When it comes to choosing grass turf for your home, quality is key.
As one of the highest rated turf installation companies in Louisville, we know the difference.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re shopping around: Not only does high-quality grass turf look more natural and appealing, but it also lasts longer and performs better over time.
Whether you’re landscaping your backyard, creating a play area, or designing a commercial space in Louisville, KY, knowing how to spot quality grass turf can make all the difference before you pay someone to install it.
Here’s a guide to help you determine the quality of your turf:
Look at the pile height and density.
The “pile height” is the length of the grass blades.
The higher pile heights create a more comfy and soft feeling when you step on it.
For most residential lawns, a pile height of 30-37 mm is best.
However, higher traffic areas might benefit from shorter pile heights which endure wear better. The amount of people or animals that are stepping on your turf and its ability to sustain that is what really matters.
Density, or stitch rate, refers to the number of stitches per square meter.
A higher density means more blades of grass per square meter and results in a fuller and more natural-looking turf.
Quality turf should have a high density, which helps the grass stand upright and reduces the amount of infill needed.
Check the yarn quality.
Unlike natural grass, the turf is made out of materials which are manufactured to deal with the environment.
Yarn material and technology significantly affect the turf’s durability and UV stability.
Nylon, polyethylene, and polypropylene are common materials used in artificial grass.
Each has different characteristics:
Nylon: Highly durable and resilient but can feel rougher and has less natural color.
Polyethylene: Soft, with a natural look and feel, and is very durable.
Polypropylene: Less expensive but not as resilient or durable as the other materials.
The type of yarn used in artificial grass affects both its durability and its feel.
For example, polyethylene yarns are known for their softness, closely mimicking the feel of natural grass, making them ideal for residential lawns where comfort is a priority.
On the other hand, nylon, known for its strength and resilience, is suitable for putting greens where the turf needs to maintain a smooth, consistent surface over time.
Really – think about what the turf would be used for and what type of material would be best for you.
You should also be aware Turf for pets can be slightly different than turf for front yards, since it serves different purposes.
Check the backing material.
You should check the backing of artificial turf is what holds the blades in place. This is the spine holding up the grass turf.
A quality backing is super important for the longevity of the turf.
It should be strong enough to withstand pulls and tears and should have excellent drainage capabilities.
Look for a turf with a double backing layer; one is usually made of urethane for its strength, and the other may be a woven fabric that aids in drainage.
Look at the color and texture.
High-quality artificial grass should have varied hues of green and even some brown flecks to mimic real grass closely. It should look as close to real grass as possible.
The blades should also vary in width and length to enhance the natural look. Avoid turf that looks too uniformly green or synthetic – it often indicates a lower quality product.
These subtle color variations can make a significant difference in areas where the aesthetic integration of the turf with natural landscaping is crucial.
In terms of texture, manufacturers might use different shapes of yarn, such as a ‘W’ shaped blade, which can help reduce the surface area that is exposed to sunlight, minimizing the heat retention of the turf.
These types of innovations not only improve the visual and tactile quality of the turf but also enhance its functionality by making it more comfortable during hot weather.
Feel the texture of the tuf.
Finally, you should feel the texture of the grass.
High-quality artificial turf should feel soft and pleasant, not just to the eye but also to the touch.
A rough texture can be uncomfortable for pets and people, especially in play areas or where you expect barefoot traffic.
The feel of the turf is not just about comfort but also about quality and performance.
Soft, well-crafted turf provides a comfortable surface that is ideal for families with children or for pets to play on. It reduces the risk of abrasions and injuries, making it a preferred choice for residential applications.
Also, the feel of the turf can be a good indicator of its overall quality.
Turf that feels too plasticky or harsh to the touch may be made of inferior materials and could degrade faster.
In contrast, turf that feels soft and pleasant underfoot without compromising on resilience is likely made with high-grade materials and advanced manufacturing processes.
You should pay attention to detail in the texture not only enhances user experience but also reflects the manufacturer’s commitment to quality.
If you’re a Louisville homeowners and have any questions about turf, give us a call at (502) 677-4548 and we’d be happy to answer any questions you have!