At Outdoor Makeover, we believe your outdoor space should support the way you live—beautifully, effortlessly, and year-round. For many Atlanta homeowners, the question of artificial turf vs. natural grass is more than an aesthetic choice—it’s about functionality, maintenance, lifestyle, and long-term value.

Whether you’re designing a new landscape from the ground up or refreshing your existing yard, our team guides you through every detail, helping you choose the best material for your home, your family, and your vision.

Here’s how we compare the benefits of artificial turf and natural grass—so you can make a confident, informed decision for your outdoor transformation.

Design Consistency and Visual Impact

Artificial Turf: Always Green, Always Polished

Artificial turf offers a pristine, uniform look year-round. It stays vibrant in full sun or shade, never gets patchy, and creates a clean, polished aesthetic—especially important in high-profile areas or when outdoor spaces are used for entertaining. Our team installs premium turf that mimics the look and feel of real grass while holding up under pressure.

Natural Grass: Organic Beauty, Seasonal Changes

There’s something timeless about the look, scent, and feel of real grass. When well-maintained, it brings rich color, softness, and a connection to nature. However, natural grass in Atlanta often requires careful attention to survive summer heat, rainfall fluctuations, and heavy foot traffic.

Maintenance and Care Requirements

Artificial Turf: Low Maintenance, High Performance

For busy families or clients who want a set-it-and-forget-it solution, turf is a clear winner. No mowing, watering, fertilizing, or reseeding. Occasional rinsing and brushing is all that’s needed to keep your yard clean and photo-ready. For homeowners who travel often or maintain second properties, artificial turf offers year-round peace of mind.

Natural Grass: Requires Regular Attention

From mowing and edging to irrigation and fertilization, real grass demands ongoing care. It’s a rewarding choice for clients who enjoy traditional lawn maintenance—but without consistent upkeep, results can be uneven, especially in Atlanta’s challenging climate.

Sustainability and Water Usage

Artificial Turf: A Water-Smart Choice

Artificial turf is an eco-conscious option that significantly reduces your water consumption. Especially during Atlanta’s drier months or periods of water restriction, turf stays lush without demanding irrigation. It’s an excellent solution for clients seeking a more sustainable landscape with minimal environmental impact.

Natural Grass: High Water Needs in Hot Climates

A traditional lawn requires a lot of water—particularly during peak summer heat. This increases utility bills and can strain local resources. For clients dedicated to the look and feel of natural grass, we help design efficient irrigation systems to reduce waste and support sustainability.

Durability and Day-to-Day Use

Artificial Turf: Tough Enough for Play and Pets

Artificial turf is exceptionally durable and family-friendly. It’s a great option for play areas, pet zones, and heavily used lawns, holding up to foot traffic, digging, and weather with ease. Plus, it eliminates mud, bare patches, and allergens—creating a safer and cleaner environment for kids and pets alike.

Natural Grass: Softer, But Less Resilient

Natural grass feels soft and cool underfoot, but it can show wear over time—especially in shaded areas, near play equipment, or around high-traffic zones. It also takes time to recover from heavy use or harsh weather.

Comfort and Surface Temperature

Artificial Turf: Warmer, But Smartly Managed

It’s true that turf can get warmer than grass in direct sunlight. However, we use advanced materials with built-in cooling technology and offer design solutions—like shade structures, pergolas, and tree placement—to help regulate surface temperature and keep your yard comfortable all summer long.

Natural Grass: Naturally Cooler

Living grass has a built-in cooling effect, making it pleasant for bare feet and lounging on hot days. For clients who prioritize barefoot comfort, it can be a great option—if they’re also prepared for the care that comes with it.

Investment and Long-Term Value

Artificial Turf: Higher Upfront, Lower Over Time

Installing artificial turf is a larger upfront investment, but it pays off with lower water bills and minimal maintenance over time. Many clients see significant savings in upkeep costs—and value the year-round usability and polished look that turf provides.

Natural Grass: Less to Start, More to Maintain

Sod or seeding is less expensive initially, but requires a lifetime of care. Fertilizers, mowing, weed control, and irrigation costs can add up quickly. If you’re considering grass, our team will help you weigh the ongoing investment against your goals and lifestyle.

When to Choose Each—Or Blend Both

At Outdoor Makeover, we often combine artificial turf and natural grass in the same design—using each material strategically to serve different functions.

Artificial Turf Is Ideal For:

Pet zones and play areas
Pool decks and patios
Courtyards or shaded areas
Vacation homes or second residences
Clients who want ultra-low maintenance

Natural Grass Works Well For:

Large, open lawns for recreation
Gardens where seasonal change is welcome
Homes with built-in irrigation
Clients who enjoy active lawn care

No matter your choice, we make sure your landscape looks beautiful, functions effortlessly, and aligns with the way you live.

Expert Guidance for Atlanta Outdoor Living

Every landscape we design is custom—because every client is unique. Our team takes the time to understand your property, your lifestyle, and your vision for outdoor living. Then we recommend the best materials, layout, and features to bring that vision to life—whether you’re going full turf, keeping it natural, or blending both with style.

Let’s Design the Lawn That Fits Your Life

Choosing between artificial turf and natural grass isn’t about which is better—it’s about what works best for you. Let Outdoor Makeover guide you through the decision with expertise, creativity, and a passion for helping families live better outdoors.

Call us at 404-301-8340
Or visit our Contact Us page to schedule your consultation.

Let’s create a lawn that’s functional, beautiful, and uniquely yours—built to last and ready for life.

The Benefits of Artificial Turf vs. Natural Grass: What Works Best for Your Atlanta Landscape?