Whether you’re a homeowner looking into turf for the first time or an installer just starting out in the industry, it’s important to understand the terminology associated with synthetic grass. Knowing these terms is crucial in making the best purchasing decisions for your needs and finding a wholesale synthetic turf manufacturer who can fulfill them.

From pile height to tuft lock, each term plays a significant role in the quality and durability of the artificial turf product. If you want to ensure you’re receiving the best products for your project, keep in mind these four key artificial grass terms.

Pile Height

The term pile height describes the length of the artificial turf blades. This length is measured from where the tufts bind to the backing to the tips of the blades. Generally, pile heights range from 0.4 to three inches long.

The shorter your turf’s pile height is, the better it is for use in more durable turf products. Longer blades of grass provide a more luxurious look and feel, but they can become matted if your lawn is overused. It’s important to strike the right balance in order to achieve your desired look while selecting a product that can withstand the appropriate amount of foot traffic for your property.

Face Weight

Face weight is a measurement of how many ounces of yarn are used per square yard of turf. This excludes the weight of any infill and backing; it only measures the weight of the blades themselves. Turf products with higher face weights are softer and thicker than products with a lower face weight. The average range for residential synthetic turf face weights is about 40 to 80 ounces per square yard. 

The face weight of a synthetic grass product helps determine its durability, appearance, product quality, and overall cost. The higher the face weight of your artificial turf, the denser the turf will be. This means that it will generally be more durable and able to withstand high amounts of foot traffic. Many property owners prefer a higher face weight for their installation because it provides an enhanced appearance as well as greater durability.

Polyurethane Backing

The artificial turf’s backing is the material that holds the turf blades in place while allowing water to filter through. Turf backing is typically made up of two separate layers: the primary backing and the coating. The primary backing is the material which the turf is looped through. It’s a nonwoven textile typically manufactured from polypropylene. After the grass fiber is tufted through the primary backing, the coating locks the tuft bind into place. It’s cooked into the backing at high temperatures to create a solid adhesive and ensure longevity and durability.

There are two primary materials used for these coatings: latex and polyurethane. Polyurethane is the newer and much more preferred choice because it provides several benefits for your installation, including greater flexibility, ease of installation, and temperature resistance. It also has a much longer lifespan, allowing your turf grass lawn to recover from foot traffic without losing turf blades for a longer period of time versus latex backings. All SGW artificial grass products boast polyurethane backings that are among the best and most advanced in the industry.

Tuft Lock

The tuft lock, or tuft bind, refers to the security of the synthetic grass fibers in the backing. A good tuft lock means that the fibers are very securely attached to the backing and can withstand thousands of pounds of pull force resistance, resulting in a more durable and long-lasting turf product. A low tuft lock can cause the fibers to loosen and detach from the backing, leading to a quicker deterioration of the synthetic grass’s appearance and functionality.

Tuft lock can be affected by factors such as face weight and backing material. A higher face weight and a high-quality polyurethane backing can contribute to a stronger tuft lock and, therefore, a longer-lasting product. Ask your installer about tuft lock when choosing your synthetic grass product to ensure you’re getting the best value possible.

If you need guidance in choosing the right artificial turf wholesale for your home or business, speak to your installer or contact your local SGW Bay Area location. We can help you find the perfect synthetic grass products for your unique needs. SGW Bay Area has been an industry leader for more than 20 years, helping distributors, installers and homeowners alike with all their artificial grass installation needs. To find out more about artificial grass wholesale or to receive guidance with your next turf grass installation, contact your local SGW Bay Area facility today.