Whether you’re a homeowner trying to DIY your artificial turf installation or a professional artificial grass installer, it can be tricky to ensure that you have everything you need to get the job done. After all, failing to invest in the proper supplies can reduce the lifespan of your artificial turf installation and reduce the long-term value of the investment.

Before you get to work sprucing up your outdoor space, make sure you have the best supplies to do the job right the first time. Here are five key supplies you’ll need to get started:

1. Shock Absorbency Underpad

If you want to make your artificial grass backyard as safe as possible for kids or athletes, install an eco-friendly foam underpadding directly under the synthetic turf. SGW’s underpad is specially designed to deliver additional shock absorbency, and it comes in a range of heights from ¾ inches to 2⅛ inches. 

Like all of our playground turf products, the underpad is IPEMA-certified and meets or exceeds all standards set by the American Society for Testing and Material. When used with our PlayScapes system — a playground landscaping system specially engineered to be safe and fun for kids — our underpad layer protects kids from impact injuries and falls from up to 10 feet high. 

Our foam padding also maintains GMax scores, so you can rest assured that our artificial turf products are some of the safest and most durable landscaping options available on the market for children’s use. 

2. Adhesives

Most sub-base conditions require using specialized nails or staples to secure the artificial turf in place. When properly installed, your artificial grass backyard should be able to stand up to hot summers, rainstorms, heavy snow, and high winds without experiencing wrinkling, broken blades or loose seams.

To achieve this, you’ll need three main tools: staples, seam glue, and seam tape. The staples can be used to hold the artificial grass in place as you align the turf rolls and cut them to size. To secure the turf to the sub-base without visible seams, we recommend using seam tape and adhesive, allowing it to dry overnight for a strong hold.

3. Infill

Infill, which refers to the products placed between the blades of an artificial turf lawn, is a crucial component of any good artificial turf installation. Infill aids synthetic grass in a number of different ways; it helps the turf blades maintain their upright position and shields the turf’s backing from the sun’s UV rays. It also helps give artificial grass the feeling of natural sod grass, with infill mimicking the way soil absorbs impacts.

Envirofill is one of the best choices for an artificial grass backyard because its antimicrobial technology creates a sterile environment that prevents bacteria, mold, and mildew growth. The green silicone dioxide granules are non-toxic and bacteria-free, and they’re ideal for areas where bacteria transmission is a concern, such as playgrounds or athletic fields. No matter what you need your synthetic turf for, however, infill is a must-have for your installation process.

4. Drainage Grid

In order to allow water and other liquids like pet waste to drain away quickly, drainage mats must be installed underneath the artificial turf. These drainage grids, such as AirDrain, make your synthetic turf drainage even more efficient and sweep away waste in record time to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors. 

AirDrain is a geocell drainage grid that creates a 1-inch, 92 percent air void underneath your artificial grass. It elevates the synthetic turf above the subgrade to allow air to circulate and water to pass through rapidly. By separating the artificial grass from the sub-base underneath, AirDrain can efficiently flush pet waste and other bacteria so your synthetic grass will stay clean and sanitary for your family’s enjoyment.

5. Artificial Turf

Of course, last but not least, you’ll need high-quality artificial turf to complete your artificial turf installation. Whether you need pet turf for your dog run, playground turf for your backyard jungle gym or landscape turf for your pool deck, choosing a synthetic grass product suitable for your needs is essential to getting the most out of your investment.

To get the best turf on the market, choose a trusted artificial grass seller with an industry-wide reputation for quality. They should be able to guide you in deciding which synthetic turf products are best for your artificial grass backyard and even recommend artificial grass installers in your area.

If you need further guidance in choosing which artificial turf installation products are right for you and your clients’ needs, contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse location. At SGW Dallas, we can help you find the perfect synthetic grass products for your home or business, from drainage grids and underpads to dog turf and infill. SGW has been an industry leader for more than 20 years, helping distributors, installers, and homeowners alike with all their artificial grass installation needs. To find out more about our products or to receive guidance with your next turf grass installation, contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse facility today!