Pile height shapes almost everything about how artificial grass looks and feels. It affects the softness, resilience, maintenance and how well the lawn handles the way you use it day to day. Understanding the difference makes choosing the right grass far simpler, especially if you’re comparing several depths.
Pile height is simply the length of each fibre from the backing to the tip. Shorter fibres stay upright with little effort. Medium fibres create a natural garden look. Longer fibres give the soft cushioned feel many people like for relaxing or decorative areas. Each height has its place, so the best option depends on how your space works.
Shorter Pile For Busy, Practical Spaces
Short pile grass sits around twenty to thirty millimetres. The fibres are compact, which helps them stay upright even when the lawn is used often. It suits families, dog owners and anyone who wants a clean, tidy finish without much brushing.
If you prefer this look, the 20mm artificial grass range gives a neat, low profile that works well in front gardens, balconies and busy areas. These shorter styles drain quickly, which is helpful in wetter spots.
Medium Pile For A Natural Everyday Lawn
Medium pile runs between thirty and thirty five millimetres. This is the most popular depth because it balances softness with easy maintenance. It gives that familiar garden feel and performs well in spaces where people walk, play or sit.
If you want an everyday finish that still feels comfortable, our 30mm artificial grass selection is a good starting point. For a slightly fuller look, the 35mm artificial grass range offers a heavier fibre that adds more movement and natural depth.
Longer Pile For Softness & Depth
Long pile artificial grass is usually thirty five millimetres and above. It feels comfortable and creates a more luxurious experience. This depth is often chosen for seating areas, decorative lawns and places where you want a soft, cushioned feel.
For this style, you can explore 40mm artificial grass or 50mm artificial grass, both ideal for larger spaces where the longer fibres have room to move naturally.
Why Height Doesn’t Tell The Full Story
Two grasses with the same pile height can behave very differently. Fibre density, yarn quality, backing material and drainage all influence how long the lawn stays upright and how realistic it looks. That’s why a well-made thirty five millimetre product can out-perform a cheaper forty millimetre option.
Materials also matter. Softer polyethylene fibres are common for residential gardens because they feel pleasant underfoot, while polypropylene helps support the structure and adds resilience.
Choosing A Height That Fits Your Space
Think first about how your lawn will be used.
- Shorter pile (20 to 30 mm) works well for pets, children or busy areas.
- Medium pile (30 to 35 mm) gives a natural look for most gardens and keeps upkeep simple.
- Longer pile (35 to 50 mm) is ideal if comfort and appearance are your priority.
Small areas often look neater with short or medium pile, while larger lawns tend to suit medium or longer depths because the additional movement creates a more realistic finish.
Looking After Different Pile Heights
The care your artificial grass needs depends on your chosen pile height:
- Short pile needs minimal brushing
- Medium pile benefits from occasional brushing to lift the fibres
- Long pile may require more frequent brushing to keep the softness and depth
Rinsing now and then helps remove dirt, pollen and general garden debris.
Bringing Your Project Together
Choosing the right artificial grass is easier when you know what each option can bring to your space. Our classic, premium, luxury artificial grass styles each offer their own look and feel, while our pet friendly and sports artificial grass ranges give you practical choice for busy homes and activity areas. These sit neatly alongside our composite products, which help you shape a more durable outdoor layout, as well as our artificial walls and plants that add colour and structure with little upkeep.
We also offer free samples so you can compare textures and colour before you decide, along with friendly customer service. Get in touch with us today on 01772 629654, email us at [email protected] or fill in our online contact form.
