Artificial turf, also known as synthetic turf, is gaining popularity in the United States. Along with hundreds of neighborhood and professional fields, it has found its way into NFL arenas, including the home of the New England Patriots, Gillette Stadium.

Now 13 NFL teams have different varieties of artificial turf installed in their home grounds. Aside from providing better playing conditions, artificial turf can last longer and is easier to maintain.

1. Simple Installation

Artificial turf is easier to install. It comes in the form of blocks of different sizes and proportions. It allows for much more  accuracy in measuring the dimensions of the football field before making the purchase. It takes on average two to three days to complete an installation on a standard football field sized area.

2. Stunning Appearance

Unlike natural grass, artificial turf does not have patches of dried grass, dirt, or weeds showing up on the field. Synthetic turf offers a uniform grassy look that is visually appealing, whatever the weather.

3. Better Playing Conditions

Artificial turf can provide you with better playing conditions. The uniform grassy surface is ideal for providing firm support during tackles and touchdowns. Rainy conditions can make natural glass sticky or slippery that can pose serious problems to a football game. This is not the case with synthetic turf as it can offer better traction under such conditions.

4. Easy Maintenance

You will find the maintenance a simple process. It is a combination of rolling, watering and track renewal. The track, which is actually the underground base of the turf, consists of gravel, dry silicon, wire mesh and associated materials. You will need regular maintenance if the field is in heavy use. Otherwise, a six-monthly refurbishment will be enough. You need to be more regular with watering and rolling though as otherwise the turf may become uneven.

5. Economy

Artificial turf may appear a costly alternative to grass but it is easier to maintain and lasts longer. You may need to replace natural grass at regular intervals, often within weeks, as it is subject to rot given its full exposure to the elements. You may also need to employ an army of maintenance staff to keep the field under pristine conditions.

Artificial turf comes in many constructions. This can help you in finding a particular variant of synthetic turf that can offer simple maintenance and lasts longer.