Answers to the most common questions from homeowners, businesses and schools across Essex - from installation and maintenance to pets, putting greens and more.
Parking heavy vehicles on artificial grass is not recommended and is not a suitable long-term driveway solution. Driving repeatedly over the synthetic fibres is likely to permanently flatten the pile and alter its direction. Rubber tyres under the weight of a vehicle can also pull and rip the grass fibres, causing lasting damage.
Artificial grass can, however, be a great complement alongside a paved driveway. Take a look at our gallery for inspiration.
Yes - our synthetic grasses can be used indoors in a variety of ways. Businesses often use a roll as an artificial grass carpet at trade shows or to freshen up a bistro or breakout area. You could also use it as an alternative to carpet, a table centrepiece, or as part of a floral display.
Our putting green range is particularly popular indoors, giving you a year-round surface to practise on at home.
Artificial grass handles typical UK cold weather well - it stays green all year round and won't deteriorate with a drop in temperature. In heavy rain it can actually drain more effectively than natural grass, thanks to its stable aggregate base and weed membrane beneath.
In light snow, let it melt naturally or clear it by hand - avoid hard shovels. During a hard frost the blades can stiffen, so try not to force the ice off as this may cause damage. If heavy snow is forecast, a waterproof sheet such as tarpaulin laid over the lawn makes a good precaution.
In-fill grass has a material - usually sand in domestic gardens - added between the blades to help them stand upright and weigh the grass down. This is also common on sports pitches with a longer pile.
Non in-fill grass does not require this top dressing, as a realistic thatch layer, higher stitch rate and securing pins keep the blades in place. Non in-fill is ideal for homes with children and pets as there is no loose material to carry indoors.
Our artificial grass is made from durable plastic polymers - polyethylene and polypropylene, or a combination of both depending on the product. These lightweight materials are highly resistant to damage, which is why our lawns carry a 10-year product guarantee. If you are planning a DIY installation, we recommend having someone assist you as a full roll can be heavy to handle alone.
Artificial grass is made from plastic and will melt under extreme heat, so it is not fireproof. For barbecues, we recommend using a patio or decking area rather than placing them directly on the grass. Gas barbecues can be used nearby as long as the heat source is well above the lawn, but direct contact from charcoal barbecues should be avoided.
The same care applies to bonfires, fireworks and cigarettes. With sensible precautions, there is no reason you cannot enjoy your garden as normal.
With average levels of use and traffic, an artificial grass surface should last around 15 years. Keeping it clear of debris will help maintain its appearance and longevity. Our full range - from luxury replica lawns to putting greens - is professionally installed using quality materials for a durable, safe and welcoming outdoor space for years to come.
We pride ourselves on the quality of our installations across Essex. We use only the best tools and materials, including a stable, free-draining sub-base of 40-60mm Type 1 aggregate topped with a weed membrane.
Unlike many other installers, we always remove all waste from site at the end of the job - leaving you with a clean, tidy garden ready to enjoy straight away. With many years of experience, you are guaranteed a professional result from a trained and knowledgeable Essex team.
Disclaimer: We are NOT associated with the AstroTurf™ brand. Whilst people use the term as a generic description to describe artificial grass, it is a registered trademark and this is the story about how AstroTurf™ was invented.
Fans of fake grass will know how nice and warm it is to the touch in the summer, like having a lovely warm carpet outside that never gets dirty. Even in winter the artificial lawn mantra of 'no more mud' rings true.
What you may not know is how it originated. The first artificial grass was a million miles away from the realistic grass substitute we have in our back gardens today and was called 'AstroTurf'. Along with many other inventions we couldn't live without today like toasters and tea bags, AstroTurf comes from the United States.
AstroTurf was invented in 1965 by employees of the American company Monsanto and patented in 1967 under the name "Chemgrass." It first came to prominence when it was installed in 1965 in the Houston Astrodome. As a result of this debut it was renamed AstroTurf after the 'Astrodome'. The original advantages of AstroTurf over natural grass was that it required little maintenance, was ideal for indoor stadiums and did not require sunlight. For those reasons AstroTurf was used in both indoor and outdoor stadiums across America.
Since then fake grass has evolved from being a rather stiff, unconvincing substitute into a high quality and realistic alternative to a grass lawn. The enormous improvement in quality, especially over the last ten years, has led to its growing popularity as people weigh up the benefits of no mowing, no watering and no mud with its high maintenance counterpart, grass.
