Blog #029: How Often Should You Add Infill to Artificial Turf? What Homeowners Need to Know

When homeowners think about maintaining artificial turf, they usually focus on brushing the fibers, rinsing away dirt, or removing leaves. While these are all important, one essential part of turf maintenance is often overlooked:

Maintaining the proper amount of infill.

Infill is one of the key components that helps artificial turf perform the way it was designed. Over time, however, infill naturally settles, shifts, or is displaced through normal use.

So, how often should you add more infill?

The answer depends on how your lawn is used, but regular inspections and timely replenishment can significantly extend the life and appearance of your artificial turf.

In this blog, we'll explain what infill does, why it matters, and how to know when it's time to add more.

What Is Infill?

Infill is the material placed between the blades of artificial turf after installation.

Common types of infill include:

• Silica sand
• Coated sand
• Acrylic-coated sand
• Antimicrobial infill
• Zeolite infill (popular for pet areas)
• Organic or specialty infills

Although you may not notice it, infill is doing important work every day.

Why Is Infill Important?

Infill is much more than just "sand" inside your turf.

It helps:

• Keep turf fibers standing upright
• Add weight to hold the turf in place
• Improve durability
• Enhance drainage
• Reduce wear from foot traffic
• Provide a more comfortable walking surface
• Protect the backing from UV exposure

Without enough infill, even premium artificial turf can begin to lose its appearance and performance.

Does Infill Wear Out?

Infill doesn't usually wear out—but it does move and settle over time.

This is completely normal.

Several factors contribute to infill loss, including:

Heavy Foot Traffic

Walking, running, and playing gradually move infill from frequently used areas.

Pets

Dogs can displace infill while running, playing, or digging.

Pet waste cleanup and frequent rinsing may also wash away small amounts over time.

Weather

Heavy rain, strong winds, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles can cause minor movement or settling.

Routine Maintenance

Brushing and cleaning help keep your turf healthy but may also redistribute or slightly reduce infill levels over the years.

How Often Should You Check Infill?

Rather than adding infill on a fixed schedule, it's best to inspect your turf at least once a year.

For most residential lawns:

• Inspect annually.
• Add infill only when needed.

However, if your lawn experiences heavy use—such as children playing, frequent entertaining, or active pets—you may want to inspect it every 6 to 12 months.

Regular inspections help identify small issues before they affect the appearance or performance of the turf.

Signs Your Turf Needs More Infill

Your lawn will usually tell you when infill levels are getting low.

Look for these signs:

Turf Fibers Are Laying Flat

If brushing no longer helps the blades stand upright, additional infill may be needed to support the fibers.

The Surface Feels Harder

A noticeable increase in firmness can indicate that the infill has settled too low.

You Can See More of the Backing

If the black backing material becomes visible between the fibers, it's a sign that the turf may need additional infill.

Uneven Areas

High-traffic zones may appear lower than surrounding sections because infill has shifted away.

Increased Wrinkling or Movement

Infill helps stabilize the turf. Low infill levels may allow sections of turf to shift slightly during use.

Can You Add Infill Yourself?

Yes.

For small residential areas, many homeowners can replenish infill themselves.

The process generally involves:

• Cleaning the turf
• Evenly spreading the recommended infill
• Brushing the fibers upright
• Working the infill down into the turf

Using the correct type and amount of infill is important. Adding too much can reduce drainage and make the turf feel firm, while too little won't provide adequate support.

How Much Infill Should Be Added?

There isn't a universal amount because every installation is different.

The proper quantity depends on:

• turf pile height
• type of turf
• intended use
• existing infill level

Rather than guessing, inspect the turf and replenish only where needed.

If you're unsure, a professional turf inspection can determine the correct amount.

Benefits of Maintaining Proper Infill Levels

Keeping the proper amount of infill helps:

• Maintain a natural appearance
• Extend the lifespan of your turf
• Improve drainage performance
• Reduce premature wear
• Increase comfort underfoot
• Support turf fibers so they remain upright

Think of infill as the hidden support system that helps your artificial lawn perform at its best.

Professional Maintenance Can Make a Difference

Although artificial turf requires far less maintenance than natural grass, occasional professional service can help keep it looking like new.

Professional maintenance may include:

• power brushing
• infill redistribution
• adding new infill where needed
• debris removal
• inspection of seams and edges

Routine maintenance helps maximize the return on your investment.

Final Thoughts

Artificial turf is designed to provide years of beauty with minimal maintenance—but minimal maintenance doesn't mean no maintenance.

Checking your infill levels once a year and replenishing them when necessary is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment.

Proper infill helps your turf stay:

• lush
• comfortable
• durable
• attractive

for many years to come.

Up next on blog #030: How to Clean Dark Spots on Artificial Turf — Causes, Safe Cleaning Methods & Prevention