher initial investment
  • Pays off through savings on utilities and lawn care

Turf often pays for itself within a few years.

6. Look & Feel

Modern artificial turf is designed to look just like real grass—with:

  • Multi-toned blades
  • Realistic texture
  • Soft, cushioned underfoot feel

Most visitors can’t tell the difference—and it stays perfect with no effort.

So, Which Is Right for You?

Choose sod if:

  • You enjoy lawn maintenance
  • You’re okay with seasonal changes
  • You’re looking for a lower initial cost

Choose artificial turf if:

  • You want a perfect lawn year-round
  • You’re tired of mowing and watering
  • You want a long-term, low-maintenance solution

Kingswood Turf is here to help you say goodbye to brown spots and high water bills. Book your free estimate today and find out why more homeowners are switching to artificial turf for beauty, durability, and freedom from yard work.