Artificial Turf Face Weight: What You Need to Know About It

Artificial turf face weight refers to ounces of turf fibers per square yard. It comprises only the thatch and the blades without the backing. A denser turf feels softer, lusher, and fuller, so most consumers prefer a greater face weight for residential installations. So, it’s crucial to consider other parameters, such as pile height, when selecting the right artificial turf product.

Artificial turf face weight is crucial when shopping for an ideal landscaping product that would best suit your needs. Contrary to what many homeowners believe, product lines differ regarding drainage rate, blade color, pile height, and face weight.

Whether you’re a novice in the installation industry or a homeowner looking to DIY a project, the language used in artificial turf installation can initially be perplexing. A common term you’ll often hear when searching for artificial turf is face weight.

This article delves into the concept of artificial turf face weight and everything you need to know about it.

What Is Artificial Turf Face Weight

The average face weight often ranges between 40 and 90 ounces per square yard, with the price increasing with an increase in face weight. Since face weight is merely a measure of product weight, synthetic grass with a high face weight may contain densely tufted, thicker, or taller fibers. So, it’s crucial to consider other parameters, such as pile height, when selecting the right artificial turf product.

Why Is Artificial Turf Face Weight Important?

Artificial turf face weight is important due to numerous reasons. They include:

Helps Determine Artificial Turf’s Durability

Face weight helps determine the durability of artificial turf since it affects how much wear and tear it can bear over time. Artificial turf with high face weight indicates a denser turf with more fibers per square yard, which can increase its durability. The weight of fibers adds to the turf’s overall resilience and strength.

It makes it capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic and other forms of usage without exhibiting signs of wearing out or flattening. It is ideal for heavily used areas where durability is paramount, such as playgrounds, sports fields, and commercial landscapes.

It Affects the Resilience of Artificial Turf

Face weight affects the spring-back or resilience of synthetic grass. Usually, ornamental turf with higher face weight has more resilience. The fibers’ higher density helps the blades to bounce back more readily after flattening or compression, maintaining their appearance and shape over time.

It offers a More Realistic Appearance

Face weight has a direct effect on artificial turf’s appearance. A higher face weight leads to a denser artificial turf with a richer and more opulent appearance, similar to natural grass. Your synthetic turf can look more vibrant and fuller, providing an aesthetically appealing and pleasing landscape. It may particularly be useful for commercial and residential landscapes where appearance is crucial.

Enhanced Performance

Face weight also affects artificial turf’s performance, especially in sports applications. A higher face weight turf can provide superior shock absorption and cushioning, lowering the chances of accidents during sports play. It may also affect ball bounce and roll, vital elements in sports like golf, football, and soccer. The right artificial turf face weight depends on the sport’s particular needs.

How Will Face Weight Affect Your Artificial Turf Installation?

Face weight determines your synthetic turf’s longevity, durability, and cost. The higher its face weight, the denser the turf will be. As a result, it will often be stronger, more durable, and better suited to resist heavy foot traffic. While you’ll probably dig deeper into your pocket, ornamental grass with higher face weight will serve you longer and keep your yard looking perfect with little maintenance.

Choosing a synthetic turf product with a very low face weight for your projected foot traffic could lead to extensive matting and damage over time. A higher face weight ornamental turf product would be a smart investment that stands up over time if your property hosts social events, has pets and kids running around, or is a commercial project.

Choosing the Right Artificial Turf Face Weight

Choosing the right face weight is important when planning to install synthetic turf. Here are some things to remember in mind when selecting the appropriate face weight for your artificial turf:

Intended Use

Consider the intended use of the artificial turf and projected foot traffic before choosing an ideal artificial turf face weight. For example, a high face weight grass with enhanced longevity and resilience is advised for high foot traffic areas like commercial spaces, playgrounds, or sports fields. But a lower face weight may suffice for landscaping or decorative spots with low foot traffic.

Cost

Face weight often influences the cost of artificial grass, with higher face weights costing more than low face weights. As a result, it’s crucial to consider your budget when selecting the ideal face weight for your project. Even though higher face weights may provide enhanced performance and durability, they may only sometimes be essential, depending on your needs and budget.

Climate

Your local climate can also influence the choice of face weight. For instance, experts may recommend a lighter face weight in hot and arid climates to prevent the turf from becoming increasingly hot and minimize heat retention. On the other hand, a higher face weight may be better in cooler and wetter climates to provide resilience against moisture and enhance durability.

Talk to an Expert

There are many points to consider when deciding the proper face weight for your decorative turf. And quite often, prospective buyers of synthetic turf need help to make a decision.