How much sand do you need for artificial grass?

So, you've taken the plunge and decided to install beautiful, low-maintenance artificial grass. Smart move! But now you're faced with a crucial question: how much sand infill do you actually need? Getting this right is the difference between a lawn that looks pristine for years and one that wrinkles, drains poorly, and feels unstable.

If you do not have enough sand, your turf will not anchor well. Too much, and you risk compromising drainage and that natural, soft feel.

But don't worry. This blog will give you the right amount of sand for each square meter of artificial grass. It will also explain why and how to make sure your installation is perfect and lasts a long time.

1. Why Does Artificial Grass Even Need Sand?

When laying artificial turf, filling it with sharp sand or quartz sand, is a key step. This step affects how well the turf performs and how long it lasts.

• Stability: The sand layer compacts the turf, preventing displacement, wrinkling, or lifting caused by temperature fluctuations or foot traffic.
• Fiber Support: It helps grass blades stand upright, giving the lawn a lush and full appearance while providing greater comfort underfoot.
• Drainage Aid: High-quality silica sand is free-draining. It helps water quickly flow through the turf and down into the sub-base, preventing puddles.
• UV Protection: The sand layer effectively blocks direct UV rays from reaching the base fabric, reducing wear and tear and extending the turf's lifespan.
• Cooling Effect: Compared to unfilled turf, infill sand helps reduce the surface temperature of the turf.

2. Sharp Sand per m² for Artificial Turf

The specific amount of sharp sand required per square meter depends on the type of turf, the usage scenario and the height of the grass. The recommended amount of sharp sand required in different scenarios is as follows:

Generally speaking, standard sports fields or high-frequency-use lawns require greater sharp sand to ensure adequate durability and resilience.

3. Empirical Formula for Filling Amount Estimation

For ease of calculation, a simple formula is often used as a reference in the industry:

Filling height of sharp sand ≈ 1/3 to 1/2 of grass height

Take artificial turf with a grass height of 40mm as an example:

1/3 height ≈ 13mm

Required sharp sand ≈ 8kg/㎡

This ratio can provide necessary support without overfilling and flattening the grass, affecting the appearance and elasticity.

4. Reasonable filling to extend service life

Filling with sharp sand is not only a step in the construction process of artificial turf, but also a guarantee to improve the stability, safety and comfort of the turf. Reasonable filling amount (between 5-10kg/㎡) should be adjusted according to the actual turf type and purpose, and high-quality quartz sand should be selected. The correct filling method can keep the artificial turf as good as new for many years, truly exerting its economic and practical value.

5. How to Properly Lay the Sand Infill

Knowing the amount is half the battle; applying it correctly is the other half.

Prepare the Base: Ensure your sub-base (usually compacted granite or limestone dust) is perfectly level and compacted.

Lay and Secure the Turf: Roll out your artificial grass and secure it around the edges.

Use a Drop Spreader: This is the best tool for the job. It ensures an incredibly even distribution, preventing clumps and bare spots.

The Two-Pass Method:

First Pass: Apply about half of your total sand. Use a stiff-bristled broom or a power brush to work the sand down into the pile.

Second Pass: Apply the remaining half and brush again. This method ensures the sand reaches the base and doesn't just sit on top of the blades.

Final Brush: Give the lawn a final, gentle brush against the grain to fluff up the grass blades for a perfect, natural finish.