How pet turf performs on concrete

Concrete is a stable base that makes a clean, durable foundation for a pet turf system. The key is giving liquids a path off the surface, adding cushion for joints and paws, and choosing an odor management plan that fits your climate and pet traffic.

Drainage fundamentals

  • Make water move: Use existing slope on the slab or create a gentle 1 to 2 percent pitch toward a drain or edge.
  • Create vertical escape: Where slope is minimal, add a drain mat or perforated shock pad to create channels under the turf.
  • Use flow-through backing: Choose turf with perforations or a fully permeable backing so liquids pass quickly into the drainage layer.

Comfort and safety for pets

  • Shock pad thickness: 5 to 10 mm works for most patios and runs. For active or large breeds, consider 12 to 20 mm.
  • Traction: Choose a shorter, dense pet turf for better grip and easier cleanup.
  • Hygiene: Antimicrobial backings and infills help keep the surface fresher between cleanings.

Step-by-step installation on concrete

  1. Inspect and prep the slab: Repair cracks or spalls, remove bumps, and pressure wash. Let the surface dry completely.
  2. Plan drainage: Identify the low point and route to a drain or edge. If needed, place a drain mat or shock pad with channels.
  3. Dry-fit materials: Unroll turf and pad to relax. Align pile direction away from main viewing areas.
  4. Trim to fit: Use a sharp knife, cut from the backing, and leave a slight expansion gap at walls or curbs.
  5. Seam the turf: Use seaming tape with two-part urethane adhesive. Marry factory edges cleanly and roll the seam.
  6. Place and secure pad: Tape seams on the pad or drain mat. Avoid blocking flow channels.
  7. Perimeter attachment: Use urethane adhesive in beads or troweled ribbons. Add mechanical edging where traffic is heavy.
  8. Infill: Brush in zeolite or a pet-blend infill to spec. Keep infill out of seam lines and drains.
  9. Groom: Power broom or stiff-brush to stand fibers and distribute infill evenly.
  10. Test: Rinse with a hose and confirm fast, even drainage to the intended outlet.

Tools and materials checklist

  • Artificial pet turf with perforated or permeable backing
  • Shock pad or drain mat sized for the area
  • Seam tape and two-part urethane adhesive
  • Urethane perimeter adhesive or pressure-sensitive tape
  • Zeolite or pet-focused infill, push broom, and power broom if available
  • Utility knife with extra blades, chalk line, straightedge, rollers, PPE

Drainage options in detail

Use the slab slope

Best when the concrete already falls 1 to 2 percent toward a drain or edge. Keep the drain grate clear and avoid sealing it with adhesive.

Drain mat or perforated pad

Creates channels under the turf so liquids can move even on a flat slab. Choose a pad with vertical and lateral flow and bond it in a way that does not block channels.

Edge release

Where water exits at an edge, finish with a trim that allows outflow while protecting the turf edge from lift or fray.

Odor management that works

  • Primary infill: Zeolite locks up ammonia and helps neutralize pet urine.
  • Rinse routine: Quick hose rinse after heavy use. Weekly rinse for average use.
  • Enzyme cleaner: Use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner monthly or as needed.
  • Airflow and sun: Good ventilation and sunlight help surfaces dry faster between uses.

Adhesives and edging on concrete

  • Perimeter bond: Urethane adhesive troweled in beads or ribbons provides a strong, moisture-tolerant hold.
  • Seams: Use seaming tape with two-part urethane adhesive. Keep glue off the backing holes.
  • Edging: Metal or composite L-trim mechanically anchored can protect edges and guide drainage.
  • Movement joints: Bridge expansion joints with tape rather than rigid adhesive to allow slab movement.

Maintenance routine

  • Weekly: Pick up solids, brush high-traffic lanes, and rinse.
  • Monthly: Enzyme treat, check edges and seams, top off infill if needed.
  • Seasonal: Deep clean with a gentle turf-safe cleaner and a thorough rinse.

Cost and timeline

  • DIY materials: About 3 to 8 dollars per square foot depending on turf, pad, and infill selection.
  • Pro install: About 12 to 22 dollars per square foot, driven by pad thickness, drainage components, and access.
  • Time: A 150 to 300 square foot patio typically completes in one day after surface prep.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • No drainage plan: Standing water or trapped urine leads to odor. Always give water a path out.
  • Gluing over drains: Keep drains accessible and free flowing.
  • Skipping infill: Infill supports fibers, improves traction, and aids odor control.
  • Poor seam work: Rushed seams show. Cut clean edges and roll the joint.

Where concrete installs excel

  • Patios, side yards, and courtyards that need clean pet zones
  • Balconies and rooftops with defined drainage paths and wind-secured edges
  • Kennels and indoor runs that demand fast cleanup and durability

When to bring in a FusionTurf pro

Complex drainage, large seams, or rooftop wind conditions benefit from a certified installer. Get a site-specific plan that nails drainage, comfort, and odor control with the right materials from the start.