The Ultimate Colorado Homeowner’s Guide to Artificial Turf in 2025: Design, Cost, Installation, and Everything You Need to Know
Artificial Turf
As a Colorado homeowner, you already know the challenges of maintaining a lush, green lawn, especially if you moved here from the midwest where green lawns were the norm without a lot of maintenance. Between water restrictions, scorching summer heat, and the sheer effort (and cost) of mowing and watering, achieving that picture-perfect grass is no simple feat. That’s why, in 2025, more Coloradans than ever are turning to artificial turf as an attractive, sustainable solution. But before you make the switch, it’s important to understand what makes for good artificial grass, how installation works, and the nitty-gritty details like costs, maintenance, safety for kids and pets, and even how your old sprinkler system gets dealt with. Read on for the definitive guide to transforming your outdoor space with artificial turf—complete with pro landscaping tips and ways to save.
What Makes Good Artificial Turf in 2025?
Artificial turf has come a long way in recent years. Gone are the days of plastic-looking, scratchy-looking turf. Today, high-quality artificial grass is soft, realistic, and comes with features that mimic real lawn:
1. Realistic Appearance
Fiber Colors & Blades: Premium turfs have multi-toned blades and even brown “thatch” to simulate the natural underlayer of a real lawn.
Pile Height: A good range for backyard use is 1.5" to 2", offering both realism and comfort.
Density: More blades per inch means a fuller, lush look that bounces back underfoot.
2. Durability
Material: Polyethylene is popular for softness and realism, while polypropylene is often used for putting greens. Nylon is ultra-durable for high-traffic areas.
UV Protection: Ensure turf is UV-stabilized to withstand Colorado’s high-altitude sun.
3. Draining & Cooling
Perforated Backing: Allows rapid rainwater drainage—even after a Colorado thunderstorm.
Cool Technology: Some modern turfs feature infrared-reflective pigment to reduce surface heat by up to 15% on hot days.
4. Safety & Eco-Friendliness
Certifications: Look for lead-free, non-toxic products, especially if you have kids or pets.
Sustainability: Some brands now use plant-based or recycled materials.
The Installation Process: What Happens to Your Yard?
Artificial turf installation is a science and an art. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Initial Design Consultation
A professional landscaper will assess your yard’s shape, slope, sun exposure, intended usage (kids? pets? sports?), and help you select the best turf. Not sure how to design your backyard? This is the perfect time to discuss adding pathways, patios, dog runs, and play spaces.
2. Site Preparation
Removing Existing Grass: Your old lawn (sod and 2-3 inches of soil) will be removed with sod cutters. Some eco-minded landscapers offer to recycle the removed soil or sod.
Dealing With Sprinkler Systems: Existing sprinkler lines are capped professionally. If preferred, some zones can be rerouted for garden beds or trees, or converted for drip irrigation.
3. Installing the Base
A stable base is key for longevity:
Crushed Rock Layer: 3-4" of compacted, crushed granite or limestone ensures drainage and prevents weeds.
Grading: Ensures water flows away from your home or patios.
4. Laying the Turf
Cutting and Seam Joining: Turf rolls are cut and joined flawlessly.
Infill Application: Depending on the turf, silica sand or antimicrobial infill is added to weigh down the turf, keep blades upright, and minimize bacteria.
5. Clean Up & Final Touches
Final grooming, edge tidying, and a thorough quality inspection wrap up the install.
How Much Does Artificial Turf Cost in Colorado (2025)?
Prices in 2025 will vary by product quality, site prep needs, and total area (not to mention potential increases due to economic tarrifs), but here’s a realistic cost range for Colorado homeowners:
Materials: $4 to $8 per square foot for mid- to high-end turf (cheaper products exist, but often lack durability or realism).
Installation: $5 to $9 per square foot, including removal, base prep, and labor.
Total installed cost: $9 to $17 per square foot
Example: For a 1,000 sq ft backyard, expect $9,000 to $17,000.
