Why mold shows up on turf over concrete
Mold needs moisture, organic material, and stagnant air. Concrete is non-porous, so water lingers if it cannot escape. If turf sits flat on the slab, edges are sealed, or debris builds up, moisture can get trapped and feed mildew. The fix is simple: give water and air a clear path.
Build it right: a drainage-first system
Core components
- Drain mat or grid that lifts turf off the slab and creates continuous channels for water and airflow.
- Perforated, high-quality synthetic turf designed for vertical drainage.
- Antimicrobial or pet-friendly infill such as coated sand or zeolite to reduce odor-causing bacteria.
- Breathable seam and perimeter strategy that avoids creating a sealed bathtub.
Site prep and slope
Confirm the slab directs water to a drain or edge. Clean the surface, remove oils and debris, and ensure any existing drains are open and functional.
Installation checklist
- Clean and dry the concrete.
- Lay a drain mat with channels aligned toward the drainage point.
- Dry-fit turf, align grain, and trim.
- Use seam tape and polyurethane turf adhesive in controlled beads or grid patterns to allow vapor and water movement. Do not fully trowel the entire backing.
- Secure the perimeter without sealing every inch. Leave discreet weep gaps so water can exit.
- Add the specified amount of antimicrobial or zeolite infill and power broom to settle fibers and open perforations.
- Rinse-test to confirm water moves freely to the drain or edge.
Maintenance that keeps mold away
- Rinse as needed, especially after heavy use or storms. In humid climates, a quick weekly rinse helps.
- Blow or brush off leaves, pollen, and dust so organics do not accumulate.
- Use an enzyme cleaner periodically to break down residues. For pets, spot-rinse after use and enzyme treat high-traffic zones weekly.
- Refresh odor control infill as needed and keep drains clear.
Already seeing mildew or odors? Fix it fast
- Dry it out. Lift a reachable edge to let air in and increase airflow across the surface.
- Rinse through the turf and drain mat to flush trapped fines.
- Brush the area to disrupt biofilm, then rinse again.
- Apply a turf-safe enzyme cleaner or 3 percent hydrogen peroxide for stubborn spots, then rinse thoroughly.
- If water still pools, add a drain mat under the turf or open small perimeter weep gaps. Consult a professional before coring a structural slab.
What to avoid
- Closed-cell foam pads without integrated channels that trap water.
- Fully sealed perimeters that block drainage.
- Organic infills that hold moisture and feed microbes.
- Harsh solvents or strong bleach that can damage fibers and backing.
Climate and placement notes
- Shaded or covered patios need extra airflow and more frequent rinsing.
- Rooftops and balconies require attention to wind uplift, drainage paths, and local codes.
- Cold climates: use plastic shovels for snow and avoid metal edges that can nick the backing.
Pet zone best practices on concrete
- Use antimicrobial or zeolite infill for odor control.
- Include a drain mat and route water to a drain that is easy to rinse.
- Spot-rinse after use and enzyme clean weekly for a consistently fresh surface.
When to bring in FusionTurf
If your slab has complex grading, limited airflow, or recurring odors, our team or a certified dealer will spec the right drain mat, turf, and infill, then install it to stay clean and dry. Expect straight answers and a system that performs.
