Artificial turf has come a long way since it first was used more than 50 years ago. According to the Family Handyman, the first major sports event played on artificial turf was in 1971 when the Super Bowl was played in Miami's Orange Bowl. Some 52 years later, artificial turf companies have greatly improved the turf they use, which is now used in most professional and college sports stadiums and even in many high school sports venues. Here's a closer look at why.

Artificial Turf Is More Durable Than Grass

Artificial turf is very durable and can hold up under a variety of conditions and uses. It is instrumental in multi-purpose venues where a sporting event might be held one day and a concert a couple of days later. You can put seats directly on the turf or on a hard surface that covers the turf without worrying about ruining the playing field. In contrast, grass can suffer significant damage that might take a very long time to correct. At the very least, it would require re-sodding.

Artificial Turf Is Safer Than Grass

Artificial turf companies have made significant advancements that make turf safer than grass. Even when exposed to the elements, artificial turf does not become as slick as wet grass and it never gets muddy. If a game is held in bitterly cold temperatures, the turf will not freeze and create a hard surface like natural grass often does. The turf is also engineered to help prevent injuries by being more forgiving than the ground and giving players better footing under virtually all playing conditions.

Artificial Turf Works Indoors and Out

Possibly the most significant advantage of artificial turf is that it does not require sunlight, watering, and fertilizer to maintain it like grass. Indoor stadiums and those with roofs that open and close cannot support grass due to the lack of sunlight and the need to regularly water the field. Instead, artificial turf companies can install grass-like turf that always looks good and does not require nearly as much maintenance as true grass. It also lessens the need for water, which can be very scarce in warm and dry environments.

It makes perfect sense for large sports stadiums to use artificial turf over natural grass. With the help of artificial turf companies, you can experience the same benefits when you install turf in your backyard, school sports field, poolside area, and anywhere else you may desire. You can learn more about the many benefits of artificial turf and how it might work for you by calling Turf Team USA today.