Where pets can use artificial grass

Artificial grass can be installed for pets across multiple substrates as long as you plan for drainage, hygiene, and secure edges.

  • Soil and existing lawns for backyards and side yards.
  • Concrete and pavers for patios, dog runs, and kennel aisles.
  • Balconies and rooftops using lightweight drain tile and pad systems.
  • Crushed stone or decomposed granite areas converted to clean pet zones.

What makes a pet friendly surface work

Drainage fundamentals

  • Use a permeable turf backing. Fully permeable or hole punched backings both work when paired with proper slope.
  • Target 1 to 2 percent slope directing water to a drain path. Avoid low spots.
  • Over soil, build a compacted aggregate base 3 to 4 inches thick using crushed rock with fines.
  • Over concrete or pavers, add interlocking drainage tiles to create an air gap for fast flow.
  • Keep downspouts and sprinklers from dumping directly on the turf area.

Hygiene and odor control

  • Choose antimicrobial or odor absorbing infill such as coated sand or zeolite to neutralize urine.
  • Rinse high use zones regularly and apply enzyme cleaner as needed.
  • Remove solids promptly, then rinse. Simple, consistent care keeps the surface fresh.

Comfort and safety

  • Select a pile height around 1.0 to 1.25 inches for easy cleanup and good paw feel.
  • On balconies and rooftops, use a breathable pad for comfort without trapping moisture.
  • Manage warmth with shade, light colored or cooling infills, and occasional rinsing on hot days.

Durability factors

  • Look for UV stabilized fibers and strong tuft bind to resist pulling and play.
  • Reinforce high traffic entries with extra adhesive, seam tape, and edge fasteners.

Installation guidelines by surface

Over soil or dirt

  1. Remove sod and organic material. Grade for 1 to 2 percent slope.
  2. Install 3 to 4 inches of compacted crushed aggregate base. Wet and compact in lifts.
  3. Optional geotextile for soil separation and weed control.
  4. Roll out turf, align grain, and trim. Use seam tape and adhesive on joints.
  5. Secure perimeter with nails or staples 4 to 6 inches on center.
  6. Distribute antimicrobial infill 1 to 2 pounds per square foot. Power broom to settle.

Over concrete or pavers

  1. Clean and dry the surface. Confirm drainage paths are open.
  2. Lay interlocking drainage tiles wall to wall. Add odor control underlay if desired.
  3. Place turf, align, seam with tape and adhesive, and adhere perimeter as needed.
  4. Add antimicrobial infill and power broom. Rinse test to confirm flow to drains.

On balconies and rooftops

  1. Verify weight limits and HOA or building rules.
  2. Use drain tiles plus a breathable comfort pad if needed. Keep weep holes clear.
  3. Install turf as modular panels or sections for easy lift and clean.
  4. Secure edges with exterior rated tape or mechanical strips that do not penetrate waterproofing.
  5. Use antimicrobial infill. Plan a quick rinse routine to the drain.

Maintenance schedule for pet turf

  • Daily or as needed: remove solids and spot rinse active areas.
  • Weekly: hose down the surface, especially around favorite spots.
  • Monthly: enzyme treatment in warm seasons and power broom to stand fibers.
  • Seasonal: inspect seams and edges, top up infill, and clear drains.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Flat installs with no slope or escape path for water.
  • Skipping drainage tiles on concrete or balconies.
  • Using non antimicrobial infill in heavy pet zones.
  • Light edge fastening that allows pups to pry corners.
  • Seams without proper tape and adhesive.

Product selection checklist

  • Pile height 1.0 to 1.25 inches, dense thatch for rebound and easy cleanup.
  • Permeability focused backing. Aim for fast flow and a clean edge seal.
  • Antimicrobial or odor neutralizing infill matched to your climate.
  • UV stabilized fibers and durable backing for long service life.
  • Drainage tiles or pad when installing on impermeable surfaces.

DIY or hire a pro

  • DIY fits small patios or balcony panels with simple edges.
  • Hire a pro for yards, complex drainage, seam heavy layouts, or when building a new sub base.

Get a site specific spec from FusionTurf

Every surface is a little different. Share your square footage, surface type, slope, drain locations, pet count, and sun exposure. We will recommend a drainage plan, infill, and install method that keeps your space clean and pet ready.