How Much Does Artificial Turf Weigh? Key Specs, Examples & Expert Tips

Artificial turf typically weighs 2–5 kg/m² (0.4–1.0 lb/ft²) before infill. With sand or rubber infill, total weight can reach 5–25+ kg/m² — or even more for sports fields.

But turf weight isn’t just a number. It affects installation, transport, durability, and even whether your rooftop or balcony can support it.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What makes up turf weight
  
• Typical weights by use case
  
• Key factors that influence weight
  
• How to calculate total system weight
  
• When (and how) to use weight as a quality check

Let’s dig in.

How much does artificial turf weigh per square meter?

Most artificial turf weighs between 2–5 kg/m² without infill. With infill included, the total weight can reach 5–25+ kg/m², depending on the application.

How much weight does infill add?

Infill can add 5–25 kg/m² to the system, depending on the type (sand, rubber, coated blends) and depth used. In sports fields, infill often makes up the majority of the total weight.

Deconstructing Turf Weight: Understanding What Makes Artificial Grass Heavy

Turf weight isn’t just a number — it’s made up of several layers that each play a role in performance, durability, and installation logistics. Here’s a quick breakdown of what contributes to the total weight of artificial grass.

1. Face Weight: The Core of Turf Density

Face weight refers to the weight of the turf fibers alone — this includes the blades and thatch, but excludes the backing and infill. It’s typically measured in oz/yd² (imperial) or kg/m² (metric), and ranges from 30–90 oz/yd², or roughly 1.0–3.1 kg/m².

Why it matters:

A higher face weight means more yarn per square meter, resulting in a denser, plusher surface that feels softer underfoot.

It also enhances durability, especially in moderate to high-traffic areas like residential front yards, pet zones, or retail spaces.

Common recommendations:

• 50–70 oz/yd² for homes (balanced softness + strength)

• 70–90 oz/yd² for commercial or high-traffic spaces

Think of face weight as a first indicator of overall turf quality — but not the only one.

2. Backing Weight: The Hidden Structure

Beneath the blades, artificial turf is supported by a multi-layered backing system — usually composed of a primary woven fabric and a secondary coating (like polyurethane or latex). This adds structural integrity, ensuring blades stay upright and seams stay tight.

Heavier backing improves:

• Tuft bind (how firmly fibers are held in place)
  
• Dimensional stability (resistance to stretching, shrinking, or warping)
  
• Seam strength, especially under shifting temperatures or uneven ground
  

However, increased backing weight also means heavier rolls, which can impact transport, handling, and labor requirements.

3. Total Weight: What You Actually Handle On Site

The total (dry) weight of artificial turf is the sum of face weight + backing weight. This is typically how turf is quoted for shipping and installation — usually in kg/m² or by the roll.

Example: A 2 m × 25 m roll (50 m²), with a total dry weight of 3.5 kg/m², weighs approximately 175 kg.

Why it matters:

• Heavier turf rolls may require special handling equipment
  
• They tend to lay flatter, resist wind uplift, and provide better stability on sloped or rooftop installations
  
• It’s also an important number when checking load limits for elevated decks or balconies

4. Infill Weight: The Often Overlooked Load Factor

Infill — such as silica sand, rubber granules, or coated particles — is spread over the turf after installation to add weight, cushion, and support.

• Infill can rival or exceed the weight of the turf itself
  
• It increases impact absorption, helps blades stay upright, and anchors the surface to prevent shifting
  

Typical infill weights:

• 5–15 kg/m² for landscaping lawns
  
• 15–25+ kg/m² for athletic fields and high-impact zones
  

Adding infill significantly changes how turf behaves — and how much structural load it adds. This is critical for rooftop projects, balconies, and commercial zones with specific engineering requirements.

Key Factors That Influence Turf Weight

Not all artificial turf is created equal — and that’s especially true when it comes to weight. Even within the same product size, turf weight can vary significantly based on its materials and construction.

Here are the key factors that directly influence how heavy a turf system will be — and why they matter.

1. Fiber Material (PE, PP, Nylon)

The type of fiber used in artificial grass affects both performance and weight.

• Polyethylene (PE): The most commonly used fiber. Offers a soft, realistic feel and moderate weight — ideal for residential and landscape use.
  
• Polypropylene (PP): A lighter and more affordable material, often used in decorative or low-impact areas. However, it’s less durable under heavy use.
  
• Nylon: The heaviest and most resilient fiber. Highly durable, heat-tolerant, and springy — perfect for sports, playgrounds, or high-traffic commercial zones.
  

Heavier fiber = denser product = more durability, but also adds to shipping and structural load.

2. Pile Height (Blade Length)

Pile height refers to the length of the turf blades, measured from the backing to the tip.

• Longer blades = more material per square meter = higher face weight and total weight.
  
• Taller piles (40–60 mm) are more lush and natural in appearance, great for landscape applications.
  
• Shorter piles (20–35 mm) are more resilient, easier to clean, and better suited for pets, gyms, and sports use.
  

Pro tip: Choose longer pile for aesthetics, shorter pile for performance and easier maintenance.

3. Stitch Density (Tufts per Area)

Also known as stitch rate, this is the number of stitches or fiber bundles per given unit of surface (e.g., per 10 cm or per square inch).

• Higher density = more yarn per square meter = heavier and more durable turf.
  
