The X-Turf Collection by Alliance Gator has everything you need to complete the perfect installation of artificial turf. The true key to a perfect installation, however, is using proper technique and not cutting corners. In this post, we’ll outline the seven biggest mistakes to avoid when installing artificial turf.

Mistake #1: Using an inferior turf product

Using a quality turf product, like Gator X-Turf, is the first step to a successful installation. One way to identify good quality turf is by examining the backing. While a latex backing might feel nice to the touch, latex will deteriorate over time. The shelf life of the turf can be as little as a year! Once the backing fails, the turf blades will begin to fall out and the entire project will begin to look patchy and worn. The backing on all Gator X-Turf blends consists of a woven geotextile. The thatch and stitch gauge are also coated with a polyurethane, which is UV-resistant and won’t degrade or break down over time.

Mistake #2: Using the wrong bedding material

While we would never recommend using stone dust for a paver base, it’s the best option to use for artificial turf. A sand or chip setting bed cannot compact smoothly like stone dust can, thus walking on the turf can ultimately feel like walking on a blanket at the beach.

Mistake #4: Not using infill sand

While oftentimes overlooked, infill sand is incredibly important to both the look and longevity of the project. The five main benefits infill sand will bring to an artificial turf project are:

It helps add ballast and weigh the turf down.
It helps keep the turf blades upright.
It helps prevent moss and mildew.
It provides better shock absorption.
It protects the turf backing.

For more on infill sand, be sure to read this post: What’s the purpose of infill sand for turf?

Mistake #5: Cutting from the back side

Turf should always be cut from the back side of the roll. This will prevent damaging the blades and making a mess. (Pro Tip: On a new roll of turf, you’ll want to cut off about three rows of the manufactured edge. This will help remove blades that were damaged/bent during the manufacturing process.) Also be sure to get as close to the stitch gauge as possible when making your cuts on the roll edges. When seaming, however, one side of the seam should be close to stitch gauge, and the adjacent side should be further away to keep the consistency of the stitch gauge.

Mistake #6: Using the wrong adhesive

We strongly recommend using Gator XP Glue with artificial turf. It’s easy to use/install and it has a thick viscosity. This allows it to completely fill the peaks and valleys of the stitch gauge, which will improve the overall bonding to the seam tape. Gator XP Glue sets up quickly, in about 1-3 hours depending on temperatures and conditions. (Pro Tip: When gluing, be sure to avoid getting any glue on the center line of the seam tape, as it can seep through and make a mess of the turf blades.)

Extra Education: Check out this post on why Gator XP Glue is ideal for artificial turf!

Mistake #7: Not installing the nails properly

First, you’ll want to use a non-galvanized nail, such as the Gator X-Turf Nail, that will rust and secure into the ground. When installing the nails, it’s important to make sure they’re hammered flush, and not pinching any of the blades. These kinds of imperfections will be very obvious on the finished job. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend installing nails every 6” on the perimeter and every 12” on the interior of the job.

Recap

Remember, the key to a perfect turf installation is using proper technique and not cutting corners. Avoid making these seven mistakes to extend the life of your project:

Using an inferior turf product
Using the wrong bedding material
Installing the blades in different directions
Not using infill sand
Cutting from the back side
Using the wrong adhesive
Not installing the nails properly

7 Mistakes To Avoid With Turf Infographic

If you’re interested in adding Gator X-Turf artificial turf to your existing offering of products/services, request a free sample box today.*

7 Mistakes To Avoid When Installing Artificial Turf