Turf infill options compared
The material between the blades. It carries more of the performance than most people expect.
The material between the blades. It carries more of the performance than most people expect.
Infill is the granular material brushed down between turf fibres. It does three jobs: weighs the turf down so it stays put, supports the blades so they stand upright, and protects fibres from being crushed underfoot. Skimp on it and turf looks flat and wears out years early.
Rounded, washed quartz sand. The default and the cheapest option.
Good for: standard lawns, low to moderate traffic, anywhere pets are not a factor.
Weakness: holds ammonia from pet urine, which is why it is the wrong choice for dog areas regardless of what it saves.
Silica sand with an acrylic coating containing an antimicrobial agent.
Good for: pet areas, playgrounds, anywhere odour or hygiene matters.
Weakness: costs meaningfully more than plain silica. Usually worth it — retrofitting infill later means removing and replacing what is already down.
A naturally occurring volcanic mineral with high cation exchange capacity, which in practice means it captures and holds ammonia rather than letting it off-gas.
Good for: heavy pet use, multi-dog households, boarding and daycare facilities.
Weakness: lighter than sand, so it can migrate more in heavy rain. Often blended with silica to get both properties.
Recycled tyre granules. Standard on athletic fields for shock absorption.
Good for: sports surfaces where impact attenuation is the priority.
Weakness: retains significant heat and has attracted ongoing scrutiny over its composition. We do not use it in residential installations.
Cork, coconut fibre and similar. Cooler underfoot and appealing to people avoiding synthetics. They decompose over time and need replenishing, and they hold moisture, which is a real drawback in a humid Kentucky summer.
Typically one to two pounds per square foot depending on pile height and use. Higher pile needs more. Under-infilling is a common way to shave a quote — if a bid seems low, ask what infill weight is specified.
Infill migrates and settles over years. Topping it up every few years restores blade support and extends fibre life. It is inexpensive and one of the highest-value maintenance items.
Most estimates are scheduled within 48 hours.
Tell us the space and we’ll give you a firm, written price. No pressure, no obligation.
