What determines if you can skip the drain mat

Concrete can work as a base if it moves water and stays dry. Use this checklist before committing to a no-mat install.

  • Slope: Target at least 1/8 inch per foot fall to a drain or edge. No standing water after a hose test.
  • Surface condition: Solid, smooth, and clean. Grind down high spots, fill spalls and cracks, remove loose coatings, and degrease.
  • Exposure: Covered patios and light rainfall areas tolerate no-mat installs better than open, storm-exposed slabs.
  • Turf backing: Perforated, high-flow backings help. Dense or non-perforated backings benefit from a mat.
  • Use case: Light foot traffic can go without a mat. Pets, play, or training areas gain from airflow and cushion.

When a drain mat is the smarter move

  • Flat or reverse-slope slabs: A mat creates continuous channels so water does not stall under the turf.
  • Heavy rain or frequent washdowns: Faster flow reduces pooling and microbial growth.
  • Freeze-thaw climates: Air space helps moisture escape and reduces bond to ice.
  • Pet zones: Airflow under the turf improves odor control and cleaning results.
  • Comfort and safety: Mats add shock absorption and a more forgiving feel underfoot.
  • Rooftops or waterproofed decks: A mat protects membranes and promotes even drainage.

How to install turf on concrete without a drain mat

1) Prep the slab

  • Clean thoroughly. Pressure wash if needed and let the slab dry fully.
  • Level minor birdbaths with exterior patch compound. Maintain slope to a drain edge.
  • Confirm moisture is not wicking through the slab. Address leaks before installing.

2) Plan layout and seams

  • Dry-fit the turf. Align grain direction and minimize seams in high-traffic sightlines.
  • Trim edges with a sharp knife for tight, straight lines.

3) Adhere strategically

  • Use perimeter adhesive beads or strips and seam tape with urethane turf adhesive. Avoid gluing the entire field so moisture can migrate.
  • Roll and weight seams for full contact. Wipe any squeeze-out immediately.

4) Manage edges and drainage

  • Do not seal every edge tight against vertical walls. Leave small weep paths at the low side so water can exit.
  • Never drill into waterproofed roofs or post-tension slabs. Only add weep holes where safe and permitted.

5) Finish and groom

  • Brush fibers upright against the grain. Add infill as specified by the turf product for stability and appearance.
  • Rinse test. Confirm water moves to the intended exit path without pooling.

If you choose a drain mat

Pick a dimpled or cell-style mat designed for turf. Typical thickness is 3/8 to 1/2 inch.

  • Clean the slab, then roll out the mat with dimples down, channels running toward the drain edge.
  • Tape mat seams per manufacturer guidance. Do not block channels.
  • Lay turf over the mat, then adhere at the perimeter and seams. Avoid full-field glue that can collapse channels.

Drainage and moisture management

  • Exit path: Always maintain a clear path for water to leave at the low side.
  • Airflow: Keep some edge breathing room or use a vented threshold to prevent trapped humidity.
  • Flood-prone areas: A mat is strongly recommended. Consider adding a small curb ramp or scupper to help water move off the slab.

Comfort, safety, and performance

  • Heat: All turf warms in sun. Rinse to cool and consider cooling infill for hot exposures. A mat’s air gap can reduce heat transfer from the slab.
  • Cushion: Mats or shock pads improve fall attenuation for play and training areas.
  • Longevity: Better drainage and airflow usually extend turf life and appearance.

Maintenance on concrete

  • Blow off debris regularly. Rinse as needed to move fines toward the drain edge.
  • For pets, rinse frequently and treat with enzyme cleaner. A mat helps odors dissipate.
  • Re-broom high-traffic lanes to keep fibers standing and infill level.

Tools and materials checklist

  • Turf, seaming tape, urethane turf adhesive, utility knife with spare blades
  • Broom or power brush, measuring tape, straightedge, roller or weights
  • Optional: drainage mat, exterior patch compound, cooling or antimicrobial infill

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Installing over a slab that ponds water.
  • Gluing the entire field and trapping moisture.
  • Blocking drainage channels or sealing the low edge.
  • Ignoring pet odor control and airflow needs.
  • Cutting seams with mismatched grain direction.

When to call a pro

Have a flat slab, rooftop, heavy pet use, or complex edges and drains? A FusionTurf dealer can assess slope, select the right underlayment, and deliver a clean, durable install.