Why sand grade matters for artificial putting greens

Particle size, shape, and cleanliness set your green's speed, trueness, and durability. Rounded, washed silica compacts predictably, drains well, and is gentle on fibers. Coarser blends support the pile and set firmness. Finer blends topdress smooth so putts hold line.

  • Rounded, washed silica only. It is consistent, low dust, and stable.
  • Angular or crushed sands compact too tight, can abrade yarn, and may slow drainage.
  • Cleanliness is non negotiable. Kiln dried and washed prevents clumping and dust.

Recommended grades and when to use each

All sizes below refer to typical U.S. mesh ranges with approximate particle diameters.

  • 16/30 about 1.18 to 0.595 mm. Best as a base infill layer for firmness, cup stability, and support.
  • 20/40 about 0.85 to 0.425 mm. A balanced middle that supports and still finishes reasonably smooth.
  • 30/50 about 0.6 to 0.3 mm. Ideal as a topdressing to refine surface texture and roll.

Use a layered approach. Start with 16/30 or 20/40 to lock the profile, then topdress with 30/50 to tune speed and trueness.

Match grade to turf type and target speed

  • Texturized nylon or polypropylene putting turf short pile, dense face weight. Use mostly 30/50 for finish after a light 16/30 or 20/40 base to set firmness. Easy to tune for faster stimp.
  • Polyethylene putting systems slightly longer pile or hybrid builds. Start with 16/30 or 20/40 for structure, then 30/50 to smooth and set line.
  • Target faster stimp lean finer on the final lifts and increase brushing. Target slower stimp lean slightly coarser on the body layer and reduce final topdress weight.

How much infill to use

Always follow the turf manufacturer specification first. Use the ranges below as general guidance.

  • Texturized putting turf about 2 to 4 lb per sq ft total 10 to 20 kg per 10 m². Most of that is 30/50 with a light 16/30 or 20/40 base.
  • Longer pile or hybrid putting systems about 3 to 6 lb per sq ft total 15 to 30 kg per 10 m² using a 16/30 or 20/40 body and a 30/50 finish.
  • Fill depth rule of thumb build to about 60 to 80 percent of exposed fiber height for stability, then micro tune with topdressing.

Installation workflow that delivers true roll

1. Stage and dry

Use kiln dried, washed silica. Store covered and off the ground. Work in dry weather or climate control for indoor builds.

2. Base infill placement

Broadcast 16/30 or 20/40 with a drop spreader in light, even lifts about 0.5 to 1 lb per sq ft per pass. Brush in against the grain, then cross brush to settle.

3. Set and stabilize

Water lightly or roll to help settle between lifts. If your turf maker allows, make light passes with a plate compactor using a protective pad. Do not wrinkle seams.

4. Topdress for finish

Apply 30/50 in two or more micro lifts. Brush, roll, and test putts after each pass. Stop when roll is true and speed meets your target.

Material selection details

  • Use washed, rounded silica in 16/30, 20/40, and 30/50. Consistent grading improves predictability.
  • Avoid crushed limestone, masonry sand, play sand, or beach sand. They produce dust, can break down, and may alter pH or drainage.
  • Coated options acrylic coated rounded silica in 30/50 can reduce dust, limit static, and resist algae. Useful for indoor greens or humid regions.
  • Color natural tan is standard. Green coated topdressing can minimize glare and hide minor contamination.

Speed tuning and troubleshooting

  • Roll is bumpy add a light 30/50 topdress, brush aggressively in multiple directions, then roll.
  • Too fast micro topdress with 30/50 and increase grooming to add subtle texture.
  • Too slow groom the surface, reduce loose fines, and consider a small 20/40 lift to raise firmness.
  • Seam ghosting check infill uniformity across seams. Balance with measured micro lifts and cross brushing.
  • Cup edges settling backfill around cups with 16/30 first, then finish with 30/50 to match grade.

Maintenance that keeps performance locked in

  • Brush weekly during peak use and at least monthly otherwise. Vary directions to keep fibers vertical.
  • Top off with 30/50 as needed. Small, frequent passes prevent overcorrection.
  • Keep debris out. Leaf litter and fines change speed and hold moisture.
  • Rinse periodically to manage dust. Ensure drainage paths stay open.

Safety and handling

  • Wear eye protection and a suitable dust mask or respirator when handling dry sand.
  • Keep bags sealed and dry. Avoid applying in wind.
  • Follow all local regulations for crystalline silica handling and disposal.

Specs at a glance

  • Best sand for putting green infill: washed, rounded silica.
  • Grades that work: 16/30 base, 20/40 middle, 30/50 topdress.
  • Typical total infill: 2 to 6 lb per sq ft depending on turf system.
  • Finish method: light, repeated lifts with heavy brushing and test putts.
  • Goal: stable base with a fine top layer that rolls true and drains clean.