Proper edging can make or break your artificial turf project. No matter where the artificial turf is laid, it is essential to ensure that the edging work is done properly. Failing to edge your synthetic grass project has negative consequences beyond aesthetics; it actively shortens the lifespan of the turf.
Synthetic turf edging refers to creating a specific perimeter for the artificial turf solution that you use. When the turf is laid out properly, it will make the space look better and more appealing for general use. Additionally, artificial turf raises the value of the area where it is laid down, no matter what kind of space that is. Keep that in mind when paying for your artificial grass edging solution.
Professional turf installers almost always recommend edging as part of your installation process, even if the edging is as simple as tucking the artificial turf under pre-existing material like concrete or paving stones.
But why edge synthetic grass in the first place?
Why Install a Turf Edging System?
A major reason to install a turf edging system is to secure the base materials that go under the grass. This reduces instances of potential turf shifting or seams showing. When turf shifts on the base, it looks sloppy and is more susceptible to damage.
A few additional advantages to using a turf edging system includes the following:
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Helps Block Weeds - No one likes to deal with nasty and invasive weeds. A turf edging system can block weeds that would otherwise poke out at the edges of the turf.
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Soil Erosion Prevention - Keeping soil from shifting is paramount to having a nice synthetic grass installation. A turf edging system can help protect the soil from experiencing excessive erosion, which can also lead to turf shifting.
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Less Maintenance - Once the turf edging system is established, you will find that it requires less maintenance than artificial turf projects with no or bad edging.
All of that said, the ability to get the most value and most life out of your turf edging depends on the materials you opt to use.
Steel Edging for Artificial Grass
If you want an edging system that can provide them with the most longevity, you might want to go with steel edging. This system can withstand virtually anything that Mother Nature throws at it. However, while steel edging has increased in popularity, the price tag of this type of system is a deterrent for some. Steel shortages in the US and other countries have caused the price of steel to increase in recent years. Therefore, you should anticipate paying more for steel edging systems than you might for other options.
Pressure-Treated Timber Edging
Treat yourself to the most natural looking edging system available. That is what you get with a pressure-treated timber edging system. You might also know of it by the name "pressure-treated sleeper system".
The upside to going with this type of edging system is that it blends naturally into yards and other green areas. However, the material that you are working with here is not necessarily as resilient as some other options. Although the pressure treatment makes the timber more resistant to the weather than it otherwise would be, timber edging will eventually rot and lose its value.
Composite Plastic Edging
Plastic is a popular edging system choice for many consumers. Plastic edging is easy to install and you can select from a variety of colors for the plastics that you use. For a more natural look, composite plastic edging can be made to look like wood.
Plastic edging is more affordable than some other choices. In addition, it lasts longer than timber while providing similar aesthetic appeal.
Paving Stone for Synthetic Turf Edging
Paving stone is a fun, professional-looking option to consider as well. It allows you to create the turf edging that you require while also forming a design using paving stones as well. The use of paving stones also makes it easier to create a clearly designed walking path for guests to use. It can also add to an "enchanted" feeling to the atmosphere of the place.
The downsides to using paving stones for synthetic turf edging is the time and energy spent laying each individual stone. You may also need to replace individual stones over time if they become damaged.
Concrete Curbing for Edging
People who want to create one of the sharpest turf edging systems can use concrete curbing. This lacks some of the design intrigue that other options on this list contain, but it does allow for concrete curbing to surround the artificial lawn. If you are interested in creating a clear pathway for people to walk on throughout your yard, then you should consider concrete curbing.
Something to keep in mind is that some people look at concrete curbing as a less creative way of tackling this issue. You might lose some points in the originality category, but this edging option remains popular.
What's the Best Artificial Turf Edging System?
The best artificial turf edging system is composite plastic. It combines the aesthetics of pressure-treated timber with the longevity of steel.
If the idea of plastic doesn’t appeal to you, the top recommendations are:
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Steel - The best choice if you want an edging system that can withstand almost anything. It is weather-resistant and will stand the test of time. If you choose this option, make sure your budget is prepared for the additional expense it requires.
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Timber - A natural-looking option that is very pleasing to the eye. Timber is average as far as cost is concerned, but it may also experience issues with rot and other wear and tear. Remember that if you choose this one.
Also, there are cases where a “turf edging system” is as simple as adding an extra step to the installation process. When a natural border is already present, all that is needed for edging are some 40-D five-inch, non-galvanized nails and a putty knife.
If you aren't certain about which type of turf edging system is right for your yard, you should ask a professional artificial grass installer.
But how can you tell a good installation company from a bad one?
That’s where our eBook “An Expert’s Guide to Comparing Artificial Grass Installers” comes into play. This eBook contains all of the details that you need to select the best installer for your turf edging system.
