If you have questions about what artificial grass infill is and how it enhances the look and feel of synthetic lawns, here is what you need to know.
Grass infill is a necessary component of both synthetic residential lawns and athletic fields. It supports the blade fibers and helps them stand up even after pressure has been applied. Without infill, artificial grass would flatten out quickly and succumb to the damage of foot traffic and Arizona’s relentless heat.
What Is Infill for Artificial Grass?
Infill refers to any material spread over the surface of synthetic turf to support the grass blades, assist with drainage, and provide cushioning, in effect mimicking the role of soil under natural grass. Virtually any durable, non-toxic substance can be used as infill, but the most common in residential and commercial applications in the Phoenix area are slag, silica sand, Durafill, and specialized rubbers such as EPDM and TPE.
Artificial Turf Infill Serves Multiple Purposes
Infill is placed between the fibers of artificial grass to help maintain the turf’s appearance and give it a more natural feel underfoot. Its purpose is to mimic the impact absorption of soil under real grass, so walking across your lawn feels like walking on the real thing.
Infill also weighs down the artificial turf, protecting it from ripples, buckles, and wrinkles caused by continuous movement and the thermal expansion that comes with Phoenix summers. It improves water drainage so you won’t have standing water after a monsoon storm or an irrigation cycle.
If you’re installing artificial grass in a high-traffic area (a backyard with kids, a dog run, or a commercial courtyard), choosing the right infill for the job matters considerably.
Where Is Infill Applied in the Installation Process?
Whether it’s a commercial or residential application, infill is the final step. Once the property is prepped, the turf has been laid, and all seams are fitted, our technicians use a power brush to stand the grass blades upright so the infill can be applied evenly. After it’s been distributed, we verify it’s holding the turf down properly. Then a final brush-through forces the infill to the base of the grass fibers, ensuring it’s well-settled and primed for long-term performance.
Commonly Used Artificial Turf Infill Options
Here is a look at the infill materials we use when installing artificial grass in the Phoenix metro area.
Slag
Copper slag is an entirely inert, dark grey-black infill product that works well for homes with pets. Its density makes it a better ballast for your turf than standard sand, and its dark color keeps it virtually invisible compared to white silica. You can also source specialty pellets that refresh and disinfect artificial turf while inhibiting bacterial growth. It’s a worthwhile upgrade in Arizona’s heat, where odors can intensify quickly.
Sand
Silica sand is made up of quartz granules eroded by water and wind. It keeps blades upright and improves drainage effectively. The downsides are its tendency to compact over time and its ability to trap odors, which makes it a less ideal choice for pet owners. Sand infill performs well in lower-traffic applications like hillsides, decorative commercial lawns, or areas that don’t see regular use.
EPDM and TPE
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) and TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) are both polymers that hold up exceptionally well in extreme climates. Both are available in natural-looking colors such as green, black, and tan, and both are highly fade-resistant, which matters in an environment where UV exposure is relentless. They are known for consistent, long-term performance and are among the most durable infill options available.
Durafill
Durafill is made from rounded quartz coated in green acrylic, making it non-abrasive and anti-microbial. It doesn’t absorb liquids, which makes it a strong choice for pet owners. Its green coloring helps it blend into grass blades, and it’s frequently used in high-traffic areas like play spaces and dog runs where both performance and appearance matter.
How Much Infill Is Typically Required?
The answer depends on three factors: the type of infill, the type of turf, and the expected amount of foot traffic. A general guideline for residential properties is up to 2 lbs. of infill per square foot, though most home lawns require just enough to reach the base of the thatch fiber. We assess each project individually to determine the right amount.
If you have questions about which infill is right for your project or want to schedule an installation, contact Arizona Luxury Lawns & Putting Greens. We’re available by phone at 480-991-0196.