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No doubt you will have seen on the news that the UK recently suffered another spate of flooding. This weather event highlights the vulnerability of natural grass lawns to extreme conditions. As affected homeowners deal with the challenging aftermath of heavy rains and rising water levels, and others wish to prepare for potential flooding, there is a need for resilient solutions for outdoor spaces.
Installing an artificial lawn will ensure a low-maintenance alternative to natural grass that will not only withstand the difficulties caused by flooding but also offer environmental and practical benefits. It is important to stress, however, that artificial lawns are not suitable for an area or garden which is prone to annual flooding (i.e. a situation when the lawn would remain submerged for several days or weeks).
During a period of flooding, one of the most significant advantages of having an artificial lawn installed is that it will be resilient to water damage. When subjected to large quantities of water, natural grass will become muddy and waterlogged whereas fake grass will drain efficiently. Most artificial lawns have perforated backing designed to allow water to pass through with ease, which prevents puddles or pools of water from forming, and minimises the risk of flooding. This helps to maintain a usable outdoor space during and after heavy rains and reduces the risk of water-related damage to property.
While flooding does pose a significant threat, the UK also faces significant challenges related to water scarcity, particularly in the summer months. A further benefit of artificial lawns is that they contribute to water conservation by eliminating the need for regular watering. Natural grass lawns require substantial irrigation to stay healthy, especially during the dry spells of summer. Artificial turf remains lush and vibrant throughout the hottest and driest season. There simply is not the constant demand for water to maintain its condition, allowing homeowners to contribute to conservation efforts and reduce their environmental impact.
Artificial lawns are very popular due to the appeal of being low maintenance, which is particularly advantageous during periods of very heavy rainfall or in the wake of flooding. After water damage of any kind, it’s a certainty that a natural grass lawn will require an extensive clean-up. There will need to be reseeding and rehabilitation to restore a natural lawn to its pre-flood appearance.
Artificial lawns, however, require minimal upkeep. They don’t need mowing, fertilising or watering, therefore saving property owners a lot of time and money. Being inherently low maintenance also means that artificial lawns are an attractive option for people who want an aesthetically pleasing outdoor space but none of the hassle of constant care.
The weather in the UK can sometimes be spectacularly nice, but in truth it’s often unpredictable, with periods of heavy rainfall and sometimes prolonged droughts. Natural grass finds it difficult to thrive in these diverse conditions, and often succumbs to diseases, pests and the difficulties caused by extreme temperatures.
On the other hand, artificial lawns have been specifically designed and engineered to withstand a variety of weather conditions so are perfectly suited to installation in UK gardens! UV-resistant materials ensure that the fake turf remains vibrant and retains its colour, even under the sun, while (as mentioned earlier) the drainage system prevents waterlogging during heavy rains.
The level of durability offered by an artificial lawn ensures that property owners can enjoy a lush lawn year-round. Traditional grass lawns are often unusable after heavy rainfall – and certainly after flooding. Artificial turf, with its efficient drainage system and mud-free surface, remains accessible and enjoyable throughout the year. Families can relax, socialise and BBQ, children can play, and pets can roam freely without the worry of damaging the lawn.
Although the environmental impact of installing artificial lawns is sometimes a topic of debate, there are definitely eco-benefits. Artificial lawns contribute to water conservation, and the absence of the need for pesticides and fertilisers reduces chemical run-off which promotes healthier ecosystems in surrounding areas. Additionally, the longevity of artificial turf prevents the need for constant replacement.
In the face of increasing weather uncertainties, the benefits of artificial lawns become even more apparent. From the resilience against flooding to the year-round low maintenance, artificial lawns offer a highly practical and environmentally friendly solution for anyone looking to enhance an outdoor space. As the UK adapts to the challenges of a changing climate, artificial lawns stand out as a front-running choice for the future of outdoor landscaping. Once again, though, a reminder that if your garden or outdoor space floods heavily on a regular basis leaving it submerged beneath floodwater then artificial grass is not suitable. Browse our website for further details of the lawns we offer, and feel free to contact us for further information.