Backyard featuring a small swimming pool surrounded by artificial grass and stone walls.

How to Tell if Artificial Grass is Good Quality

Published on 25 Jun 2024

by Mike Tuhaka

Key takeaways

  • Polyethylene offers a soft, natural feel for home lawns and play areas, while polypropylene is less soft but more durable for heavy foot traffic.
  • A pile height of 30mm to 40mm is often recommended for a realistic look, and denser turf is more durable, lusher and more comfortable underfoot.
  • Choose turf with built-in UV stabilisers so it keeps its colour and structure under intense Australian sun.
  • Look for a two-layer backing that drains well, and match the infill to the use: silica sand for homes, crumb rubber for extra cushioning in high-traffic areas.
  • Check the product has been tested for safety, UV resistance and environmental impact, and holds relevant certifications.

Artificial grass has surged in popularity across Perth, offering a low-maintenance, aesthetically pleasing solution for garden enthusiasts and homeowners alike. However, not all artificial turf is created equal. To ensure you are investing in a high-quality product that will stand the test of time, it’s crucial to understand the key factors determining the quality of artificial grass. Here are the essential aspects you should consider.

Also read: Artificial Grass Benefits

Materials and Manufacturing Process

The materials used in manufacturing artificial grass significantly impact its quality and longevity. Premium artificial grass is typically made from either polyethylene, polypropylene, or a blend of both. Polyethylene is often preferred for its soft texture and natural appearance, making it an excellent choice for residential lawns and children’s play areas. Polypropylene, while less soft, offers higher durability, which is ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic.

High-quality artificial grass will also employ advanced manufacturing techniques such as tufting and a multi-layered backing system, which increases resilience and ensures the blades stand upright. Therefore, it’s worth consulting with suppliers about the manufacturing process and materials used.

Read more: Understanding The Different Types Of Artificial Grass

Pile Height and Density

Pile height refers to the length of the grass blades, generally measured from the top of the backing to the tip of the fibres. For a realistic look, a pile height between 30mm to 40mm is often recommended. Anything shorter might look artificial, while longer blades could flop over without sufficient support.

Density pertains to how closely the blades are stitched together. Denser grass, measured in stitches per square metre, tends to be more durable and offers a more lush appearance. Dense artificial grass also feels more comfortable underfoot and can better withstand wear and tear.

UV Resistance

Living in Australia means exposure to intense sunlight, which can be particularly harsh on outdoor materials. Poor-quality artificial grass may fade or degrade under the sun’s UV rays. Therefore, choosing artificial turf with built-in UV stabilisers is essential. This feature helps maintain the grass’s colour and structural integrity over time, ensuring it looks vibrant for longer.

Read more: Choosing The Best Artificial Grass For Perth Weather

Backing Quality

The backing is another crucial component that contributes to the overall quality and durability of artificial grass. High-end products typically feature a two-layer backing system: a primary layer that holds the grass fibres in place and a secondary layer that provides additional strength and stability.

Look for a backing that allows adequate drainage to prevent water pooling and promote quick drying after rainfall. A good drainage system will help keep your lawn clean, functional, and free from bacteria buildup.

Infill Options

Though often overlooked, the type of infill used in artificial grass significantly affects its performance and comfort. Infill materials, such as silica sand or crumb rubber, help support the blades, keeping them upright and adding weight to the turf for stability. Silica sand is commonly recommended for residential applications due to its natural appearance and superior drainage capabilities.

Crumb rubber provides additional cushioning and is often used in sports fields or high-traffic areas. Ensure the infill chosen aligns with the intended use of your artificial lawn.

Testing and Certifications

Quality artificial grass should meet industry standards and possess relevant certifications. Check if the product has been tested for safety, UV resistance, and environmental impact. Legitimate certifications offer peace of mind that the grass conforms to stringent quality standards.

Choosing high-quality artificial grass is pivotal in ensuring a lush, long-lasting, and low-maintenance landscape. At Perth Landscape Guys, we specialise in providing top-quality artificial grass that meets the highest industry standards. Contact us today to explore our range of products and find the perfect solution for your landscape needs.

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Mike Tuhaka

Mike Tuhaka

Mike Tuhaka runs Perth Landscape Guys. He and his team design and build outdoor spaces right across Perth, from Currambine down to Mandurah, including paving, decking, retaining walls, artificial grass, lawn and reticulation. They are preferred installers for Freo Stone, Eco Stone and Remastone, and have worked on commercial projects for Murdoch University and Parsons Group. What customers mention most is Mike’s honest advice and the regular updates from the first plan to the final clean up.

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