Artificial Turf Maintenance: Short & Long Term
Artificial turf is famously low-maintenance, but it isn’t entirely “set and forget.” Here’s what you need to know:
Short Term
Initial Settling: After installation, light brushing helps “fluff up” fibers.
Pet Owners: Rinse after pet use to minimize odors; use pet-friendly infill for maximum odor resistance.
Long Term
Cleaning: Hose off dirt, pollen, and pet urine regularly.
Brushing: Use a plastic rake or broom every few months to keep blades upright and fresh.
Weed Patrol: Occasionally, weeds can sneak through edges—spot treat with natural solutions.
Annual Inspection: Check seams and edges; re-apply infill if needed.
Quality turf can last 15–20 years in Colorado’s climate with basic care!
Safety with Kids and Pets: Key Considerations
Artificial lawns are popular playgrounds and dog paradises, but it’s smart to think through safety:
Non-Toxic: Ensure your turf is certified lead-free and contains no harmful chemicals.
Temperature: Turf can heat up more than natural grass. Modern “cool” technology helps, but provide shaded zones, especially if kids or pets will spend hours outside.
Cushioning: For play areas or falls, ask about extra shock pad layers underneath.
Pet Waste: Choose antimicrobial infill and good drainage to keep things safe and odor-free.
Pro-tip: Install artificial turf with slightly taller, softer blades for play spaces and pet runs.
Designing Your Colorado Backyard with Artificial Turf
If you’re new to outdoor design, don’t fret! Artificial turf is incredibly versatile. Here are design ideas to inspire your perfect outdoor retreat:
1. Kid Zones
Dedicate a turf area for bounce houses, swings, or sports. Add rubber mulch or soft pathways for extra safety.
2. Pet Paradise
Design a dog run with rinse stations, integrated fencing, or built-in agility equipment.
3. Entertaining Spaces
Surround your turf with paver patios, garden beds, pergolas, and LED lighting. Turf is a perfect “infield” for fire pits, dining areas, or movie nights.
4. Golf & Games
Install a custom putting green, bocce court, or cornhole zone (yes, on artificial turf!).
5. Water-Wise Landscaping
Combine turf with native plant beds, flagstone trails, and pollinator gardens for a lush look that still saves water.
TIP: Most landscaping companies offer 3D design services so you can “see” your new backyard before you commit.
What Happens to My Old Sprinkler System?
Good question! You don’t need a traditional sprinkler system for artificial turf. Options include:
Capping/Clearing: Capping off unused zones so you don’t waste water or risk line leaks.
Converting: Repurpose lines for drip irrigation to water trees, shrubs, and flower beds.
Removing: If you’d rather, lines can be pulled up during turf installation.
Your landscaping company should walk you through the best solution for your property and future outdoor plans.
Rebate Options for Artificial Turf in Colorado (2025)
Water utilities and some local governments in Colorado are offering rebates for turf removal or conversion to water-wise landscaping—artificial turf often qualifies!
Denver Water, Aurora Water, Colorado Springs Utilities, and other cities previously offered rebates of 1–1–3 per square foot for “Xeriscape” or synthetic turf installations.
Check current programs: Rebates change often, especially with new conservation targets. Below are several rebate programs in South Denver that may apply to you.
Lone Tree Rebates (Lone Tree residents can participate in the ColoradoScape Renovation Rebate program)
How to apply: Most require pre-approval before installation and proof of completion.
Your landscaping company should help with the paperwork to maximize your savings.
Ready for a Lush, Low-Water Lawn in Colorado? Get a Free Design Estimate!
Artificial turf can transform challenging Colorado backyards into beautiful, functional, and eco-friendly spaces for the whole family—without endless maintenance or costly water bills.
Get started today!
Free design consultation with a professional Colorado landscaper.
3D design renderings so you can visualize your perfect backyard.
Transparent quotes with clear cost breakdowns—and help finding current rebates.
Experts in safe, pet and kid-friendly installations that last for years.
Contact us now to get your project started or to ask questions about turf, design, or other landscaping services.