OUR MISSION IS TO TAILOR FOR EACH CLIENT A BEAUTIFUL, FUNCTIONAL AND ENDURING OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT THAT WILL PROVIDE A PLACE OF SERENITY FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO APPRECIATE FOR YEARS TO COME.
BuildCal Landscape Landscaping Article
Artificial Turf Installation: A Pasadena Homeowner's Guide
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Why Artificial Turf is Ideal for Pasadena Homes
Pasadena's Mediterranean climate and water restrictions make artificial turf a game-changing landscaping solution. Here's why hundreds of homeowners are switching:
1. Water Conservation
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Saves 55,000+ gallons annually (vs. natural grass)
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Eliminates irrigation needs (perfect for Pasadena's drought regulations)
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Reduces water bills by 30-50%
2. Year-Round Beauty
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Stays lush and green even during summer heatwaves
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No brown patches from sun exposure or pet urine
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Maintains consistent color without seasonal die-off
3. Low Maintenance
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No mowing, edging, or fertilizing
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Eliminates muddy paws during rainy seasons
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Perfect for busy homeowners who want low-maintenance landscaping
4. Family & Pet Friendly
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Non-toxic materials safe for kids and pets
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Drainage layers prevent pooling (unlike compacted soil)
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Withstands heavy foot traffic without wear patterns
Professional Installation: Step-by-Step Process
Our licensed team follows these 8 critical steps for flawless results:
1. Site Evaluation & Planning
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Measure yard dimensions and slope
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Identify drainage needs (especially important in Pasadena's clay soil)
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Recommend optimal turf type (pet-friendly, putting green, etc.)
2. Existing Lawn Removal
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Eco-friendly removal of grass/roots
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Soil testing for proper grading
3. Base Preparation
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4" layer of decomposed granite (compacted to 95%)
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Permeable weed barrier installation
4. Drainage System
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French drains or channel drains if needed
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1% slope minimum for water runoff
5. Turf Installation
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Seamless joining with UV-resistant adhesive
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Perimeter securing with 6" galvanized nails
6. Infill Application
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Silica sand or organic infill for cushioning
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Even distribution with power brushes
7. Final Grooming
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Fiber lifting for natural appearance
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Quality inspection
8. Cleanup & Walkthrough
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Remove all debris
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Demonstrate maintenance basics
Artificial Turf Maintenance Guide
Extend your turf's lifespan to 15+ years with these pro tips:
Monthly Care
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Rinse with hose to remove dust/pollen
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Brush fibers against the grain to prevent matting
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Remove debris (leaves, twigs) with leaf blower
Seasonal Care
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Spring: Apply mild detergent for deep cleaning
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Summer: Rinse lightly to cool surface
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Fall: Clear fallen leaves promptly
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Winter: No special care needed
Pet-Specific Care
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Solid waste removal → hose down area
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Use enzyme cleaners for urine spots
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Avoid harsh chemicals
Pro Tip: Pair turf with smart irrigation systems for surrounding plant beds.
Artificial Turf vs. Natural Grass: Pasadena Comparison
| Feature | Artificial Turf | Natural Grass |
|---|---|---|
| Water Usage | 0 gallons/year | 55,000+ gallons/year |
| Maintenance | 1-2 hours/month | 4-6 hours/month |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 5-7 years (with reseeding) |
| Allergies | Hypoallergenic | Pollen-producing |
| Upfront Cost | Higher initial investment | Lower initial cost |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does turf get too hot in Pasadena summers?
A: Surface temps match natural grass in shaded areas. We recommend:
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Installing near shade trees
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Light midday watering during heat waves
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Choosing lighter-colored turf
Q: Can I install turf around pools or fire features?
A: Absolutely! We coordinate with hardscaping projects for seamless integration.
Q: How does turf handle heavy rain?
A: Properly installed turf drains 22 inches/hour – faster than natural soil.
Q: Is turf safe for children?
A: Yes! Our turf is:
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Lead-free
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Non-abrasive
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Cushioned with safe infill
Transform Your Pasadena Yard Today
Ready to enjoy a green, water-wise lawn year-round?
Call: (818) 303-1570
Email: arin@buildcal.com
Visit: Our Glendale Office
Serving: Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, and surrounding areas.
Thinking about a new outdoor space?
We’d love to hear your ideas. Let’s explore what’s possible—no pressure, just a friendly conversation.
Give us a call:
+1 (818) 303-1570
Frequently Asked Question
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, AND LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS?
Landscape designers may provide design ideas, landscape plans, planting plans and lighting plans. Some also offer installation-related services such as material selection or plant placement. While they may provide conceptual ideas on garden structures, irrigation, and hardscape layout, most are not licensed to provide construction drawings. Likewise, while they may work closely with contractors overseeing the aesthetic elements of an installation, most are not licensed to provide actual construction services. Their education is in residential design, which emphasizes design strategies, hardscape options, and plant materials appropriate for residential projects.
Landscape architects are licensed by the State of California and, in addition to the plans typically provided by a landscape designer, are qualified to produce construction-ready plans that may include complex retaining walls, grading and drainage plans, and physical structures. Their training emphasizes design for large public and commercial spaces such as parks and commercial landscapes, although some specialize in residential projects.
Landscape contractors are licensed to install the designs created by landscape designers and landscape architects. Some are design/build companies, and provide design and maintenance services as well. When working with a design/build firm, be sure to clarify the design process used and whether you will receive landscape drawings for your review and approval or just a verbal or written description of the landscape to be installed. Some design/build companies bundle the design fees with the cost of construction, but it is still important to understand the design cost component should you decide to hire a different company for installation.