No - our artificial grass is UV stabilised during the manufacturing process to prevent fading. All our products come with a 10-year no-fade guarantee, and given the UK climate you can expect the colour to stay vibrant for even longer.
Yes - you can hoover artificial grass to collect leaves and plant debris. Choose a dry day for best results as wet material can get messy. A stiff brush works equally well for sweeping up surface litter. Any natural debris collected can be composted or added to a wildlife area if you have one.
Artificial grass requires very little maintenance compared to natural grass - no mowing, watering or feeding. We do recommend an occasional brush with a stiff broom to keep the pile upright and remove any surface debris. If you have pets, regular rinsing of the affected areas will help keep the lawn fresh and odour-free.
Remove solid waste as you would from a natural lawn, then rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. For persistent odours, a diluted pet-safe cleaner can be applied. Our grass products are designed with effective drainage so liquid waste passes through quickly, keeping the surface clean and fresh. See our Dogs & Pets FAQ section below for more detail on pet-specific care.
Weeds cannot grow up through the artificial grass itself, as a weed membrane is installed beneath the surface during installation. However, airborne seeds can occasionally settle on top of the grass and germinate in accumulated surface debris. Regular brushing and clearing will prevent this from becoming an issue.
Yes - all our artificial grass products come with a 10-year guarantee covering both the product and UV fade resistance. Please contact our team for full details of the guarantee terms.
In many cases accidental damage - such as a small burn or cut - can be repaired without replacing the entire lawn. We can assess the damage and advise on the best course of action. In some situations a patch repair is straightforward and cost-effective. Contact our team and we will be happy to help.
Yes - if you are planning a DIY installation we can supply the sub-base materials you need alongside the grass. Get in touch with our team for details and pricing.
Our artificial grass is available in standard roll widths (2m or 4m, with a typical length of up to 25m) to suit most garden sizes. Please contact us directly for current availability and to discuss the best option for your project.
Yes - you can order directly from us whether you want a full supply and installation service or just the grass on a supply-only basis. Get in touch with our Essex team to discuss your requirements and receive a quote.
Yes - artificial grass is an excellent choice for pet owners. It is durable, easy to clean and eliminates the muddy patches and worn areas that pets often create on natural lawns. Our grass products are non-toxic and safe for animals.
When installing artificial grass in a home with pets, we pay particular attention to drainage and odour management. A well-prepared sub-base with effective drainage ensures liquid waste passes through quickly. We can also advise on zeolite infill, which helps neutralise pet odours. Contact us to discuss the best solution for your garden and pets.
Artificial grass is much more resistant to digging than natural turf, and the firm sub-base beneath makes it harder for even determined diggers to get through. Most dogs are quickly deterred. We can also advise on securing the edges during installation to further reduce the risk.
Remove solid waste as you would from a natural lawn, then rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. For persistent odours, a diluted pet-safe cleaner can be applied. Our grass products are designed with effective drainage so liquid waste passes through quickly, keeping the surface clean and fresh.
We recommend our Essex Pooch Plus range, specifically designed with pet owners in mind. It features excellent drainage, a robust construction and compatibility with zeolite infill for odour control. Request a free sample to see and feel the quality for yourself.
No - unlike natural grass which can develop yellow or brown patches from pet urine, artificial grass does not discolour. Liquid drains away through the surface and the colour remains consistent throughout.
Yes - artificial grass is a great surface for dogs. It stays clean, mud-free and consistent all year round. There are no pesticides or fertilisers, and our grass products are non-toxic and completely safe for dogs to play and rest on.
Zeolite is a natural mineral used as an infill in artificial grass to absorb and neutralise ammonia from pet urine, significantly reducing odours. It is a popular and effective addition in homes with dogs or cats.
No - zeolite granules are fine and sit within the pile of the grass, making them virtually invisible once spread correctly.
Zeolite works best with grasses that have an infill system. Our team can advise which products in our range are compatible and the correct quantities to use for your lawn size.
Zeolite can be reactivated simply by rinsing with water, which flushes out the absorbed ammonia and refreshes its odour-absorbing properties. This makes it a low-effort, effective solution for pet owners.
