Pile Height and Density

In the world of artificial grass, ‘pile height’ and ‘density’ are two essential terms that significantly impact the overall look, feel, and performance of the turf. Understanding these terms will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your project’s specific needs and preferences.

Pile height refers to the length of the grass blades from the backing to the tip. It’s generally measured in millimetres, and the standard pile heights range from 20mm to 50mm. Shorter pile heights (20-30mm) often create a neat, manicured look, making them a popular choice for putting greens, tennis courts, and commercial spaces. In contrast, longer pile heights (35-50mm) create a lush, natural-looking lawn and are more suited to residential lawns, garden areas, and high-end sports pitches.

A longer pile isn’t always better. While it might provide a luxurious look, it can also flatten more easily under foot traffic, leading to a less attractive ‘flattened’ appearance over time. That’s where pile density comes in.

Pile density refers to the amount of yarn (grass blades) per square unit of the turf. It’s typically measured in stitches per square metre or square yard. A higher stitch rate signifies greater density. High-density turf not only offers a fuller and more natural appearance but also exhibits better resilience against foot traffic, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like playgrounds, sports fields, and busy commercial spaces.

One must consider that high-density, long-pile turf can be more expensive due to the increased amount of material used. Therefore, it’s crucial to balance pile height, density, and your budget when selecting artificial grass.

The combination of pile height and density contributes to the ‘face weight’ of the artificial grass – a term referring to the weight of the grass blades per square yard, excluding the weight of the backing. Face weight is another critical indicator of the turf’s quality, durability, and softness.

Choosing the right pile height and density largely depends on your project requirements. For sports applications, a short pile height with high density can provide the necessary durability and ball roll characteristics. Residential lawns might require a medium to long pile with moderate to high density for a natural look and feel, while playgrounds might need a high-density turf to withstand heavy use.

The region’s climate can also influence the choice. In hotter climates, a longer pile that can hold more infill might be beneficial to keep the surface cool. In contrast, in rainy regions, a shorter pile height with efficient drainage systems would be a wise choice to prevent waterlogging.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the pile height and density of artificial grass. It’s about understanding the needs of your specific project and choosing accordingly.