Ever wondered what your artificial lawn is actually made of? For some, it’s simple curiosity. For others, it’s about checking quality, durability, or even environmental impact. The short answer is that modern artificial grass is made from synthetic polymers – usually polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon – stitched into a strong backing layer and treated with UV stabilisers. But there’s much more to it than that.
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⚡ Quick Answer: What Artificial Grass Is Made Of
Artificial grass is made from:
- Polyethylene (PE) – soft, realistic fibres for the main blades
- Polypropylene (PP) – used for the “thatch” or support fibres
- Nylon (PA) – extremely durable, used in some sports or premium turfs
- Backing layers – woven fabric plus latex or polyurethane coating
- UV stabilisers & additives – to protect against fading and cracking
Optional infill materials (sand, rubber, or alternatives) are added for stability, cushioning, and weight.
🧵 Fibre Materials Explained
Not all artificial grass fibres are the same. The type of polymer used affects how the turf looks, feels, and lasts:
- Polyethylene (PE): The most popular fibre for domestic lawns. Soft to the touch, UV-stable, and natural in appearance.
- Polypropylene (PP): Cheaper but less resilient. Often used for the curly “thatch” layer beneath the blades to add body.
- Nylon (Polyamide, PA): The toughest of the three. Heat- and wear-resistant, but more expensive. Common in sports pitches and heavy-use areas.
🪡 The Backing & Layers
Fibres alone won’t make a lawn. They need a stable foundation:
- Primary backing: A woven fabric that holds the fibres in place after tufting.
- Secondary backing: Usually latex or polyurethane, applied to lock the fibres securely.
- Drainage holes: Punched into the backing so rainwater passes through to the sub-base.
🏭 How Artificial Grass Is Manufactured
The process is surprisingly similar to carpet-making. Here’s a simplified step-by-step overview:
- Plastic pellets are melted and extruded into yarn fibres.
- The yarn is cooled, stretched, and wound onto spools.
- Fibres are tufted into the primary backing using large stitching machines.
- The secondary backing (latex or PU) is applied and cured to hold everything in place.
- Drainage holes are punched and the grass is rolled for shipping.
🌍 Environmental Impact & Recycling
Artificial grass is made from plastics, so questions about sustainability are valid. Key points:
- Longevity: A good lawn lasts 10–15 years, reducing the need for replacement.
- Trade-offs: While it avoids fertiliser, watering, and mowing, end-of-life disposal remains a challenge.
- Recycling: New technologies can now separate fibres, backing, and infill for recycling, though not all councils offer it yet.
- Safer choices: Choosing PU-backed, lead-free, and non-toxic products reduces long-term impact.
💎 What Makes Premium Grass Different?
Not all artificial turf is equal. Premium products stand out for several reasons:
- UV stabilisers: Prevent fading in sunlight.
- Thatch layer: Adds realism and spring-back underfoot.
- PU backing: Lasts longer than latex, especially in wet conditions.
- Fibre shape & density: C-shaped, S-shaped, or diamond fibres improve resilience and natural look.
Curious about choosing the right turf? Read our Best Value Artificial Grass UK guide.
⏳ How Long Does Artificial Grass Last?
A well-made and properly installed artificial lawn will typically last 10–15 years. Premium products with UV stabilisers, PU backing, and dense fibres can go even longer. The key factors that shorten lifespan are poor installation, cheap adhesives, or using turf not designed for heavy use.
❓ FAQs
Still got questions about what artificial grass is made of? You’re not alone. Here are the answers to the most common things people ask us about materials, safety, and sustainability.
What type of plastic is artificial grass made of?
Most artificial grass is made from polyethylene and polypropylene, with nylon used for some heavy-duty sports or commercial surfaces.
Is artificial grass toxic?
No – modern turf is non-toxic and safe for children and pets. Older versions sometimes contained heavy metals, but these are no longer used in UK-supplied products.
Does artificial grass contain rubber?
Domestic lawns usually don’t. Rubber infill is common in sports pitches, but home installations mostly use sand or no infill at all.
Can artificial grass be recycled?
Yes, although options are limited. Specialist facilities can separate fibres, backing, and infill for reuse. More recycling solutions are expected as demand grows.
What is under artificial grass?
Beneath the turf sits a compacted sub-base (MOT Type 1 and/or sharp sand) plus a weed membrane for drainage and stability. Learn more in our What to Put Under Artificial Grass guide.
Is nylon grass better than polyethylene?
Nylon is tougher and more resilient, but more expensive and less soft underfoot. Polyethylene strikes the best balance for most gardens.
Thinking About Artificial Grass?
Understanding what goes into artificial grass helps you choose a product that looks great and lasts. At As Good As Grass, we only install UV-stable, non-toxic turf that’s safe for families, pets, and schools.
👉 Request a Free Survey Today or call 0161 207 3007 to speak to our team.
