What silica sand infill is and why it is used

Silica sand infill is clean, washed, rounded quartz sand added between turf fibers to keep blades upright, add weight, improve traction, and support drainage. The right grade reduces matting, helps cooling with periodic rinsing, and keeps the surface consistent for kids and dogs.

  • Preferred: washed, rounded, low-dust silica sand in the 16/30 to 20/40 sieve range.
  • Avoid: unwashed construction sand, angular masonry sand, or materials with excess fines that can track or create dust.

Safety for families and pets

Skin and paws

Rounded silica grains are smooth, so they feel comfortable underfoot and gentle on paws. The infill sits below the fiber tips, so contact is minimal during play.

Dust and inhalation during handling

Silica hazards are linked to breathing respirable dust during activities like cutting or blasting. Turf infill is a larger, rounded grain and, once installed and watered in, it is not airborne in normal use. Use clean, low-dust product and control dust during installation.

  • Pre-wet the turf surface before and during spreading.
  • Spread slowly and broom infill into the fibers in thin lifts.
  • Rinse after installation to settle the profile.
  • For DIY installs, a simple dust mask is a smart add-on during pouring.

Water, drainage, and cleanliness

Silica sand does not break down, rot, or support microbial growth. Good base prep and clean infill help flush liquids through the backing and out of the system, which supports odor control and hygiene.

Choosing the right infill spec

  • Material: washed, rounded silica sand, kiln dried for easy placement.
  • Gradation: 16/30 or 20/40 mesh for landscape and pet turf.
  • Dust: low-fines product with minimal silt and clay content.
  • Application rate: typically 1.5 to 3.0 lbs per sq ft, adjusted by turf pile height and traffic.
  • Settle and lock: power broom and final rinse to seat infill below the fiber tips.

Pets and odor management

Dogs love turf. Keep it fresh with the right mix and maintenance.

  • Blend option: mix 10 to 30 percent zeolite with silica to help capture ammonia from urine.
  • Coated sands: antimicrobial or deodorizing coatings can add odor control without sacrificing stability.
  • Care routine: remove solids daily, rinse traffic and potty zones weekly, and use enzyme-based cleaners as needed.

Heat, static, and play comfort

All synthetic surfaces warm up in full sun. Silica infill helps distribute heat and supports airflow between fibers.

  • Cool-down: quick hose rinse lowers surface temperature fast.
  • Shade and timing: schedule play during morning or late afternoon on hot days.
  • Static: periodic rinsing and proper grounding of nearby fencing reduces static potential.

Playground and fall safety

Silica sand infill stabilizes the turf surface but does not provide impact attenuation by itself. For play areas with equipment, include an underlayment pad engineered and tested to ASTM F1292 for your designated fall height. Look for systems with verified lab and field results.

Alternatives to silica sand

  • Zeolite: helpful for odor control, lighter weight, often blended with silica rather than used alone.
  • Coated sands: add antimicrobial or cooling properties with similar play feel.
  • TPE or EPDM elastomers: resilient infills common on sports fields; higher cost, added cushion, heavier for windy sites.

When silica sand may not be the best fit

  • Indoor spaces with strict dust control requirements at install time.
  • High-wind rooftops where heavier or coated infills help resist migration.
  • Projects that prioritize maximum odor capture may choose a higher zeolite ratio or coated sand.

FusionTurf recommended baseline spec

Use a proven, low-dust, rounded silica sand as your foundation. Add targeted upgrades for pets or playgrounds.

  • Landscape and pets: 70 to 90 percent rounded silica sand plus 10 to 30 percent zeolite by volume.
  • Gradation: 16/30 or 20/40 mesh, washed, kiln dried.
  • Rate: 2.0 to 2.5 lbs per sq ft for typical 1.5 to 1.75 inch pile, adjust to manufacturer guidance.
  • Play zones: pair the above with an impact pad tested to your fall height.

Maintenance checklist

  • Weekly: pick up solids, quick hose rinse in potty and high-traffic zones.
  • Monthly: power broom to lift fibers and redistribute infill if needed.
  • Seasonal: deep rinse, top off infill where low, inspect seams and edges.

Dial in the right infill and routine, and your turf stays clean, safe, and ready for every sprint, slide, and belly flop.