IIC and STC are two of the most important acoustic ratings used in commercial flooring projects. Learn how they affect noise control, workplace comfort, and building performance in Singapore.
Learn More
Material Structure of Artificial Grass Explained for Singapore Projects
Artificial grass that fades, flattens, sheds, or comes apart within two years almost never fails only at the visible green surface. In many cases, the real problem is hidden inside the material structure: the fibre composition, backing system, SBR coating, drainage perforations, density, or infill design.
Two artificial grass products can look almost identical on a small sample board but perform very differently after installation. In Singapore’s strong sunlight, heavy rainfall, rooftop heat, and humid conditions, the hidden structure determines whether the grass lasts only a short time or performs reliably for years.
This guide explains the material structure of artificial grass and which specifications architects, landscape designers, contractors, facility managers, and property owners should check before selecting artificial grass for commercial, childcare, rooftop, hospitality, or outdoor projects.
Quick Recommendation
- Outdoor areas exposed to sun: Choose UV-stabilised PE fibre to reduce fading.
- High-traffic spaces: Prioritise higher density and strong backing construction.
- Rooftops and balconies: Check perforated backing and drainage performance.
- Childcare and school areas: Consider comfort, resilience, drainage, and safety requirements.
- Commercial landscapes: Review fibre type, density, pile height, and backing quality together.
- Before buying: Do not choose artificial grass based only on colour and pile height.
The Main Layers of Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is a multi-layer flooring and landscape surface system. Each layer contributes to appearance, drainage, durability, comfort, and long-term performance.
The main layers normally include the visible pile fibre, thatch layer, primary backing, secondary backing or coating, drainage perforations, and optional infill.
| Layer | Typical Material | Main Function |
|---|---|---|
| Pile Fibre | PE / PP blend | Creates the visible grass blades and surface feel |
| Thatch Layer | Curled PP fibre | Adds support and natural appearance |
| Primary Backing | Woven PP | Holds tufted fibres in position |
| Secondary Backing | SBR or PU coating | Locks fibres into the backing system |
| Drainage Perforations | Open backing holes | Allows water to drain through the turf |
| Infill | Sand or rubber granules | Adds weight, support, and resilience where required |
Pile Fibre: PE vs PP
The pile fibre is the visible grass blade that people see and touch. It affects appearance, softness, resilience, and colour stability.
Polyethylene, or PE, is commonly used for softer and more natural-feeling grass blades. Polypropylene, or PP, is often used where stiffer support or curled thatch is required.
Many artificial grass products use a blend of PE and PP to balance comfort, strength, and appearance.
Why UV Stabilisation Matters in Singapore
For outdoor artificial grass in Singapore, UV stabilisation is one of the most important specifications.
Artificial grass installed on rooftops, balconies, terraces, childcare outdoor play areas, and exposed landscapes receives strong sunlight throughout the year.
Without UV-stabilised fibre, the grass may fade quickly, lose strength, and appear old within a short period. UV-stabilised fibres help the product retain colour and surface integrity under direct sun exposure.
Density: Why More Fibres Usually Mean Better Durability
Density refers to the amount of fibre or stitches within a given area.
Higher-density artificial grass generally resists flattening better because there are more fibres supporting the surface. This is especially important in high-traffic areas where people walk, play, or move furniture across the turf regularly.
A tall grass with low density can look impressive on a small sample but flatten quickly in real use.
Pile Height vs Density
Pile height affects the look and feel of artificial grass, but taller is not automatically better.
For landscape comfort, taller pile height can create a softer and more natural appearance. However, if the density is too low, tall fibres may collapse under traffic.
| Specification | What It Affects | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Pile Height | Appearance and softness | Assuming taller always means better |
| Density | Durability and resistance to flattening | Ignoring stitch count or fibre density |
| Backing Quality | Tuft lock and long-term stability | Checking only the top surface |
| Drainage Rate | Water movement after rain | Ignoring rooftop or balcony drainage |
Primary Backing
The primary backing is the woven base layer into which artificial grass fibres are tufted.
This layer holds the fibres in position before the secondary backing or coating is applied.
A strong primary backing contributes to dimensional stability and helps the artificial grass maintain shape during installation and use.
Secondary Backing and SBR Coating
The secondary backing is one of the most important hidden parts of artificial grass.
After the fibres are tufted through the primary backing, a coating is applied to the underside to lock the fibres in place. SBR, or styrene-butadiene rubber, is commonly used for this purpose.
A good SBR backing improves tuft lock strength, reduces fibre shedding, supports flexibility, and helps the artificial grass remain stable over time.
Weak backing or poor coating quality can cause fibres to loosen, edges to weaken, and the material to deteriorate faster under traffic and weather exposure.
Drainage Perforations
Drainage is critical for artificial grass in Singapore because of frequent heavy rainfall.
Artificial grass systems normally include perforations in the backing to allow water to pass through. However, drainage performance also depends on the substrate below the turf.
