Link: http://www.jacksturf.com

A few years ago, the thought of artificial turf was out of the question for many families. Artificial turf definitely had a bad rap. Complaints of poor quality, low durability and high maintenance turned many consumers away. However, over the past few years, turf has begun to make a predominant appearance in the landscaping world.

Turf production has improved in numerous ways over the past few years. The standard of quality has been raised to a high degree, creating an increase in the products durability. New threading patterns for the turf and better quality materials have made 'it resistant to tearing and flooding. It is able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday play (human and pet alike). It also has been made with increased irrigation, eliminating the homeowners worry of flooding. After rain fall the turf is able to absorb the water right back into the ground, the excess becomes clean runoff water. Turf has also hade a beauty makeover. It now looks identical to grass. You are even able to choose the shade of green you want and the blade size. Maintaining your turf is as easy as hosing it off every now and then to keep it clean. There's never been a better time to make the change!

Link: http://www.californiawaterscapes.com

Old ponds used to be made with a flat liner bottom. Sometimes the liners would be covered with algae, but mostly they were just left exposed. Not only did it look unnatural, but it also didn’t do anything more than strictly serve as a liner for the pond. You might ask yourself, well shouldn’t the purpose of the pond liner be to line the pond? Well, yes. However, why settle with just a liner when you can get more?

This is what inspired California Waterscapes to look for a better alternative to the plain old pond liner. California Waterscapes is taking rock bottom to a positive level. They use rock and gravel on the bottom of their ponds. Beyond giving the pond a much more aesthetically pleasing and natural look, it is also very beneficial to the pond. First off, it helps the filtration by giving bacteria a large surface area to colonize on it. The bacteria breaks down the fish waste and the other debris that falls to the bottom of the pond. It also works as a layer of “armor” for the pond liner. When the pond liner is exposed, it is susceptible to damage from sun exposure. Over time the UV rays break down the liner, causing tears and leaks. The rocks also help hold the liner and underwater plants in place. When the liner is laid with nothing on top, it's much easier for the liner to shift and plants to tip. With the bottom of the pond doing all this work, pond maintenance is becoming easier by the day.

Link: http://www.jacksturf.com

We have talked in the past about the environmental benefits of turf (mainly in regards to water) but there are also personal health benefits that turf provides! Ever been injured playing on a grass field? Ever scrapped your knee on a rock or slid across a wet patch of grass?? These are common problems with regular grass that can cause minor to significant injuries. From a minor cut to a blown out knee, the hazards of a natural grass play area have encouraged many to make the switch to turf.

Areas with turf eliminate the risk of falling on hard dirt spots or rocks. Turf offers athletes a more cushioned and resilient surface with better traction. These three factors combined help to reduce the risk of serious injury. The cushioned surface is much easier on the body as it does not put as much pressure on your joints. The turf is able to act as a shock absorber because the area beneath it is softer (unlike grass which just offers hard earth). It also offers a softer landing if you were to fall or be tackled, even reducing the risk of a concussion as it is softer on your head. The more resilient surface with better traction helps prevent slipping and twisting of ankles or knees. Wet mud spots in grass (especially when not wearing cleats) can cause severely twisted ankles and knees. With turf, there is no slippery mud underneath. Better traction allows quicker, more decisive maneuvers without the worry of falling.

There is no denying that the recent advancements in technique, aesthetics and quality of turf have made it a more beneficial investment than regular grass. Turf benefits your health, your wallet and your water. Regardless of what your main reason for installing turf is today, you will continue to find the endless benefits that turf has to offer you, your family and your animals.