Artificial Grass Face Stitch Rate: What It Is And Why It Matters

Thanks to the ever growing popularity and demand for artificial grass, synthetic turf manufacturers have their hands full. More and more players are joining the industry, and the result is a wider variety of product in the market.  There are different types of synthetic turf in the market today, with distinct properties and characteristics that set each apart from the rest.

With so many available options, making a choice can be quite overwhelming, especially if you have no real understanding of what to look out for when doing the selection.  One of the most important factors to consider when choosing which type of artificial grass is right for your particular project is the stitch rate.

About Stitch Rate

To most people, the term “face weight” is a little jargonic and they haven’t the slightest idea about what it means. It’s for that reason that we will start by explaining the concept of face weight in the simplest of terms.

The stitch rate of artificial grass is simply how much the yarn, which includes the thatch and grass blades, in one square yard of the turf weighs.  The stitch rate does not include the backing layer or infill material and is therefore a measure of just the amount of fibre material in that one square metre of turf.

Why Does It Matter?

The stitch rate of synthetic grass is an indication of the density of the turf.  A denser turf will look and feel more like natural grass than other grass with a lower face weight.  Grass with a high stitch rate will look more lush and feel soft on the underfoot making it perfect for kids’ and pets’ play areas.

Away from the look and feel of the grass, the face weight will also have a significant effect on the durability of the artificial grass.  The denser the synthetic turf, the sturdier it is, and the better it will be able to stand up to the expected wear and tear from the natural ageing process and being subjected to constant foot traffic. It therefore goes without saying that if your specific application will be experiencing heavy traffic, synthetic grass with a higher stitch rate, typically, in the 50-90 ounces per square yard range is the best option for you.

A higher stitch rate means a lot more fibre material went into the production of the synthetic turf. This will, without doubt, have an effect on the price of the grass because the price has to cover the material costs. Grasses that are more densely tufted are considered to be of higher quality, thanks to the attributes mentioned above, and will therefore be a little pricier.  Because artificial grass is a long-term investment and you can be sure of enjoying the benefits of buying a denser turf, it makes economic sense to buy artificial grass with a higher face weight, instead of buying a less dense one at a cheaper price, which won’t last as long.

The Bottom-line

As highlighted, the stitch rate of artificial grass is very significant and you should be careful not to mistake it with the gross weight. That said, when comparing the stitch rate of different artificial grass, you will need to keep in mind your budget and the intended application of the grass, that is, where the grass will be installed and how it will be used.

Our experts at Perth Artificial Grass will gladly discuss your options with you and find an artificial grass with a stitch rate that is just right for your specific application and budget. Talk to us about where the grass will be installed and how that area will be used, and if possible, the expected amount of traffic, and we will help you in selecting a synthetic grass with the right density.