Artificial turf infill calculator
Turn your area, pile height and infill type into total pounds, number of bags, cost and a spreading plan.
On this page
Enter your dimensions and choose your pile height, use and infill. The result gives a range rather than one number because manufacturers' recommended rates vary, and the right amount is the one that leaves the top half to two thirds of each blade exposed.
Calculate infill pounds and bags
Rates are typical landscape ranges. Always check the turf manufacturer's recommended infill rate first.
The method
The calculator looks up a rate range in pounds per square foot from the table below, adjusts it for the weight of the material you chose, and multiplies by your area.
| Pile height | Decorative | Family lawn | Pets or heavy traffic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 1 in | 0.5 to 1 lb | 0.75 to 1.25 lb | 1 to 1.5 lb |
| 1 to 1.5 in | 1 lb | 1 to 1.5 lb | 1.5 to 2 lb |
| 1.5 to 2 in | 1 to 1.5 lb | 1.5 to 2.5 lb | 2 to 2.5 lb |
| Over 2 in | 1.5 to 2 lb | 2 to 3 lb | 2.5 to 3 lb |
These are sand-weight rates. Lighter materials fill the same depth with fewer pounds, so the calculator scales zeolite by about 0.85, crumb rubber by about 0.55 and organic infills by about 0.4. Those factors are approximations of bulk density relative to silica sand; the bag label is the better guide for a specific product. The background on each material is in infill types compared, and the reasoning behind the rates is in how much infill you need.
Mixing sand and zeolite for pets
For dog areas the pet mix option assumes roughly one third zeolite by weight, the rest sand. The zeolite sits in the lower and middle part of the infill layer where urine passes through, and the sand on top weighs the turf down and protects the zeolite. Some pet systems use zeolite alone at a lower rate; follow the product's guidance. See zeolite infill and pet odor prevention.
How to check you used the right amount
After brushing, part the fibers with your fingers. You should see infill sitting about one third to one half of the way up the blades, with no backing visible and no infill sitting on top of the tips. If the turf looks flat and the backing shows through, add more. If the surface feels sandy and blades look stubby, you have overdone it; let traffic and rain settle it before deciding. The application method is covered step by step in how to apply infill.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use play sand from a hardware store?
It is usually too fine and often angular or dusty. Fine sand packs into a crust that slows drainage, and dust smears on fibers. Infill sand is typically a rounded, washed 16/30 to 20/40 mesh. Look for kiln-dried, rounded silica sold for turf, which also flows through a drop spreader without clumping. See silica sand infill.
Do I need to buy extra for later?
Plan on keeping one or two spare bags. Infill migrates in traffic lanes, washes toward low edges in storms and is lost when you remove debris. Most lawns need a light top-up every one to three years, more often around dog areas and play equipment.
Is more infill always better for durability?
No. Beyond the recommended rate, infill buries the fibers, makes the surface look sandy and hot, and raises tracking into the house. The fibers do the visual work and the infill supports them. Hitting the right rate matters more than maximizing it.
Why does the calculator give a range instead of one number?
Manufacturers recommend different rates for similar products, and the right amount depends on stitch density and how much thatch the turf has. A dense product needs less. Start at the low end, brush, check the blade exposure, then add more if needed.
Does the putting green setting work for greens?
For sand-filled putting surfaces, rates depend on the product and the speed you want, and the sand is a fine, uniform grade. Use the result as a rough guide and follow the surface maker's figure. See putting green turf types.