Artificial Grass in Taft, CA

Artificial grass in Taft makes sense because natural grass barely does. Taft sits in the foothills at the southwest edge of the San Joaquin Valley, about 32 miles west-southwest of Bakersfield, and averages only about 5.4 inches of rain a year. Typically no rain falls at all from June through September. A lawn there lives entirely on irrigation for most of the year.

Heat on the west side

Taft averages about 113 days a year above 90 degrees, with a record high of 112 degrees set in July 2008. Synthetic turf in full sun gets much hotter than grass; a UNLV study measured surfaces up to 169 degrees. We plan turf for shaded spots and morning-sun yards where possible, and suggest lighter turf colors and cooling infills where it has to be in full sun.

Oil town roots

Taft is the heart of the Midway-Sunset oil field, which has produced nearly 4 billion barrels of mostly heavy crude, and was home to the Lakeview Gusher. Many yards are on older lots near oil operations. When we excavate, we sometimes find old gravel, buried concrete or compacted fill. We remove what does not belong and compact a fresh base.

Foothill soils and grades

Taft sits higher than most valley towns, at 955 feet, and some lots have a slope. We grade the base so water from the rare winter storm runs away from the house, and anchor turf more closely on sloped areas.

Homes and households

Taft had 8,546 residents in 2020, with 2,596 housing units; 58.2% of occupied homes were owner-occupied. Projects range from small front yards to backyard play areas and dog runs.

What it costs

National published ranges put installed turf at about $6 to $22 per square foot, with removal about $1 to $2.75 per square foot. Travel to the west side is built into the written quote, which lists every item separately.

Upkeep in a dusty place

Wind and nearby oil roads bring dust. Blow it off, rinse occasionally and brush high-traffic areas a few times a year. No mowing and no summer watering.

Pets and kids in a hot town

With so many days above 90 degrees, turf in Taft gets hot in the afternoon. We set dog runs and play areas in shaded spots where we can, under patio covers or on the north and east sides of the house, and suggest a hose-down before use on hot afternoons. Mornings and evenings are when turf is most comfortable.

Call (661) 518-3185 or

Get a Free Estimate

for a free Taft estimate.