Glossary of Turf Terms Every Installer Should Know
Why Knowing the Language Matters
Every trade has its own technical language — and synthetic turf is no different. Whether you’re bidding a job, talking with architects, or training new crew members, understanding the right terms helps you communicate clearly, specify accurately, and install efficiently.
This glossary from Turf Haus breaks down the most common (and most misunderstood) turf terms used in professional installation, design, and manufacturing. Bookmark it, share it, and keep your crew speaking the same language on every job.
A–E
Backing
The layer of material that the turf fibers (yarn) are tufted into. Turf Haus uses NatureFlow™ backing, a 100% permeable, recyclable thermoplastic—unlike traditional polyurethane or latex backings that are heavy and non-recyclable.
Base Material
The compacted aggregate layer beneath the turf, usually made of M10 crush-and-run or #89 stone, providing stability and drainage.
Blade (Yarn Fiber)
The upright “grass” filaments made from polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP). Different shapes (flat, C-shaped, diamond, S-blade) affect look, resilience, and light reflection.
Compaction
The process of compressing base material to create a stable, level foundation. Proper compaction prevents settling and maintains drainage.
Crush and Run
A mix of crushed stone and stone dust that compacts tightly for a smooth base surface. Often referred to by local gradation such as M10.
F–J
Face Weight
Measured in ounces per square yard, this indicates the density of turf fiber. Heavier face weight = thicker turf.
Fringe Turf
The slightly taller turf installed around a putting green to simulate rough grass and frame the playing surface. This turf is not quite as tall of a pile as traditional grass turfs and are taller than the putting surface.
Gauge
The spacing between tuft rows (e.g., 3/8", 5/8"). A tighter gauge means denser turf.
Infill
Granular material brushed into the turf to help blades stand upright, add ballast, and promote drainage.
Turf Haus recommends Wonderfill, a coated antimicrobial silica infill available in green, white, and premium Plus formulations.
Infill Depth
The vertical height of infill applied—varies by turf type (typically ¼–1").
K–O
Knit-Through
The process by which synthetic fibers are tufted (stitched) into the backing during manufacturing.
Latex Backing
A traditional secondary coating that locks fibers in place but adds weight and limits recyclability. Turf Haus does not use latex in any product.
Lineal Foot
A measure of turf roll length (15 feet wide × desired linear feet = square footage). Used for estimating and ordering.
Monomaterial Construction
A turf system made primarily from a single polymer family, allowing for full recyclability—key to NatureFlow™’s circular design.
Non-Directional Turf
Turf manufactured without a visible grain or blade direction, such as certain putting green surfaces.
P–T
Permeability
The rate at which water drains through turf backing, measured in inches per hour. NatureFlow™ drains over 1,000 in/hr, compared to ~50 in/hr for polyurethane-backed turf.
Pile Height
The length of the turf blades, measured from the base to the tip.
1.5"–2" typical for lawns
1"–1.25" for pet turf
⅜"–¾" for putting greens
Polyurethane (PU)
A traditional, non-recyclable binder used to lock tufted fibers in place. Turf Haus replaces this with thermoplastic bonding for lighter, greener turf.
Seam Tape
A specialized fabric used to join two turf pieces with adhesive for a clean, strong seam.
Shock Pad
Optional underlayment providing cushion and impact absorption—commonly used for playgrounds or sports fields.
Stitch Rate
The number of stitches per 3 inches; higher stitch rates increase density and appearance quality.
Tuft Bind
The amount of force (in pounds) required to pull a tuft from the backing. Turf Haus products exceed 9 lbs tuft bind, indicating superior fiber retention.
U–Z
UV Stabilizer
Additive in turf fibers that prevents fading and brittleness from sun exposure, extending product life.
Weep Holes
Small perforations in older turf backings to aid drainage. NatureFlow™ eliminates the need for these with its fully permeable open-flow design.
Wonderfill
A coated silica infill developed for professional turf applications—antimicrobial, anti-static, heat-resistant, and compatible with all Turf Haus systems.
Measurement & Ordering Cheat Sheet
| Term | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Roll Width | Standard manufactured width of turf roll | 15 ft |
| Linear Foot | Length cut from a roll; used for ordering | 15 ft × 40 ft = 600 sq ft |
| Square Foot | Total area measurement (Length × Width) | 20 ft × 30 ft = 600 sq ft |
| Overage | Extra turf ordered for trimming, seaming, and waste | +5–10% recommended |
| Seam Allowance | Additional width included for trimming at seams | 2–3 inches per seam |
