As temperatures rise and Brits head outdoors to enjoy barbecues and garden gatherings, experts are warning homeowners about a surprisingly common heatwave mistake. Artificial grass has become increasingly popular in UK gardens due to its low-maintenance, year-round appeal. However, while it can withstand muddy paws, football games, and summer parties, it is far less resilient when faced with intense heat.
Barbecue Damage Can Be Costly
According to Colin Potts, founder of Artificial Grass Direct, many homeowners unknowingly damage their artificial lawns with barbecues, mirrors, and glass furniture. He explains: 'A disposable barbecue left on the lawn, or even sunlight bouncing off a glass door at the wrong angle, can cause permanent damage that is completely avoidable with a bit of know-how.' The synthetic fibers used in artificial turf can melt or scorch when exposed to concentrated heat. Even a small disposable barbecue placed directly on the lawn for a short period can leave blackened patches or melted plastic that cannot be easily repaired. In many cases, the only solution is to replace entire sections, with costs ranging from £150 for a small patch to over £2,000 for a full replacement.
Barbecue Safety for Children
Beyond the garden, there is a human cost to summertime carelessness. Data from RoSPA and the Children's Burns Trust shows that 215 children were hospitalized with serious barbecue-related burns last year, a 7% rise in a single year. Hundreds more young people and potentially thousands of adults were treated for less severe injuries. Rebecca Guy, senior policy manager at RoSPA, comments: 'Barbecues cause serious burns every year, often because people underestimate how hot they stay long after cooking has finished. Children should be kept well away from barbecues at all times, and disposable barbecues must never be moved or put in bins until they are completely cold. Simple steps like safe placement, supervision, and proper disposal can prevent life-changing injuries.'
Protecting Your Lawn
To protect your lawn, Colin recommends keeping barbecues on hard, fireproof surfaces such as paving slabs or patios, away from artificial grass. Allow space for embers that may spit or roll. Additionally, wait until coals are fully extinguished and cold before moving the barbecue. Consider using a specialized heat mat or fire pit pad as an extra precaution on any surface.
Sunlight Reflection Risks
Barbecues are not the only hidden risk during warmer weather. Sunlight itself can cause damage when reflected toward a single spot. Colin notes: 'We see this a lot in the spring when people start getting their gardens ready. A garden mirror goes up, or new double glazing has been installed over the winter, and suddenly there is a melted patch appearing on the lawn. Once you know what to look for, it is easy to prevent, but it catches a lot of people off guard.' Sunlight reflecting from mirrors, patio doors, windows, and decorative objects can create concentrated heat hotspots powerful enough to melt synthetic grass fibers over time. It can also burn or even start fires on regular grass, fencing, and garden furniture.
Garden Mirrors: A Trend with Risks
Garden mirrors have become a major trend, with many homeowners using them to make smaller outdoor spaces appear brighter and larger. Matt Baldock, buyer at Garden Trading, explains: 'When placed strategically, mirrors can reflect both light and planting to create the illusion of a larger, more open space. They can completely transform how enclosed a garden feels.' However, the same way they amplify light and greenery can pose a problem in the wrong spot, creating an effect like a magnifying glass.
Indoor Shiny Objects
Angèle Sofia, founder of jewellery company L'ERA, urges Brits to be mindful of shiny objects inside the home. She says: 'Mirrors, glass holders, crystal trays, and mirrored jewellery boxes can all be overlooked, but if they are sitting in direct sunlight, they can reflect light onto flammable materials nearby.' To avoid this, move shiny items away from windows or doors to areas without direct sunlight. Ensure outdoor mirrors are positioned in shadier spots. Homeowners should watch for discolored or flattened patches appearing after sunny weather, especially without an obvious heat source, and move offending items accordingly.
Taking these precautions now can help prevent costly repairs and potential injuries, allowing you to enjoy the rare British sunshine safely.
