Second-Hand Grass

Updated/Fact-Chacked on September 9, 2020 by Mary

If you’re looking to install turf, why not make an environmentally-conscious decision that’s a lot more affordable and get yourself a previously used one?

Artificial turf is a surface manufactured using synthetic fibres to look like natural grass. Most of the time, it’s used in arenas designed for sports, but it also has been gaining popularity with residential lawns and commercial purposes.

Second-hand grass is a great choice as it withstands heavy-duty use and doesn’t require trimming or irrigation. It’s especially practical for partially-covered areas like domed stadiums as these don’t provide enough sunlight for natural grass to grow and remain healthy.

Artificial grass can be used in a variety of places like schools, municipalities, small clubs, backyards, paintball terrains, Crossfit, indoor sports, pool areas, and parks. Not only that, but you can even use it for RC terrains, full-size football pitches, camping and caravanning, dog shelters, temporary use for events and festivals, and also golf terrains.

If you’re opting for artificial grass, why not use pieces that have already been used in order to spare the environment the burdens of producing artificial turf? Especially that it meets all the health requirements, and if you get it from a trustworthy source, it wouldn’t have lost any of its quality with the rolling and transportation.

FIFA (International Football Association) has prepared clear guidelines on recycling artificial turf. According to them, there are four alternatives that you can resort to when it comes to dealing with artificial turf, and these include: repurposing and reinstalling it on football fields, recycling of its materials, using it as waste fuel, or getting rid of it in landfills.

If you consider the impact that each of these alternatives has on the environment, you’d understand why getting second-hand grass is your best bet. It’s a win-win situation; you preserve the environment while not breaking the bank when installing artificial grass.

Ensuring the Quality of Second-Hand Grass

Of course, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when considering second-hand grass. Firstly, you have to consider the quality of the turf that you’re getting for the price you’re going to be paying. This is because used turf typically comes from sports fields that no longer deem it useful. This is why they rip it out and sell it for a price that seems like a bargain for any consumer.

However, since you’re getting something that’s been used for at least ten years, it’s very likely that it might contain lead. This is why, for your safety, you should make sure it’s led-tested and ask to see the results for that test.

Also, it might include crumb rubber infills, so make sure that the company you’re buying from has cleaned their product if you’re concerned about this.

If you have these two things covered, you’re ready to get your next second-hand grass installed!

Conclusion

Second-hand grass is perfect for any consumer. It’s a great choice in terms of durability, longevity, and maintenance. Just make sure it’s led-tested, and you should be good to go!

Mary

Mary shares a passion for gardening with her husband John, though she is more focused on growing veg on their allotment at St. Margaret’s Allotments, Durham. Mary also works in the lawn care industry and manages the lawns for the Durham University campus.