How to Choose the Best Artificial Grass for Your Balcony
Dreaming of upgrading your plain looking balcony into a modern lush green oasis with the best artificial grass for your balcony There are many reasons due to which one could consider installing best artificial grass for your balcony. Whether you want a cozy relaxation spot where you can chill after a busy day, an area where your pet can unleash their playful energy, or just to add some greenery in your urban life, artificial grass can be a great choice! But artificial grass comes in many types, making it tough to decide on the right type of artificial grass that would meet your demands. Don’t worry! As in this article we would guide you everything which would help you decide on the best artificial grass for your balcony.
Why Best Artificial Grass for Your Balcony?
Here are some of the benefits you might not be familiar with that come with installing artificial grass in your balconies. Before we head any further, let’s discuss them.
Low Maintenance
No need to mow, water the grass, or weed! Artificial grass is perfect for those who don’t like the daily hustle of maintaining their natural greenery. With artificial turf, there’s no need to worry about maintaining your grass daily.
Aesthetic Appeal
Artificial turf looks fresh all year round and that too with minimal maintenance. You get to experience a lush balcony, no matter the season.
Durability
Artificial grass can resist the hardest of weather conditions and have foot traffic.
Pet-Friendly
Artificial grass is best for you if you are a pet owner. Artificial turf provides a clean, safe, and fun space for your pets to play on.
Eco-Friendly
Artificial grass is great because you don’t have to worry about using fertilizers, pesticides, or using too much water. Some types are even made from recycled materials.
Measure Your Balcony Space To Install Best Artificial Grass for Your Balcony
The first step that comes in is to measure your balcony, before doing anything else. Figuring out how much artificial grass you would be needing is crucial.
Measure the Length and Width
Pick up a measuring tape and start by measuring the length and width of your space.
Allow Extra for Trimming
Make sure to measure any unusual shapes or corners in your balcony. It’s also a great idea to buy some extra grass so you can easily trim it to fit it neatly with the edges, columns, or any other irregular shapes.
Having the accurate measurements in hand would make the installation process much quicker and easier, as well as saving you time and frustration in the long term.
Consider Pile Height
When it comes the artificial grass, the pile height refers to the length of the blades of the artificial grass. This is a vital factor to keep in mind when selecting the right type of artificial grass for your balcony.
Short Pile (10mm – 20mm)
Short pile is perfect for busy areas where you would see a lot of people walking on it. The short pile height helps the place look clean and tidy, giving off a well-kept appearance. And the best thing is that it’s easy to clean!
Medium Pile (20mm – 30mm)
This carpet strikes a good balance between being soft and durable. It’s perfect for relaxing or areas with light foot traffic.
Long Pile (30mm – 40mm)
For a luxurious and more natural look, consider choosing the long pile. Ideal for people who want to prioritize comfort and are ready to maintain their artificial turf more often, as it’s vital to keep it looking fresh and green.
If you ask us, we recommend going for medium pile height for your balconies, which would be around 20mm to 30mm. It offers a great blend of comfort and practicality, while not compromising on anything.
Check the Material Quality
Not all artificial grass is created equal. The material used to prepare artificial turf can make a big difference in how the grass feels, looks, and holds up over time.
Polypropylene
This the best and most affordable option if you are on a tight budget, however, due to being cheap, artificial grass made from polypropylene can easily wear out. Making it a good option for decorative purposes but not the best for high-traffic areas.
Polyethylene
Artificial turf made from this material is more resistant, soft, durable, and more resistant to wear and tear. Polyethylene grass looks close to natural and feels great underfoot, making it a popular choice for balconies.
Nylon
This type of material is incredibly long-lasting and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it perfect for areas with a lot of people walking on it. It’s also quite pricey, but worth the investment because it can handle all kinds of weather conditions without losing its quality.
For balconies, polyethylene is often the best choice. It strikes a good balance between price, durability, and a natural look.
Choose the Right Backing
The support layer or the grass backing the terms which refers to how well a turf can drain of water from it as well as maintaining durability.
Latex Backing
The latex backing is the type of support layer, which is flexible and drains well, but with time and usage, it’s more prone to wear and tear.
Polyurethane Backing
On the other hand, the polyurethane backing is more durable and can handle moisture better, so it’s great for outdoor areas.
If you have a balcony, especially in a place with lots of rain or snow, it’s best to go with polyurethane backing because it drains well and lasts a long time.
Look for UV Protection
Your grass would be exposed 24/7 to the sunlight, which increases the chances of it fading or deteriorating overtime due to constant exposure to UV light. Therefore, you might need the type of artificial grass which would be resistant to UV light.
UV-Stabilized Grass
Your only option would be to go for UV-Stabilized Grass, which can withstand years of exposure to constant sunlight without any frequent signs of fading or deterioration. This would also help you assure that your balcony remains lush and green.
