In the ever-evolving world of artificial turf, infill-free systems are rapidly gaining traction due to their streamlined installation process and user-friendly maintenance. Compared to traditional infill turf, the installation of infill-free turf requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure both optimal performance and long-term durability. VivaTurf, a recognized leader in the industry, offers a range of advanced infill-free turf systems that simplify the installation process while maximizing safety, comfort, and environmental sustainability. This guide walks you through the critical steps for a successful installation—and highlights why VivaTurf stands out as the premier choice.
1. Foundation Preparation: Building a Solid Base
Laser-Level Precision
Infill-free turf demands exceptional surface flatness. The sub-base should meet a flatness tolerance of ≤3mm over 3 meters. Any irregularities in the foundation may lead to turf deformation—causing wrinkles, dips, or raised areas—which negatively affect both aesthetics and usability. For example, in a school playground, poor leveling can increase the risk of ankle injuries. If using concrete, it must be cured for at least 28 days to achieve structural integrity. Asphalt sub-bases must be crack-free, oil-free, and compacted to a density of ≥95% to provide the necessary support.
Integrated Drainage Gradient
A drainage slope between 0.2% and 0.5% is essential—particularly for outdoor applications. Proper grading ensures that water flows away from the turf, avoiding stagnation and long-term water damage. Drainage outlets should be strategically placed to avoid undermining the base structure. On sports fields like soccer pitches, proper drainage allows for quick recovery after rainfall, minimizing downtime.
Clean and Dry Conditions
Prior to installation, the base must be thoroughly cleaned and completely dry. Debris, dust, or oil can prevent effective bonding between the turf and the substrate. High-pressure washing followed by 24-hour drying is ideal. The surface moisture should not exceed 8%, verified by a plastic sheeting test—no condensation should appear under the film after 24 hours. Any cracks must be repaired with specialized fillers to prevent stress concentration under the turf.
2. Pre-Installation Planning: Careful Preparation Is Key
Inspection and Storage
Upon delivery, turf rolls should be inspected for consistency in color, specification, and batch. Variations between batches may cause visual inconsistencies, so the full volume of turf should be ordered and delivered at once. Store turf in a shaded, well-ventilated area—away from direct sunlight and heavy loads—to prevent fading or deformation. Avoid storing turf rolls longer than 30 days. Lay out the rolls for at least 24 hours before installation to release tension and reduce post-installation shrinkage.
Accurate Cutting and Layout Strategy
Minimize seams by planning a layout that maximizes the use of full rolls. Fewer seams improve both appearance and turf durability. Leave an extra 5–10 cm at the edges during cutting to allow room for adjustments and secure fixing. Use professional turf knives for clean, precise edges. For curved cuts, mark outlines with chalk and cut carefully along the lines.
3. Turf Placement and Secure Installation
Consistent Direction and Alignment
Install all rolls in the same direction so that grass fibers fall uniformly, ensuring a cohesive and polished look. Edge alignment should be within a 2mm tolerance to ensure tight, even seams. For large areas, begin from the center and work outward to ensure symmetry and prevent roll shift during installation.
Precision Seam Bonding
Seams must be expertly bonded to maintain performance and aesthetics. Separate the grass fibers to expose the backing, then use specialized 20 cm seam tape and eco-friendly polyurethane adhesive. Apply a 1–2mm layer of glue evenly and allow 10–15 minutes to dry until tacky. Press the turf edges together, and roll with a 50kg weighted roller to eliminate air bubbles. Let seams cure for 24 hours before moving forward with edge fixing.
Strong Perimeter Anchoring
Secure the perimeter using U-shaped nails (10–15 cm long, spaced 20–30 cm apart) or aluminum edging strips. Stretch the turf taut before fixing. On sloped surfaces, increase the anchor density to prevent turf slippage. For example, hillside parks require reinforced edging to handle the pull of gravity and foot traffic.
4. Detail Finishing and Quality Inspection
Brushing the Fibers
Once installed, use a power broom or stiff-bristle brush to lift and straighten the fibers, especially in compressed areas. This restores the natural appearance of the turf. Carefully trim excess fibers at seams to ensure a smooth and even surface.
Rigorous Acceptance Testing
Turf installations must meet several benchmarks:
Surface flatness: ≤5mm over 3 meters
Seam strength: ≥2N/cm peel strength
Drainage: No pooling 30 minutes after a water test
Fiber adhesion: ≥15N pull test with no fiber loss
Only turf systems that meet these standards can guarantee optimal safety, aesthetics, and performance.
5. Special Installation Considerations
Outdoor Environments
Outdoor turf requires special drainage features, such as open trench drains, to prevent waterlogging. Near trees, regularly clear leaves and fruit to avoid organic decay, which can damage the turf backing.
Athletic Fields
On sports fields like soccer or tennis courts, turf must meet impact absorption standards—minimum 50% shock attenuation. Markings such as sidelines and penalty boxes should be securely affixed using turf-specific adhesives to maintain clarity and durability.
Children’s Play Areas
In playgrounds, shock-absorbing underlays like EPDM rubber are essential to cushion falls. U-nails must be fully embedded to avoid injury, ensuring a safe environment for children.
6. Why VivaTurf Leads the Way
Next-Level Turf Technology
VivaTurf’s infill-free turf features a unique mix of straight and curled blades at a density of 20,000 fibers/m². This design provides exceptional upright fiber resilience, minimizing the need for post-installation grooming. Its high-performance backing adhesives resist weather extremes, preventing seam separation and extending turf life.
Unmatched Industry Experience
With over a decade of expertise, VivaTurf has been involved in premier global projects, including the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games and the 2023 Chengdu World University Games. Their highly trained teams develop customized installation plans based on each site’s specific needs, ensuring top-tier results.
Sustainability at the Core
VivaTurf’s systems eliminate the need for rubber and sand infill, cutting down on carbon emissions and landfill waste. Their recyclable VRG system uses homogenous materials and proprietary PO-RB and Double S+ technologies to enable 100% recycling of the entire turf system. A single standard-sized field can eliminate 50 tons of rubber incineration and 250 tons of sand landfill—delivering exceptional performance without compromising the planet.
Final Thoughts
Every step of installing infill-free artificial turf—from sub-base preparation to seam bonding—demands care and precision. VivaTurf not only simplifies this process but also enhances it through innovation, expertise, and eco-conscious design. Whether for schools, stadiums, or leisure areas, VivaTurf delivers a long-lasting, low-maintenance, and environmentally sound turf solution.