Let’s review artificial turf & artificial grass installations in San Diego, based on data provided by the US Census data, and including estimates based on data from our trusted turf-installation partners.
Artificial Turf in San Diego – 2013
In 2013, there were an estimated 11,000 San Diego homeowners with artificial turf / artificial grass lawns.
To simplify the number further, imagine a group of 100 homes. In 2013, only a single home out of the 100 would have artificial turf, and the remaining 99 homes would have other types of lawns. The lawn-upgrade options for homeowners in 2013 included rock gardens, succulent gardens, and even conventional grass and landscaping with plants.
What were the reasons for a 2013 homeowner in California to choose artificial turf grass lawns?
- Water Conservation: Amidst growing water scarcity in California, artificial turf was touted as a water-efficient solution.
- Low Maintenance: Homeowners realized savings on maintenance, since their artificial-turf lawn never needed mowing.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Artificial turf had begun to provide a realistic, consistent appearance, enhancing its “curb appeal” to neighbors.
A Decade of Turf Demand – 2013-2023
Over the next decade, the demand for turf artificial grass in San Diego continued at a rate of about 1.2% each year, with it’s growth attributed to three factors:
- Increased Awareness: Homeowners saw their neighbor’s artificial turf, and thus they got first-hand awareness of the long-term benefits & cost-effectiveness of artificial turf.
- Technological Advancements: Improvements in turf-manufacturing techniques and more product-variety made turf more appealing for residences.
- Policy Shifts: Initiatives like the California Artificial Turf Rebates program further incentivized homeowners to choose artificial turf.
Artificial Turf in San Diego – 2023, and Beyond
Fast forward to 2023, the turf artificial grass industry has been growing by 10% each year, since 2013.
In 2023 and beyond, homeowners have the ability to research before deciding, so here’s a look at the potential state of the industry, from the perspective of the San Diego homeowner who may be considering whether they want to get an artificial turf installation.
- Environmental Considerations: As noted in recent studies, turf artificial grass offers substantial water savings, which is important for homeowners. However, increased ground coverage with artificial turf may increase nearby surface temperatures. (Chang et al., 2021; Xiao & Cao, 2013).
- Health and Safety: There are environmental and health concerns about infill materials used in artificial turf, but the actual risk remains low (Cheng, Hu, & Reinhard, 2014).
- Turf Damage: Some homeowners experience artificial turf melting and streaking problems from nearby window reflections. One single artificial-turf lawn that is left in disrepair can cause an entire neighborhood to reject future turf installation.
Looking Ahead
The journey of turf artificial grass in San Diego from 2013 to 2023 illustrates a dynamic and evolving industry. With increasing environmental consciousness and technological advancements, the future of turf artificial grass appears promising, yet it calls for a balanced approach considering both its benefits and challenges.
Total Screen’s Commitment
At Total Screen, we are committed to aligning with these industry shifts, providing solutions like Tuff Mesh that cater to the evolving needs of artificial turf users while addressing environmental concerns.
Data Sources and Citations:
California Governor. “California Is Making It Cheaper to Replace Your Lawn to Save Water and Save Money.” California Governor, 28 Sept. 2022,