When shopping for artificial grass, be sure to choose a product that specifically mentions UV protection in its description. This feature will help protect your investment and keep your balcony looking great for years to come.
Consider Drainage Needs
Good drainage should be a priority on your list, especially when your balcony is exposed to rain or if you plan on using it as a pet area. Poor drainage can lead to puddling, odors, and mold growth.
Perforated Backing
Allows flow of water through the grass out of your balcony, keeping it dry and mold-free.
Integrated Drainage Systems
Some high-end artificial grass options come with built-in drainage systems for maximum efficiency.
If you live in a rainy area or plan to have pets on your balcony, opt for grass with excellent drainage capabilities.
Feel the Grass Underfoot
Comfort is one of the very first things that comes to mind when it comes to buying artificial grass. Whether you’re planning to walk, sit, or lay on it, the texture and feel of the grass are key factors to consider.
Soft and Plush
If you prefer a soft and plush feel, there are options available that are perfect for lounging or walking barefoot. Keep in mind that these may be a bit more expensive, but the added comfort is worth it.
Firm and Durable
While if your artificial turf is in a place where there’s a heavy foot traffic on daily bases, it’s best to go for the firm and durable type. You might be compromising on the comfortability, but you would be ensuring that your grass remains standing strong.
I highly recommend visiting a store or ordering samples so that you can physically feel the grass before planning. This hands-on approach will ensure that you know exactly what you’re getting and make the best choice for your balcony.
Think About Color and Appearance
With advancements in technology, artificial grass is starting to come in a variety of green shades. It’s understandable as not all artificial grass owners are looking for a grass that looks just like the natural one. While some with lighter shades of green look less natural than the more greener ones, color option is ultimately an important category when it comes to selecting the best type of artificial turf for your balcony.
Two-Tone Grass
This type of turf comes with different shades of green and brown, giving a more natural and realistic appearance.
Single-Tone Grass
Typically, this type of artificial turf is bright in color. It may look clean but would not perfectly mimic real grass.
If you want your balcony to have a realistic vibe, consider choosing two-tone grass with subtle brown or beige thatch to mimic the appearance of real grass.
Installation Tips on Best Artificial Grass for Your Balcony
After you’ve chosen the ideal synthetic turf for your balcony, the next step is to consider how it will be installed. You have the option to hire a professional to do the installation or you can take on a do-it-yourself approach. If going for the DIY approach, it is better to learn on how to do so before starting the process. If you want to know more on installing artificial grass, read this link.
DIY Installation
- Clean the Surface: Clean the surface of any debris or dust from your balcony floor.
- Install an Underlay: If your balcony has uneven surfaces, install an underlay first as it can provide cushioning and even out the surface.
- Lay the Grass: Then start by laying out the artificial grass on your balcony in such a way that the edges align with the perimeters of your balcony.
- Cut to Size: Grab a utility knife and carefully trim the grass to fit neatly around any corners, columns, or other things on your balcony. Use adhesive glue to keep grass to its place. This will prevent it from getting wrinkled or out of position.
- Bruss the Grass: Once finished, brush the grass with a broom to position the blades in an up-right position to give it a natural look.
Hiring a Professional
If you’re feeling unsure about your do-it-yourself abilities or simply want to guarantee a flawless result, consider hiring a professional installer. Many suppliers of artificial grass provide installation services, and they will make sure that everything is completed to the highest standard, saving you time and stress.
Maintenance Tips for Your Balcony Grass
Artificial grass is great as it requires less attention compared to natural grass. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you don’t need to overlook your artificial turf. There are some certain steps needed to be done occasionally to make sure your turf looks best.
- Give it a Brush: Every now and then, use a brush or a broom to fluff up the grass and get rid of any dirt and debris.
- Sprinkle it: Sprinkle some water on your artificial turf to easily clean it up. This is especially helpful after a storm or if you have pets.
- Clean up after pets: Chances are your pets have done their business on your grass, if so, then simply pick up the solid waste promptly and hose down that spot to prevent any lingering odors.
- Check for Wear and Tear: After every few months, inspect your artificial grass for any signs of wear, like areas where the grass is flattened or any loose edges. Addressing these issues would extend the life of your grass.
Picking out the best suitable artificial grass for your balcony doesn’t need to be exhausting and difficult. With a streamline process, and clear understanding on what you want, installing artificial grass can be as easy as ever. When you consider things like the height of the grass, the material it’s made of, how well it drains, and its durability, you are making a smart choice that will make your outdoor space look great and attractive for a long time. Whether you want a low-maintenance grass, or something that your pets could enjoy on, there’s no better way to add some greenery in your life than installing artificial grass for your balcony.