Artificial Turf Infill: Types, Purpose and How Much to Use
Artificial turf infill is the material that fills the spaces between the synthetic grass blades. It gives the turf system stability, support and cushioning, and it has a lot to do with how the turf performs, how long it lasts and how safe it is to play on. Here’s a closer look.
What infill does
1. Stabilization: Infill anchors the turf fibers in place so they don’t shift or come loose during use.
2. Shock absorption: Infill adds cushioning, which reduces the impact on joints during sports and play.
3. Temperature: Some infills help manage surface heat. Chill Fill, for example, holds water in the granule and cools the turf as that water evaporates.
4. Weight distribution: Infill spreads weight evenly across the turf, which prevents wrinkles and dips and keeps the surface smooth and level.
Infill is also ballast. On a lawn that won’t see heavy foot traffic, it keeps wind and normal use from shifting the turf, and it keeps sunlight off the backing.
Types of turf infill
1. Silica sand: Silica sand is one of the most commonly used infills for artificial turf. It adds stability and weight, and it helps drainage by keeping water from pooling on the surface.
2. Rubber granules: Recycled rubber granules, often made from tires, are another common option. Rubber gives strong shock absorption and resilience, which suits sports fields and playgrounds, and it improves traction for running and jumping.
3. Coated sand: Coated sand is silica sand with an antimicrobial or odor-neutralizing coating. It helps control microbial growth and odors, especially in high-traffic areas.
4. Organic infills: Some turf systems use organic infills such as cork granules or coconut fiber, which add natural cushioning and drainage and reduce heat buildup.
5. Mixes: Sometimes a combination of infills is used to balance shock absorption, stability and temperature.
The infills we stock
| Infill | What it does | Good for | What we carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silica sand | Weighs the turf down and holds the blades upright | Most landscape lawns | #16, #30 and #60 grades in 50 lb and 100 lb bags |
| Wonder Fill and Camo Fill | Sand with an antimicrobial coating that helps control bacteria and odor | Lawns, putting greens and playgrounds | 50 lb bags |
| Zeolite and Zeodorizer | Natural mineral that traps and neutralizes pet urine odor | Dog runs and pet areas | Zeolite 50 lb, Zeodorizer 40 lb |
| Chill Fill | Holds water in the granule and cools the surface as it evaporates; needs water daily | Playgrounds, sports fields and hot contact areas | 50 lb bags |
How much infill to use
For a lawn that won’t see heavy foot traffic, 1 to 2 pounds of infill per square foot is typically enough. At that rate a 1,000 square foot lawn takes 1,000 to 2,000 pounds, or 20 to 40 bags at 50 lb. Pet areas, putting greens and play areas call for a different infill, so tell us the job when you ask for a quote.
Which infill for which job
- Pet areas: Zeolite or Zeodorizer to trap urine odor, paired with Alpha Pet turf, which can drain double what a standard turf does.
- Hot sites and play areas: Chill Fill, which cools the surface as the water it holds evaporates.
- Lawns, putting greens and playgrounds: Wonder Fill or Camo Fill where you want an antimicrobial coating, or plain silica sand.
Spreading and topping up infill
Spread infill evenly across the turf with a drop spreader or a power broom so it works down into the fibers. After that, brush or rake the turf now and then so the infill doesn’t compact, and top it up when it thins so the turf keeps performing.
For the full install sequence, see how to install artificial turf, step by step.
For contractor pricing or free samples, call or visit our Pomona, CA or Garland, TX warehouse.
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