Question
I live in Southern CA.  I want to reduce water consumption and maintenance of my yard. I am considering artificial turf as an alternative to stamped concrete or sparse decorative planting with surrounding mulch for a 400 sq. ft. area in my back yard.  I understand that some artificial turf has a residual rubber odor.  My contractor tells me that the brand he sells, Tiger Turf, does not.  Their web site does not address the issue.  

I am also concerned about the heat that I understand that artificial turf absorbs.  Is it also going to reflect that heat and make the yard (which is walled in) feel hotter, or as hot as if the heat was radiated from concrete?  

I also have a problem with gophers which my contractor says will be mitigated by the use of chicken wire under the turf.  

Answer
Hey, Sara.

As with anything new (carpet, cars, paint, etc.), there might be a residual odor, but you should notice it outdoors. I had one of the first Astroturf lawns in Houston way back in the late 1970s, and that stuff had an odor, got hot, and basically really wasn't made for the outdoors, notwithstanding their advertisements. Today's artificial turf is totally different.

It might be a little hotter, but not near as hot as concrete or asphalt.

The chicken wire definitely should abate the gopher problem.

Hope that helps.

Russel