When it comes to artificial turf installation, one of the most overlooked yet essential components is the artificial turf infill. As the backbone of your synthetic surface, infill plays a critical role in turf performance, comfort, and long-term durability. Choosing the right infill can make all the difference if you’re planning a new backyard design, athletic space, or commercial landscape.
Let’s explore the most popular infill types—sand, rubber, and alternative materials—and how they work with artificial grass to create a functional and visually appealing space.
Sand Infill: A Versatile Classic
Sand infill is the most widely used and affordable option, making it a top choice for residential and commercial synthetic grass installation. It adds stability to turf blades, improves drainage, and helps maintain an upright appearance.
Benefits of sand infill include:
- Excellent weight distribution
- Natural look and feel
- Great for low-traffic areas
- Cost-effective
However, sand may compact over time, requiring occasional maintenance. It’s best suited for landscape design applications like backyard design, patios, and low-impact zones.
Crumb Rubber Infill: Built for Performance
If you’re installing artificial turf for sports training or high-impact play, crumb rubber infill is a go-to solution. Made from recycled rubber tyres, it offers enhanced shock absorption and a springy surface ideal for athletes.
Key benefits of rubber infill:
- Superior cushioning
- Ideal for athletic fields or agility zones
- Helps regulate turf temperature
- Long-lasting and resilient
One consideration is that rubber infill may retain heat more than other materials. If you’re planning astroturf installation in sunny, open areas, this is something to keep in mind.
Organic and Alternative Infill Options
As sustainability becomes a top priority for homeowners and businesses, organic and alternative infill materials are gaining popularity. These can include cork, coconut husk blends, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), or coated sand.
Advantages of alternative infill:
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic
- Low heat retention
- Great for pets and kids
- Minimal odour and dust
While typically more expensive, these options are ideal for pet areas, family-friendly yards, and premium turf products where comfort and safety are a priority.
Matching Infill with Your Turf Needs
When selecting the right artificial turf infill, it’s important to consider how your synthetic grass will be used. Different environments require different performance traits:
- Playgrounds or pet zones: Use organic or coated sand infill for safety and hygiene.
- Sports fields or gyms: Opt for rubber infill to support high-impact activity.
- Residential or commercial landscapes: Sand offers the best balance of performance and affordability.
At the end of the day, the right infill enhances not only the appearance but also the functionality of your artificial grass products. It keeps your turf comfortable underfoot, extends the life of the material, and maintains its structural integrity through the seasons.
Need Help Choosing the Right Infill for Your Turf?
At Turrific Turf, we provide expert guidance and professional artificial grass installation services across Windsor, Kingsville, LaSalle, Lakeshore, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re building a durable play space, installing synthetic grass in your yard, or planning commercial fake grass installation, our team helps you choose the ideal artificial turf infill for long-term performance and satisfaction.
We take the time to understand your space, usage, and aesthetic goals before recommending the best infill and turf products for the job. From start to finish, we handle every detail with precision and care—so you can enjoy a lush, low-maintenance lawn without the guesswork.
Reach out today for custom quotes and expert installation from a trusted local landscaping company that puts quality and customer satisfaction first.
