How artificial turf adheres to concrete
Most concrete installs use perimeter adhesive and seam tape with polyurethane glue. Some applications add a shock pad or underlayment that is also bonded. A few systems use full-spread adhesive across the slab. Knowing the glue pattern tells you how fast removal will go and what you will need to clean.
- Perimeter bond: Glue at edges and thresholds. Fastest to release.
- Seam tape: Glue binds the seam tape to concrete and turf backing. Requires targeted solvent and scraping.
- Full-spread or heavy spot-bond: Slower to remove and leaves more residue.
- Underlayment: Foam or pad may delaminate. Expect extra scraping and cleanup.
Removal methods that protect your slab
Tools and materials
- Sharp utility knife and hook blades
- Long-handled floor scraper or razor scraper
- Adhesive remover rated for polyurethane construction adhesive
- Absorbent pads or sweeping compound
- Rags, plastic sheeting, and painter's tape
- Protective gear: gloves, eye protection, and respirator as labeled
- Optional: heat gun on low for stubborn edges, floor buffer with scraping attachment
Step-by-step removal
- Score the turf into manageable strips. Cut backing only to avoid scoring the concrete.
- Lift an edge at a corner. Pry gently to expose glued areas.
- Apply adhesive remover per label to seams and perimeter bonds. Allow dwell time so the glue gels and releases.
- Peel the turf back slowly while scraping softened adhesive from the slab.
- Roll each section tight and tape it for handling and disposal or reuse.
- Remove seam tape and any pad, then reapply remover to remaining residue.
- Scrape again, collect slurry with absorbent, and bag it.
- Final clean: mild detergent and water, then rinse. Avoid harsh solvents that can strip sealed or decorative concrete.
- Dry the slab fully before any new coating, sealer, or turf goes down.
Pro tips for a cleaner pull
- Test a small area first to confirm the right remover and dwell time.
- Warm conditions speed release. Cold slows it down.
- Keep blades fresh. Dull blades gouge backing and fight you at seams.
- Cover nearby drains. Do not allow remover or adhesive slurry into storm systems.
- Use plastic or wood pry tools on stamped, stained, or sealed concrete.
What to expect from the concrete after removal
- Light residue is normal and cleans up with a second pass of remover and a detergent wash.
- Color variation can appear where turf shielded the slab from sun and weather. It typically blends over time.
- Sealers applied before turf may be partially affected by adhesives or removers. Test compatibility and re-seal if needed.
- Sound concrete is rarely damaged. Chips or spalls usually come from prior defects, not the turf, and can be patched.
Time, difficulty, and cost drivers
- Adhesive coverage: Perimeter-only pulls faster than full-spread glue.
- Seam count and layout: More seams require more targeted release work.
- Age and type of glue: Older polyurethane can be tougher until properly softened.
- Access and disposal: Rooftops, tight stairs, and long carries add labor.
- Underlayment: Bonded pad increases scraping and cleanup time.
A small patio often finishes in a day with an experienced two-person crew. Larger rooftops or full-spread adhesives can take multiple days. Pros quote after a site check because glue type, slab condition, and access vary.
Can the turf be reused?
Sometimes. Edges and seams see the most stress during removal, and adhesive can clog the backing. Salvaged pieces are best repurposed for pet runs, play strips, or utility areas rather than a showcase surface.
Planning to install new turf afterward
- Remove all adhesive residue and dust. Residue can telegraph through new turf or weaken new bonds.
- Check slope and drainage. Correct ponding areas before reinstalling.
- Patch cracks or spalls so the base is smooth and solid.
- Verify moisture conditions if you plan to re-seal or bond new materials.
DIY or hire a pro
- DIY fits small areas with perimeter glue and easy access.
- Hire a pro for large spaces, full-spread adhesives, decorative or sealed concrete, rooftops, or warranty-sensitive settings.
- Pros bring adhesive-specific removers, collection methods, and floor machines that speed the work and protect the slab.
Disposal and recycling
- Roll and tape sections for safe transport.
- Check local carpet and synthetic turf recycling programs or construction debris facilities.
- Keep adhesive slurry and chemical residues out of drains. Dispose of per local regulations.
Safety and environmental notes
- Follow the adhesive remover's label for ventilation, PPE, and disposal.
- Use the least aggressive product that releases the glue effectively.
- Contain and bag scrap, tape, and absorbents to prevent tracking adhesive.
