Homeowners are loving the benefits of artificial turf due to their durability and natural appearance. Artificial turf didn’t start out with that natural appearance however, it has certainly come a long way with major advancements in technology. These advancements have made it possible to achieve not only a natural-looking appearance but also a soft, comfortable feel and increased durability. Keep in mind that not all brands of artificial turf are created equal. Quality plays an important role in how long your grass holds up as well as choosing the right artificial turf for your foot traffic. Below are several factors in determining what turf is right for you.
Artificial Turf Backing
The backing is important! The blades of your artificial turf are tucked into a polyurethane backing. This helps keep the fibers intact. Quality backing increases durability against thousands of pounds of resistance per square inch. This is super important for high-traffic areas such as backyard playgrounds or dog runs. There are two layers to the backing: the primary backing, where the blades are looped through, and the coating where the tuft bind is glued in. Tuft bind can withstand about ten pounds of force, on average, before monofilament will be removed from the backing. Natural grass doesn’t even come close to this kind of durability. In high traffic areas, natural grass can easily get pulled out leaving you with unsightly patches.
The Face Weight
Face weight is another factor in a turf product’s durability. Face weight is the weight of the fibers within the product. If you have a high traffic area, look for a heavier face weight. It will hold up better since it is stronger and more hardwearing. If your area is on the light traffic side then it’s ok to choose a lighter face weight. You just want to be sure not to compromise on this because if the face weight of the turf you choose is too light then you’ll be decreasing the lifespan of your artificial grass and you’ll drastically see the appearance of your lawn degrade.
Artificial Turf Pile Height
Pile height is the height of the blades of grass used in the turf. The shorter the pile height is, the more durable your artificial turf ends up being. If your lawn is mainly for looks and foot traffic is low then go with a long, lush blade. Longer blades of grass are more commonly used for front yards as they give a more luxurious look. However, in a high traffic area, taller pile height can become matted and look worn down in a short amount of time. If you have kids, dogs, or if the areas are used frequently then go for a shorter pile height. This will allow you to get the most out of your artificial grass and extend its lifespan.
Turf for Pets & Putting Greens
The moment you decide to install artificial turf in an area where you’ll be using it frequently the need for durability goes up. So if your area involves dogs running or golf games, choose one of our products specially made for these specific scenarios. Our pet-friendly grass is intended to hold up against regular dog use. Our pet installations come with durable backing to prevent digging, anti-microbial infill for odor prevention, and efficient drainage. You don’t need to think about pile height or face weight because the need has already been determined. The same goes for putting greens. At Artificial Grass Turf Warehouse, we have a specific turf for your putting green so you get a smooth roll that mimics a natural golf field. This allows for extra practice right in your home. It can also be fully customized for your style of play.
If you’re considering installing artificial turf at your home then reach out to us and we can guide you through your options. Not all turf is created equal. No matter if you have high traffic or low traffic, you’ll want to make sure you’re starting with a quality turf in any scenario. We can help you choose a turf that works best for your expected level of foot traffic. We have a wide variety of artificial grass styles so we are confident you’ll find one that best suits your needs. Call us at Artificial Grass Turf Warehouse (844) 768-8873 to speak with one of our experienced professionals to get the advice you need.