The difference between a artificial turf project that lasts and one that becomes a callback is almost always in the details that don't show up in a low bid.
These are the specs and design decisions our team insists on for every Houston home — the ones that quietly separate a real professional install from a cheap one.
1. Proper base depth and compaction
Four inches of compacted decomposed granite or crushed concrete is the floor. Skimp on base and youll get ruts by year two.
2. Drainage designed for Houston rainfall
A 4-inch base with perforated pipe to daylight handles 3–5 inch downpours. Standing water grows algae under the turf.
3. Pet-grade infill if you have dogs
Antimicrobial zeolite or coated silica prevents ammonia buildup. Standard sand infill will smell within a season.
4. UV-stabilized fibers
Houston sun destroys cheap turf in 3 years. Look for warranted UV ratings of 8+ years on the yarn itself.
5. Secured perimeter with buried nailer
Bender board or a buried 2x4 nailer keeps edges from lifting. Loose edges are how turf projects fail visually.
The bottom line
Any of these can be skipped to hit a lower price — and every one of them will show up as a problem within a few years. Ask any contractor bidding your artificial turf project which of these are included, in writing. The honest ones welcome the question.
If you'd like to walk through what these look like on your specific home, our team is happy to do a no-pressure consultation.
