All About Artificial Grass Backing Before Buying

Beneath the vibrant green blades of artificial grass lies a hidden world that holds the key to its performance, durability, and overall success: the backing. Often unseen and underappreciated, the backing is playing a crucial role in its functionality and aesthetics. So, let's explore the fascinating world of artificial grass backing, delving into its different types, functionalities, and considerations for choosing the right one for your specific needs.

The Foundation of Performance: Understanding the Anatomy of Backing

Just like real grass has its intricate root system, artificial grass relies on a multi-layered backing system for stability and structure. Typical backing systems comprise:

1. Primary Backing:

• • • The foundation of the system, usually made of woven or non-woven fabrics like polypropylene or polyester.
    • Its job is to provide a strong and stable foundation for the grass fibers to be tufted into.
    • Facilitates seaming between panels for larger installations.

2. Secondary Backing:

• • • The glue that holds everything together.
    • Typically coated with latex, polyurethane (PU), or Polyethylene-reinforced Thermoplastic (PRT).
    • Secures the grass fibers and enhances the overall stability of the turf.

While these are the basic components, some advanced backings incorporate additional layers or features for specific applications, such as improved drainage or enhanced comfort.

Choosing the Right Ally: Different Types of Backings and Their Strengths

Selecting the right backing is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your artificial grass. Here's a closer look at the common types:

a) Hole-Punch Backing:

• • The traditional workhorse, featuring small holes punched throughout the fabric for drainage.
  • Perfect for most residential applications but might not be ideal for heavy pet traffic or frequent rainfall.

b) Flow-Through Backing:

• • The drainage champion, featuring intricate channels or perforations for rapid water dissipation.
  • Ideal for pet-friendly areas and high-traffic zones.

c) Double-Layered Backing:

• • The stability king, featuring two layers of fabric for enhanced dimensional stability and wrinkle resistance.
  • Perfect for high-traffic areas and hot climates.

d) Polypropylene (PP) Backing

• • Affordable, strong, and provides a stable base for tufting grass fibers.
  • The problem is it can degrade over time in harsh weather and may not offer the best drainage if not combined with drainage features.

e) Polyester (PET) Backing:

• • Similar to PP, it's strong, affordable, and can be recycled.
  • May not UV-resistant.

f) GRS Shockpad Backing:

• • Its primary selling point is its exceptional shock absorption. Made from high-density polyethylene foam, it cushions falls and protects joints, making it ideal for play areas, playgrounds, and gyms.
  • A specialized drainage system with channels and perforations, ensuring efficient water dispersal even in heavy rainfall.
  • The foam layer provides some degree of thermal insulation, making the artificial grass surface slightly cooler underfoot in hot climates.
  • The cushioning effect enhances comfort for walking, running, and playing on the artificial grass.
  • The foam layer adds weight to the overall turf system, making installation and handling slightly more challenging.
  • While providing some insulation, the foam might trap heat in extremely hot climates like in UAE, making the surface too warm for comfortable use.

g) Other Plastic Materials:

Some backings might incorporate recycled plastic blends or specific plastic components.

Specialized Solutions: PU Backings, PRT Backings, SBR Backings

In addition to the standard backing types, advancements in material technology have led to the development of specialized backings that cater to specific needs:

1. PU Backings:

• • Polyurethane (PU) backings offer superior durability, UV resistance, and resilience to extreme weather conditions.
  • They are often used in high-performance sports fields and commercial applications.
  • Used as secondary backing for enhanced durability and water resistance

2. PRT Backings:

• • Polyethylene-reinforced Thermoplastic (PRT) backings provide exceptional dimensional stability, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and installations where minimizing wrinkles and ripples is essential.
  • They also offer excellent drainage and are often used in pet-friendly applications.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Features and Considerations

While the primary types cater to the essential needs, the world of artificial grass backing offers innovative features to address specific requirements:

• PU vs. Latex Backing: The secondary backing material matters. Polyurethane (PU) backing is generally more durable and UV-resistant than latex backing, but also pricier. Choose wisely based on budget and weather conditions.
• PU Foamed Turf: A luxurious upgrade, incorporating a layer of high-density polyurethane foam between the fibers and backing. Provides superior shock absorption, drainage, and sound insulation, but comes at a higher cost and weight.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Backing:

When selecting the ideal backing for your artificial grass project, consider the following factors:

• Drainage requirements: How much rainfall do you receive? Do you have pets?
• Traffic levels: Will the turf be used for play, leisure, or heavy foot traffic?
• Budget: What are you willing to invest in the long run?
• Climate: Do you live in a hot or cold climate?
• Desired features: Do you prioritize specific qualities like superior drainage, shock absorption, or enhanced durability?

Question yourself and consider before buying your grass. If you need any help, please contact us. For years to come, your turf installation will be lusciously green and you will be just as happy as day one. At Green Grass Store , you can buy all of the type synthetic turf above mentioned artificial grass backing. We back up all of our products provided by our manufacturer, our synthetic grass warehouse. Give us a call today at +971 56 8787 981 and let’s talk about how we can make your lawn green and beautiful again.