How infill behaves in rain and wind

Artificial turf systems drain vertically through perforated backing and a free draining base. Properly selected and compacted infill interlocks with the turf fibers and base, so it does not float or blow away under normal storm conditions. Issues arise when water is forced to run across the surface or when edges and seams are not restrained.

  • Rain moves through the system, not across it, when the base and slope are correct.
  • Wind does not move heavier infills like coated silica sand once they are settled between fibers.
  • Lighter or buoyant infills can shift on exposed, windy sites if depth is low or edges are open.

What actually causes infill loss

Water velocity and channeling

Surface runoff can carry granules only when water is concentrated and fast. That happens at downspout outlets, low edges, or along hardscape lips that dump water onto the turf.

  • Direct downspouts into drains, not onto the turf.
  • Avoid creating channels that focus flow along the edge or seam lines.
  • Steep sections above 10 percent pitch are higher risk and need more attention to depth and restraint.

Edge failure and seams

If the perimeter is not tucked and pinned or if seams open, infill can migrate out under heavy flow or traffic.

  • Tuck the turf below adjacent hardscape and secure it to a nailer or bender board.
  • Use seam tape and adhesive over a smooth, compacted base and weight the seam while curing.

Infill type and gradation

Heavier, well graded materials resist movement better. Lighter or buoyant materials perform well when installed to spec but can need periodic top off on fully exposed sites.

  • Coated silica sand at 16 to 30 mesh is a stable, proven choice for rain and wind.
  • Zeolite adds odor control and pairs well with sand for stability in pet areas.
  • TPE or EPDM are resilient and lighter than sand. Follow depth specs and monitor exposed zones.
  • Organic cork or walnut shell run cooler and are renewable. Plan for occasional top off in windy or sloped installations.

Choose the right infill for your site

  • Landscape yards in rainy climates: favor coated silica sand or sand plus zeolite for mass and odor control.
  • Coastal or canyon wind zones: lean toward heavier sand based systems and tighten edge restraint.
  • Pet areas: zeolite blend over a stable sand base for balance of stability and odor control.
  • Putting greens: clean, dry quartz sand sized for your turf, installed in light passes and power broomed to lock.

Installation practices that lock infill in place

  • Base: use 3 to 4 inches of compacted angular aggregate. Aim for firm, smooth, and level with a light crown where needed.
  • Drainage and slope: target 1 to 2 percent surface grade away from structures. Keep downspouts and sump discharge off the turf.
  • Edge restraint: tuck the edge 0.5 inch below hardscape, then nail or staple every 4 to 6 inches on curves and 6 to 8 inches on straights, or secure to bender board.
  • Seams: bond with quality tape and adhesive, then weight until cured to prevent openings that can release infill.
  • Infill loading: install in multiple light passes with power brooming between. Typical targets are 1 to 2 pounds per square foot for landscape, 2 to 3 for pets, and 2 to 4 for putting greens. Always follow the turf manufacturer specification.
  • Fiber exposure: stop when blades are supported but not buried, leaving roughly 0.25 to 0.75 inch of tip exposed.

Maintenance after big storms

  1. Inspect the perimeter and seams. Re-secure any lifted areas before grooming.
  2. Clear debris that can trap or carry infill, such as leaves and mulch.
  3. Power broom or use a stiff push broom to re-level granules and stand fibers upright.
  4. Top off only where backing shows or depressions are felt. Brush in lightly.

When to consider a top off

  • Coastal or canyon winds that regularly exceed site norms.
  • Steep runs above 10 percent pitch.
  • High traffic pet runs with frequent rinsing.
  • Organic infill systems on fully exposed, elevated sites.

Simple field checks

  • Brush test: after 10 strokes with a stiff broom, blades should stand with granules still seated. If backing shows, add infill.
  • Hand pull test: tug at the edge. If infill dribbles out, increase edge restraint and density.
  • Spot depth: use a depth gauge or a marked zip tie to confirm consistent infill level across the surface.

Specs at a glance

  • Target infill load: 1 to 2 pounds per square foot for most landscape, 2 to 3 for pets, 2 to 4 for putting.
  • Granule size: 16 to 30 mesh silica sand is a stable choice for rain and wind.
  • Slope: 1 to 2 percent surface grade. Avoid edges that create channels.
  • Drainage: perforated backings commonly rate at 30 inches per hour or more. Match with a free draining base.

Need help dialing in your spec?

Tell us your site conditions and goals. We will recommend the infill type, loading, and edge detail that keep your turf locked in through rain and wind.