Artificial Turf Infill Types: What You Need to Know

Infill is the material spread between artificial turf fibers after installation. It serves several critical functions: weighing down the turf, keeping blades upright, providing cushion underfoot, and supporting drainage. The type of infill you choose affects how the turf feels, how it handles heat, whether it controls pet odors, and how much it costs. Most homeowners do not think about infill until after installation — but it is worth understanding your options before you sign a contract.

Infill Comparison

Detailed Breakdown

Silica Sand

The most common and affordable infill option. Silica sand is round, kiln-dried sand that provides good weight and drainage. It works well for general residential lawn applications where pets are not a primary concern. The main drawback is that it offers no odor control and can retain heat in direct sunlight, making the turf surface hotter on warm days.

Crumb Rubber

Made from recycled tires, crumb rubber has been the standard infill for sports fields and playgrounds for decades. It provides excellent cushion, good drainage, and durability. In residential settings, crumb rubber has fallen out of favor due to health concerns (though no definitive link to health risks has been established), a rubber smell in hot weather, and its tendency to track indoors on shoes and pet paws.

Zeolite

Zeolite is a naturally occurring volcanic mineral with a honeycomb-like molecular structure that absorbs and neutralizes ammonia — the primary odor compound in pet urine. It is the most effective infill for pet areas and is widely recommended by turf manufacturers for dog runs and yards with pets. Zeolite needs to be replaced or replenished every 2-3 years as its absorption capacity diminishes.

Acrylic-Coated Sand (Durafill)

Durafill and similar acrylic-coated sands offer a middle ground between basic silica sand and premium infills. The acrylic coating provides mild antimicrobial properties, a softer feel than raw sand, and slightly cooler surface temperatures. It is a good all-purpose choice for residential installations where pet odor control is desired but not the primary concern.

Cooling Infill (T-Cool, HydroChill)

Cooling infills are designed to reduce surface temperature by absorbing moisture and releasing it through evaporation when temperatures rise. They can lower turf surface temperature by 30-50°F compared to standard infill. The catch: they require periodic wetting to maintain their cooling effect and are the most expensive option. They are most practical in hot, dry climates like Arizona and Nevada.

Cork Infill

A natural, organic option made from granulated cork oak. Cork infill is lightweight, antimicrobial, and stays cooler than sand or rubber. It is an appealing option for environmentally conscious homeowners. The main concerns are its light weight (can shift in heavy rain or wind) and higher cost. Cork works best in sheltered areas that are not subject to heavy rainfall or flooding.

Which Infill Should You Choose?

• General residential lawn: Silica sand or acrylic-coated sand — affordable and effective
• Pet areas and dog runs: Zeolite for maximum odor control
• Hot climates with full sun: Cooling infill like T-Cool or HydroChill
• Children's play areas: Acrylic-coated sand or cork for cushion without rubber concerns
• Eco-friendly priority: Cork or zeolite (both natural materials)

Discuss Infill Options with Your Installer

Your contractor should be able to recommend the right infill based on your usage, climate, and budget. If an installer only offers one infill option, ask why and consider getting additional opinions. Browse Turf Install Pros to find experienced contractors in Texas, Arizona, California, Florida, and Nevada.

Related guides: Pet Turf Guide · Turf Maintenance Guide · Artificial Turf Installation Cost Guide