No - zeolite does not impede drainage. It allows liquid to pass through freely while absorbing the odour-causing ammonia compounds from pet urine.
Zeolite can be reactivated by rinsing, but over time it may need topping up. How frequently will depend on usage and the number of pets you have. Our team can advise on the right maintenance schedule for your lawn.
As a general guide, approximately 1-2kg per square metre is recommended. Contact us for a precise recommendation based on your specific lawn area and the number of pets.
Yes - zeolite is a natural mineral and is safe for children. It is non-toxic and non-irritating, making it a completely worry-free addition to a family garden with both children and pets.
Weeds are unlikely to grow in zeolite infill. The weed membrane installed beneath the grass prevents root growth from below, and regular brushing to clear surface debris will prevent any airborne seeds from settling and germinating on top.
A clean, attractive garden that looks great all year round naturally encourages the whole family to spend more time outside. Artificial grass removes the barriers of mud, maintenance and an unkempt lawn, making your outdoor space somewhere everyone wants to be - whatever the season.
Not at all. Many of our customers are busy homeowners, families with young children, professionals and older residents who want a beautiful garden without spending every weekend maintaining it. Choosing artificial grass is a practical decision that frees up your time to enjoy your outdoor space rather than working on it.
Yes - garden furniture can be placed on artificial grass without any problem. Lighter furniture can be moved around freely without leaving permanent marks. For heavier items left in one position over a long period, occasional repositioning will help maintain the pile in those areas.
Yes - artificial grass works well indoors for a range of applications including floor coverings, display backdrops, play areas and indoor putting greens. It is easy to cut to size and simple to keep clean.
Artificial grass can act as a deterrent to badgers as it removes the soft soil they would normally dig into. However, very determined badgers may still attempt to dig around the edges. Securing the perimeter properly during installation significantly reduces this risk.
Yes - you can combine artificial grass with planted borders, raised beds, log piles and other natural features to create a wildlife-friendly garden. Many of our customers across Essex use artificial grass for the main lawn area while keeping natural planting zones to support bees, birds and other garden visitors.
Like any manufactured product, artificial grass has an environmental footprint. However, it also offers significant environmental benefits: no watering, no fertilisers, no pesticides and no fuel-powered mowing. Over its 15+ year lifespan, these savings can be considerable. We are always happy to discuss the environmental considerations with customers who want to make a fully informed decision.
Natural lawns need regular watering during dry spells to stay green. Artificial grass needs no watering at all - rainfall is sufficient to keep it clean and fresh. Over the course of a year this can represent a significant saving in household water usage.
Yes - installing artificial grass with a proper sub-base and weed membrane effectively removes the soft soil environment that moles need to tunnel through. Once installed, moles cannot disrupt the lawn surface.
Yes - artificial grass can be laid on concrete provided the surface is clean and in good condition, and adequate drainage is considered. Laying on concrete is a popular choice for patios, balconies and commercial spaces. Contact us to discuss the best method for your area.
Please contact our team directly to discuss the payment options available for your project.
Yes, we offer a full range of landscaping services, including patios, fencing and walling. For more information, please visit our sister company's website. Herringbone Driveways was established in 1996, and our team brings over 30 years of experience in the construction industry.
We do not recommend laying artificial grass directly onto existing turf. The natural grass and soil beneath will continue to decompose, causing an uneven surface over time. Proper ground preparation - including removal of the existing lawn and installation of a stable sub-base - is essential for a long-lasting result.
In some cases it is possible to extend an existing artificial grass area, provided a matching product is available and the join can be made neatly. Contact us with details of your existing grass and we will advise on the best approach.
Yes - artificial grass can be laid onto decking provided it is structurally sound and in good condition. Drainage is considered as part of the installation. It is a great way to transform tired or ageing decking into an attractive, low-maintenance surface.
Artificial grass can be installed at any time of year across Essex. Ground conditions in summer are generally more favourable, but our team regularly installs throughout autumn and winter with excellent results. The key requirement is that the ground is not frozen or heavily waterlogged at the time of installation.
Yes - our full installation service includes the removal and disposal of your existing lawn. All waste is taken away by our team so you are left with a clean, tidy garden from day one.
Yes - artificial grass can be laid onto paving as long as the surface is stable, level and clean. Drainage holes or gaps between slabs should be maintained so water can escape effectively.
