What is Hole Punched Turf (a.k.a Perforated)?

Hole-punched turf backing is a type of artificial turf backing that has been specifically designed to facilitate drainage. This backing style features a series of holes that are punched through the turf backing every 4” to 6”. These holes allow water and other liquids to drain through the turf, into the sub-base material, and then into the native soil below.

The size and spacing of the holes in the backing are carefully calculated to optimize drainage while maintaining the structural integrity and durability of the turf. Hole-punched backing has been the industry standard turf backing for decades. It’s a time-tested and reliable form of turf drainage that provides sufficient drainage for most residential and commercial applications.

While not as permeable as fully permeable (flow-through) backings, hole-punched turf backings offer a cost-effective solution for artificial turf installations. It provides a balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for residential lawns, commercial landscapes, and other areas where efficient drainage is required but extreme permeability is not necessary.

Hole-Punched Turf Backing

How Does Hole-Punched Turf Facilitate Drainage?

The hole-punched backing is only one part of the overall system that is artificial grass. Each component within the system plays an important role in facilitating drainage. The first point of contact for water will be the turf fibers, which are kept upright by the infill material. The water runs down the fibers and percolates through the infill, making its way to the turf backing. A properly installed sub-base will have a slight grade, and as water gathers on the surface of the turf backing it will begin to move along this gradient until it reaches a drainage hole.

Water passes through the thousands of drainage holes across the turf’s backing and reaches the compacted sub-base below. Consisting of crushed rock and gravel, the sub-base is solid, yet highly permeable. This permeability allows water to percolate through the sub base material and into the native soil below. Some applications like rooftops, decks, patios, etc. that are installed on a concrete or similarly solid surface utilize drainage tiles to create space for liquids to drain.

Hole-punched turf backing is a practical solution for areas that require efficient water drainage but may not need the level of permeability provided by more advanced backing systems like fully-permeable (flow-through) backings. It offers a balance between drainage efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Hole Punch Turf Backing

What Applications Should You Use Hole-Punched Turf On?

Hole-punched turf is well-suited for a variety of applications where moderate drainage is required, making it a versatile choice for both residential and commercial settings. This type of turf is particularly beneficial in areas where there is occasional to moderate rainfall or in settings where there is a need for occasional washing or cleaning of the turf surface.

Residential Landscaping: For homeowners looking for a low-maintenance lawn solution, hole-punched turf offers an effective drainage system that handles rainwater efficiently, keeping gardens and backyards dry and usable.

Balconies and Rooftop Gardens: In urban settings, where artificial turf is used to create green spaces on balconies or rooftops, hole-punched turf can provide adequate drainage, preventing water accumulation and ensuring the structural integrity of the underlying area.

Commercial Spaces: For businesses or public spaces that want the aesthetic appeal of green turf without intensive maintenance, hole-punched turf can offer the necessary drainage to keep the area looking fresh and clean.

If you’re unsure about what type of backing to choose for your turf installation project, we suggest speaking with a local turf installer or turf supplier. They will have hands-on experience with the different types of drainage and should know what the turf manufacturer recommends for their products.

What Are The Benefits of Hole-Punch Drainage?

Hole-punched turf drainage offers several benefits that make it a practical choice for many artificial turf applications. The primary advantage of this system is its proven durability and reliability. Overall, hole-punched turf drainage systems strike a balance between functionality, affordability, and simplicity, making them a popular choice in a range of turf installation projects.

Durable & Long-Lasting:

Hole punched turf backings have been the industry standard for decades, making it the most durable and reliable form of artificial turf drainage.

Tried & True:

Hole punched backings have withstood decades of testing and still remains the standard backing found on most artificial turf products.

Efficient & Effective:

The drainage rate of hole punched turf backings is approximately 30 inches of water per hour, which is more than sufficient for the majority of turf installations.

Versatility:

It strikes a good balance between performance and cost, making it suitable for a broad range of applications where extreme drainage capabilities are not a critical requirement.

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