Clear communication prevents costly errors. Use this glossary as a reference when writing tenders, reviewing quotes, and speaking with suppliers like SnailTurf.
A. Material & Construction Terms
Backing: The layered fabric (usually PP) onto which yarn is tufted. Primary backing holds the tufts; secondary backing adds stability and often contains latex or polyurethane coating.
Denier: The weight in grams of 9,000 meters of yarn. A measure of filament thickness. Higher denier = thicker, more durable filament.
Face Weight: The total weight of yarn per square yard/meter (oz/yd² or g/m²). A key indicator of material amount and quality.
Gauge: The distance between rows of tufts, measured in inches or millimeters. A smaller gauge means rows are closer together, increasing density.
Monofilament: A single, continuous extruded synthetic fiber. (See also: Fibrillated).
Pile Height: The length of the yarn blades from the backing tip to the tip, measured in millimeters or inches.
Thatch: A layer of curled, usually brown yarn near the base that mimics dead organic matter, adding realism and cushioning.
Tuft Bind: The force required to pull a tuft of yarn from the backing. A critical measure of structural integrity.
B. Performance & Testing Terms
ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials. Develops key performance standards.
Critical Fall Height (CFH): The maximum height from which a life-threatening head injury is not expected to occur from a fall onto a surface. Tested per ASTM F1292.
Drainage Rate: The rate at which water passes through the turf system, measured in inches per hour. Crucial for sports and landscaping.
FIFA Quality Pro/Quality: The highest international certification for football turf, testing ball roll, shock absorption, etc.
G-Max: A measure of shock attenuation. A lower G-max value indicates a softer, more shock-absorbent surface.
UV Stability: The resistance of yarn to degradation and color fade caused by ultraviolet sunlight.
C. Installation & System Terms
Aggregate Base: The compacted layer of crushed stone or gravel that forms the foundation for installation.
Infill: Granular material (sand, rubber, TPE) brushed into the pile to support fibers, provide cushioning, and add weight.
Seam: The joint where two rolls of turf are joined, typically with seaming tape and adhesive.
Sub-Base: The prepared ground below the aggregate base, often stabilized and graded.
D. Commercial Terms
Lifecycle Cost: The total cost of ownership over the product's life, including purchase, installation, maintenance, and removal.
Pro-rata Warranty: A warranty where the supplier’s liability decreases linearly over the warranty period.
Turnkey Project: A project where a single supplier is responsible for providing all materials and installation, delivering a complete, ready-to-use system.
Empower Your Procurement Team.
Bookmark this page and share it with your team. For any term not listed here, the expert team at SnailTurf is always ready to provide clear, professional explanations. Build your knowledge base with us at www.snailturf.com.
