How to Choose the Right Turf
Picking the right turf doesn't have to be complicated. Just answer these four questions and you'll be 90% of the way there.
What will the turf be used for?
A lawn area is different from a pet run, which is different from a putting green. Each use case has specific requirements around pile height, drainage, and fiber type. Start here before anything else.
What's your budget per square foot?
Turf ranges from budget-friendly options (great durability, less realistic appearance) to premium products that are nearly indistinguishable from real grass. Knowing your budget helps us point you to the right tier.
How much foot traffic will it see?
Light foot traffic (decorative lawn) can use softer, lower face-weight turf. High-traffic areas (dogs, kids, parties) need a heavier face weight and more resilient fiber for long-term durability.
Does the look matter more than anything?
For curb appeal and front yards where appearance is everything, we'll steer you toward turf with mixed blade colors and realistic texture. If function beats aesthetics (pet run, utility area), we can save you money.
How Turf Pricing Works
Turf is typically sold by the square foot or by the roll. The price you pay depends on a few key factors:
- Face weight — Higher face weight = more fiber = more realistic look and feel = higher cost.
- Pile height — Taller blades use more material. Putting greens are low-pile and often more affordable per foot.
- Fiber type — Nylon is more durable and expensive. Polyethylene is softer. Polypropylene is most affordable.
- Volume — Larger orders and contractor accounts receive volume pricing. Ask us about bulk pricing.
Pro Tip
Always measure your area first and add 10–15% for waste and cuts. A quote based on accurate measurements will always be more accurate than a rough estimate.
Everything You Need to Know About Pet Turf
Is it safe for my dogs?
Yes. Our pet turf is non-toxic, free of heavy metals, and tested to be safe for animals. The antimicrobial backing prevents bacteria growth.
How do I clean it?
Rinse with a garden hose for liquid waste. For solid waste, remove it and rinse the area. Occasional enzymatic deodorizer spray helps with odor over time.
Will it get hot in Tucson?
Turf does absorb heat in direct summer sun. A quick rinse with water cools it down in minutes. You can also look at cooling infill options for areas with heavy pet use.
Will my dog try to dig it up?
Some dogs dig initially out of curiosity but most stop quickly. Professional installation with a secure perimeter edge makes digging very difficult.
Window Burn — The #1 Cause of Preventable Turf Damage
Low-E and double-pane windows are designed to reflect heat — but that reflected energy doesn't just disappear. Under the right angle of sunlight, these windows act like a magnifying glass, concentrating a beam that can reach 200°F or higher. At that temperature, synthetic turf fibers melt within minutes, leaving permanent burn scars that are not covered under warranty.
We see this in Tucson every summer — and it's almost always preventable.
How to Protect Your Turf
Install window film or exterior screens
Anti-reflective solar film applied to at-risk windows diffuses the beam before it reaches the ground. Exterior solar screens are even more effective and double as UV protection for your home.
Keep turf 3+ feet from reflective glass
If windows face your turf area at a low angle, a planting buffer or decorative gravel strip between the glass and the turf edge provides a simple safety zone.
Tell us before we install
Our crew checks for reflective window exposure during every site visit. If we spot a risk, we'll flag it and recommend a solution before the turf goes down — not after.
Maintenance Tips
One of the biggest benefits of artificial turf is how little maintenance it requires. But a few simple habits will keep it looking great for years.
Brush the fibers occasionally
Use a stiff-bristled broom or power broom to keep fibers upright, especially in high-traffic areas. Do this every few months or whenever the turf looks flat.
Rinse with water
A monthly rinse with a garden hose removes dust, pollen, and light debris. In Tucson's dusty climate, a rinse after monsoon season is especially helpful.
Remove debris promptly
Leaves, twigs, and other debris should be removed with a leaf blower or rake. Don't let organic material build up, as it can attract insects over time.
Avoid heat sources & window burn
Keep BBQ grills and fire pits away from turf. Reflective Low-E windows are also a serious hazard — concentrated sunlight can melt fibers in minutes. See the full window burn warning ↑
How Turf Drainage Works
All of our turf products have perforated backing that allows water to drain through. This is one of the biggest advantages over natural grass — there's no pooling or muddy patches.
The drainage rate depends on the turf product and the base preparation. Standard turf drains at around 20–30 inches per hour. Our enhanced pet turf drains at 30–40 inches per hour.
Proper base preparation is critical. A correctly graded crushed granite or decomposed granite base ensures water drains away from the turf and doesn't pool underneath. When in doubt, ask your installer about slope and base prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most quality turf products last 15–20 years with proper care. Pet turf sees slightly more wear and typically lasts 12–15 years. The base preparation and installation quality are just as important as the turf product itself.
No watering is required to keep it green. You may want to rinse it occasionally for cleaning or to cool it down on very hot days, but that's entirely optional.
Turf does absorb heat in direct sunlight. Surface temperatures can exceed air temperature significantly on hot days. A quick rinse with water cools it down quickly. Infill options like cork or organic crumb can also help reduce heat absorption.
Infill is a material (usually sand, rubber, or organic material) spread between the turf blades. It helps fibers stand upright, adds weight so turf stays flat, and provides cushioning. Most installations benefit from some infill. Ask us what we recommend for your specific product.
Yes, turf can be a DIY project for simpler areas. However, for large areas, complex shapes, or where drainage is critical, professional installation is recommended. We work with many local contractors and can refer you to trusted installers.
In Arizona's climate, artificial turf saves significant amounts of water — often 50–70 gallons per square foot per year compared to natural grass. It also eliminates the need for pesticides, fertilizers, and gas-powered mowers. End-of-life recycling options are available for many turf products.
We sell to everyone. Homeowners are welcome — no contractor license required. We just ask that you know your square footage so we can put together an accurate quote for you.