About ArtificialTurfGuide
An independent, specification-level reference on artificial turf: what it costs, how to choose it, how to build it well and how to fix it.
ArtificialTurfGuide exists because buying artificial turf is harder than it looks. The product photos all look the same, quotes for the same yard can differ by a factor of two, and the information that decides whether a lawn lasts (base depth, compaction, stitch rate, backing permeability, infill rate) is exactly what most sales material leaves out.
We set out to build the reference we would want before spending several thousand dollars on a yard: specific, measurable, honest about downsides, and organized around the decisions people actually face.
What we cover
- Cost and buying: installed prices by tier and component, how to compare quotes, warranties and long-term cost against a natural lawn.
- Choosing turf: fibers, pile height, face weight, stitch rate, backing, thatch and how to read a spec sheet.
- Building it right: excavation, base and compaction, drainage, seams, edges, infill, slopes and special surfaces.
- Living with it: dogs, cleaning, maintenance, heat, lifespan and troubleshooting.
- Special projects: putting greens, pool surrounds, playgrounds, rooftops, sports and gym surfaces.
- Data and tools: our own cost, water and lifespan models, and calculators that show their assumptions.
Who we write for
Mostly homeowners deciding whether turf is right for them, choosing a product, hiring an installer or doing the work themselves. We also write for property managers, school and club committees and landscapers who want a neutral, specification-based reference to share with clients.
How we work
Every guide is researched against primary material: manufacturer specification sheets and installation manuals, published standards (ASTM, CPSC, FIFA), public agency guidance (for example from the EPA and state and local water agencies) and peer-reviewed research where it exists. Where a number comes from our own modeling rather than a published source, we say so and list the assumptions. Our editorial policy describes the process in detail, and sources and methodology lists the reference material we rely on.
Independence
We do not sell turf, installation or cleaning products, and we do not accept payment for coverage, rankings or links. We recommend specifications and approaches, not brands. If that ever changes for a specific page, the page will say so clearly.
Contact and corrections
Questions, suggestions and corrections are welcome. See our contact page, or go straight to corrections if you think something on the site is wrong.