• Denser turf resists matting and better distributes pressure from foot traffic or cleats.
  

When comparing products, always check both stitch rate and pile height to understand the true material density.

4. Backing System Type

The turf’s backing provides structural stability, affects drainage, and adds significant weight.

Common types include:

• Single-layer backing: Lightweight, easier to handle, used in budget or temporary installations.
  
• Double-layer or reinforced backing: Adds strength and increases weight, ideal for high-wear areas.
  
• PU (Polyurethane) or Latex coatings: Both add durability; PU is more stable in humid or wet conditions, but heavier than latex.
  

If your turf needs to handle heavy use, slopes, or frequent cleaning, a stronger (and heavier) backing is worth the added weight.

5. Use of Infill Materials

Adding infill — like sand, rubber, or coated blends — significantly increases total system weight.

• Lawns and landscaping may use 5–15 kg/m² of silica sand.
  
• Sports fields and playgrounds can reach 25+ kg/m² with rubber or elastomer infill.
  
• Infill also improves cushioning, drainage, and fiber support.
  

Note: Not all turf types require infill, but if yours does, be sure to include it in your load calculations.

Is Weight a Reliable Indicator of Turf Quality?

Yes — but only to a point. Turf weight, especially face weight, is a strong early signal of product density and durability. Heavier turf typically means more fibers, better footfeel, and longer wear. But weight alone doesn’t equal quality.

To truly assess turf performance, consider these additional factors:

• Backing strength & tuft bind – Keeps fibers secure and seams intact
  
• UV stability & drainage – Essential for outdoor longevity
  
• Fiber resilience – Turf should bounce back after pressure, not stay flat
  
• Pile height & stitch rate – Work with weight to shape feel and appearance
  
• Warranty & test data – Proof of long-term performance
  

In high-traffic areas like dog runs or sports fields, a higher face weight (70+ oz/yd²) combined with durable backing often leads to better long-term results — reducing matting, tearing, and replacement costs.

But turf also needs to look natural and feel right. A good balance of face weight, pile height, and blade design (e.g., C- or W-shaped fibers) enhances both visual realism and comfort.

How Much Should Turf Weigh for Your Project?

From soft residential lawns to high-impact sports fields, the weight can vary drastically depending on fiber density, backing type, and infill requirements.

To help you choose the right product, here’s a breakdown of typical face weight and total weight ranges across common turf applications:

How to Calculate Total Turf Weight (Step-by-Step)

Understanding the total weight of your turf system is essential for shipping, handling, structural load calculations — and even installation crew planning.

Basic Formula: Total Weight = Turf Area × Unit Turf Weight + Infill Weight

Example 1: Without Infill

• 50 m² × 3 kg/m² = 150 kg

Example 2: With Infill

• 50 m² × 3 kg/m² turf + 10 kg/m² infill = 150 + 500 = 650 kg total system weight

For small residential lawns, this might be manageable with hand tools. But for commercial installations or rooftop projects, it can quickly scale into tons of material.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to account for extras like seam tape, shock pads, and underlayments — they add to the load and affect handling.

Why Turf Weight Matters in Real Life

Turf weight isn’t just a number on a spec sheet. It has direct implications on your installation and long-term use.

Transportation & Handling

• Lightweight rolls (under 30 kg) are often manageable by two people.
  
• Heavy rolls (100 kg or more) typically require forklifts, dollies, or extra manpower.

Installation Workflow

• Heavier turf may demand more installers, longer installation time, and special equipment.
  
• Planning your crew and toolset based on roll weight avoids delays and injuries.

Stability & Performance

• Heavier turf stays flatter, resists wind uplift, and settles more securely into base layers.
  
• However, it may also be harder to reposition or adjust once laid.

Structural Load on Rooftops & Balconies

Weight can be a limiting factor on elevated surfaces. Always calculate:

• Total area weight (with infill)
  
• Base material and any underlayers
  
• Maximum load tolerance of the substructure

Checklist: Confirm roll weights, site access (stairs vs. elevator), and whether mechanical lifting is needed before the turf even arrives.

Beyond Weight: What Else You Should Consider

While weight is a great starting point, turf performance depends on many other factors that impact comfort, safety, and longevity — especially for demanding environments.

Factors That Matter (Beyond Weight):

• Blade shape: C-, S-, and W-shaped fibers bounce back better and look more natural.
  
• Cooling technology: Some yarns and infills reflect heat or retain moisture to keep turf cooler in hot climates.
  
• Drainage system: Perforated backing, 3D channels, or fully permeable designs affect how well your turf handles rain or cleaning.
  
• Environmental & health safety: Look for products tested for PFAS, VOC emissions, and recyclability — especially in pet or child-friendly areas.

Weight is important — but so is how the turf looks, behaves, and lasts in your specific environment. Choose a balanced spec that matches real-world needs, not just lab stats.

Does Turf Weight Really Matter?

Absolutely — but it’s only part of the story. Turf weight affects how your grass looks, feels, installs, and lasts. Heavier products often offer better durability and comfort, but true quality also depends on backing strength, drainage, UV resistance, and resilience.

Use weight as a starting point, then evaluate the full system.

Need help choosing the right turf?

At JCturf, we offer expert guidance, accurate weight estimates, and tailored turf solutions for rooftops, homes, pets, and sports fields.

Contact us today to get personalized advice and free samples for your project.