For rooftops, balconies, terraces, poolside areas, and childcare outdoor areas, drainage design should be reviewed before installation.
Infill: Is It Always Required?
Infill is sometimes added between artificial grass fibres to improve weight, blade support, and resilience.
Common infill materials include silica sand or rubber granules, depending on the application.
Not every artificial grass project requires infill. Some landscape and decorative products are designed to perform without it, while sports and high-use systems may require infill for better performance.
Artificial Grass Structure at a Glance
| Component | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre Type | PE / PP blend | Affects softness, resilience, and appearance |
| UV Stabilisation | Outdoor suitability | Reduces fading under Singapore sun |
| Pile Height | 20mm, 30mm, or other options | Affects appearance and feel |
| Density | Stitches per square metre | Affects flattening resistance |
| Secondary Backing | SBR or PU coating | Affects tuft lock and durability |
| Drainage | Perforations and substrate drainage | Prevents water ponding |
Trenco Artificial Grass Structure Specifications
| Specification | Natural Grass 02 | Luxury Grass 02 |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre | 65% PE + 35% PP | 65% PE + 35% PP |
| Pile Height | 30mm | 20mm |
| Density | 18,900/m² | 16,800/m² |
| Total Weight | 2,005g/m² | 1,720g/m² |
| Secondary Backing | SBR | SBR |
| Roll Width | 2.00m | 2.00m |
| Warranty | 3 Years | 3 Years |
What We See in Singapore Projects
The most common artificial grass failure we see in Singapore is fibre fading caused by poor UV stabilisation. The product looks attractive during installation but fades after prolonged exposure to direct sun.
Another common issue is selecting grass based only on pile height and colour. A tall, low-density product can look lush on a small sample but flatten quickly under regular foot traffic.
Drainage is also frequently underestimated. On rooftops and balconies, artificial grass must work together with the underlying slope and drainage outlets. A good turf product cannot fix a poorly draining substrate by itself.
Project Reference: Childcare @ Atra at Redhill
Childcare environments require artificial grass systems that support comfort, safety, drainage, and durability.
For projects similar to Childcare @ Atra at Redhill, fibre quality, density, backing strength, and maintenance suitability should all be considered before product selection.
Project Reference: The Float @ Marina Bay
Large exposed outdoor environments require materials that can withstand sunlight, rainfall, and continuous use.
For projects similar to The Float @ Marina Bay, artificial grass structure must be reviewed beyond surface appearance to ensure long-term performance.
How to Choose Artificial Grass by Structure
- Check whether the fibre is UV-stabilised.
- Compare density, not just pile height.
- Review fibre composition, such as PE and PP ratios.
- Confirm the backing type and coating quality.
- Check drainage perforations and substrate drainage.
- Confirm whether infill is required for the application.
- Match product structure to the real site condition.
Common Specification Mistakes
- Choosing by colour only.
- Assuming taller pile means better quality.
- Ignoring density and stitch count.
- Not checking UV stabilisation.
- Ignoring backing quality.
- Forgetting drainage requirements on rooftops and balconies.
- Selecting decorative grass for high-traffic areas.
Related Flooring Resources
For installation guidance, read our Professional Artificial Grass Installation Guide.
For drainage planning, see our Drainage System for Artificial Grass Installation guide.
Explore our Artificial Grass Carpet Singapore product.
Learn more about our Flooring Contractor Singapore services and Office Flooring Singapore solutions.
Request pricing through our Flooring Quotation Singapore page.
View our Singapore Projects portfolio for completed flooring references.
FAQ
What is artificial grass made of?
Artificial grass is made from pile fibres, primary backing, secondary backing or coating, drainage perforations, and sometimes infill. PE and PP fibres are commonly used.
Why does artificial grass fade in Singapore?
Fading usually occurs when fibres are not properly UV-stabilised. Singapore’s strong sunlight can quickly affect low-quality outdoor turf.
What is SBR backing in artificial grass?
SBR backing is a rubber coating applied to the underside of artificial grass to lock the fibres into place and improve durability.
Is pile height more important than density?
No. Pile height affects appearance, but density often has a greater impact on durability and resistance to flattening.
Does artificial grass need drainage holes?
Yes. Drainage perforations help water pass through the turf, but the substrate below must also drain properly.
Is infill required for artificial grass?
Not always. Some products are designed without infill, while sports or high-use installations may require sand or rubber infill for support.
Need Help Choosing Artificial Grass for Singapore Conditions?
Artificial grass should be selected based on material structure, not just colour, pile height, or price. Fibre quality, UV stability, density, backing, and drainage all affect long-term performance.
Request a free consultation and quotation from ANB Furnishing. Our team can help you select suitable artificial grass for rooftops, balconies, childcare centres, schools, hospitality spaces, landscape areas, and commercial outdoor projects in Singapore.