You can walk on your artificial grass almost immediately after installation. We recommend leaving it to settle for a short period before any heavy use, and our team will advise you on this at the end of the installation.
Yes - we install artificial grass throughout the winter months across Essex. As long as the ground is not frozen or heavily waterlogged, installation can proceed as normal. Many customers choose winter specifically so their new lawn is ready to enjoy as soon as spring arrives.
Our artificial grass has a perforated backing that allows water to drain through freely. Beneath the grass, a layer of aggregate sub-base provides further drainage, ensuring water disperses quickly and the surface does not become waterlogged.
We use a stable, free-draining sub-base of 40-60mm Type 1 aggregate, topped with a weed membrane. This provides a firm, level and long-lasting foundation for the artificial grass.
Artificial grass can be installed onto most surfaces including soil, concrete, paving, decking and compacted aggregate. The preparation method varies depending on the base. Our team will assess your area and advise the best approach during your free site visit.
Our installation process begins with a free site visit and quote. We then prepare the ground by removing the existing lawn, excavating to the correct depth and laying a stable sub-base of Type 1 aggregate. A weed membrane is installed before the artificial grass is carefully fitted, trimmed and secured. Finally, all waste is removed from site, leaving you with a pristine lawn ready to enjoy. See our installation page for more detail.
Our artificial grass products are suitable for gardens, patios, balconies, driveways (decorative use), commercial premises, schools, nurseries, sports areas and putting greens - both indoors and outdoors across Essex.
Fake Grass Essex is a Trulawn partner, meaning we are an approved and trained installer of Trulawn's premium artificial grass range. This partnership ensures you receive a product and installation that meets Trulawn's quality standards, backed by their product guarantee.
Yes - artificial grass is an excellent choice for schools across Essex. It provides a clean, safe and durable surface that withstands heavy use from pupils all year round, with no mud, no maintenance downtime and a consistent surface in all weather conditions.
Yes - artificial grass is well suited to nursery environments. It is non-toxic, soft underfoot, easy to clean and free from the mud and allergens associated with natural grass - making it a practical and safe choice for young children.
Yes - we supply and install artificial grass products suitable for a range of school sports activities. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements and we will recommend the most appropriate product for your needs.
Yes - artificial grass is frequently used on playgrounds and is an ideal surface for play areas. It is durable, weatherproof and can be installed with shock-absorbing underlay to meet safety requirements for playground equipment.
Yes - we can supply and install artificial grass with appropriate shock-pad underlays to meet critical fall height requirements for playground equipment. Contact us with your project details and we will advise on the correct specification.
Please contact our team to discuss risk assessment requirements for your project. We work with schools and educational establishments across Essex and can advise on the appropriate process for your installation.
Yes - artificial grass is a great choice for families with children. It is non-toxic, free from pesticides and fertilisers, soft underfoot and easy to keep clean. No more muddy boots, patchy lawns or grass stains - just a safe, attractive space for children to play in all year round.
Many football clubs at grassroots and amateur level use high-quality artificial grass pitches, which offer consistent playing conditions all year round without the maintenance challenges of natural turf. At professional level, natural grass remains the standard for top-flight competition, though artificial pitches are widely used for training facilities.
Yes - we can include cups and flags as part of your putting green installation. These are fitted during the installation process to ensure everything is properly secured and correctly aligned.
The cost of a putting green depends on the size, shape and complexity of the design. Contact us for a free quote and we will provide a detailed, no-obligation price based on your specific requirements.
Putting greens require minimal maintenance. Regular brushing keeps the surface clean and the pile consistent. Occasional rinsing removes surface dirt. Keep the green free of debris for the best playing experience all year round.
With proper care, an artificial grass putting green can last well in excess of 10 years. The exact lifespan will depend on the level of use and how well the surface is maintained.
Installation time varies depending on the size and complexity of the design. A typical residential putting green can usually be completed in one to two days. The process involves ground preparation, laying the sub-base, fitting the specialist putting green grass, and installing the cups and flags.
Our putting green products are designed to closely replicate the pace and feel of a natural grass green. While no artificial surface is identical to a pristine natural green, our products deliver an excellent and consistent putting experience all year round - unaffected by weather or seasonal changes.
Our Essex team is happy to answer any questions not covered above and provide a free, no-obligation quote for your garden or commercial space.
