November 28, 2025
Artificial grass has become a popular choice for New Zealand homes, schools, and commercial spaces thanks to its low maintenance, year-round greenery, and durable performance. But one part of the installation process often gets overlooked: the infill. The type of sand you use plays a major role in how your synthetic turf looks, feels, and performs over time.
If you’re preparing for a new turf installation or refreshing an existing one, choosing the right infill is essential for longevity, safety, and overall appearance. This guide breaks down the different types of sand commonly used for turf, their pros and cons, and how to apply infill correctly to achieve the best possible results.
Infill refers to the sand or other material added on top of synthetic turf blades once installation is complete. It settles into the fibres, helping the turf stand upright and remain stable underfoot.
Even high-quality turf needs the correct infill to perform as intended.
Below are the most common types of sand used in NZ installations and what you should know about each.
Washed silica sand is the most widely recommended infill option for residential and light-commercial turf in New Zealand.
Kiln-dried sand is a super-dry, extremely fine sand used in more specialised applications. Because it flows easily, it’s ideal for installations requiring very precise infill distribution.
Zeolite is not a sand, but a natural mineral often used as an alternative infill—particularly in homes with dogs.
Commonly used in stadiums and multi-sport facilities, crumb rubber provides superior shock absorption.
This option is mostly reserved for professional sports applications.
For most NZ homeowners and general landscaping projects, washed silica sand is the top recommendation due to its stability, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with all major turf brands.
This is why, in most residential installations, installers regularly choose best sand for artificial grass as an infill option that meets both performance and aesthetic requirements.
The amount of infill depends on:
As a general guide:
Professional installers will calculate these amounts during your site assessment.
Applying infill correctly is just as important as choosing the right material.
Use a drop spreader or shovel to distribute sand uniformly across the turf surface.
After each light layer of sand, brush the turf using a stiff broom or power broom to help fibres stand up and ensure even distribution.
Uneven piles can create dips or hard patches.
A soft hose spray helps settle the sand deeper into the fibres.
Apply additional layers until you achieve the recommended depth for your turf product.
While synthetic turf is low maintenance, infill levels can lower over several years due to:
Well-maintained infill extends the life of your turf and keeps it looking lush.
Choosing the right sand infill is crucial to the performance and longevity of artificial grass. Washed silica sand remains the most reliable option for most New Zealand homes, offering excellent drainage, stability, and value. Kiln-dried sand, zeolite, and crumb rubber also have their place — but they suit specific installations or performance needs.
With the correct infill and proper application, your synthetic turf will stay upright, clean, and resilient for many years.
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Whether you need a surface solution for sports, leisure, or landscaping, our product range and expertise are second to none. Our experts are with you all the way, from selection to installation to maintenance: we pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service. So, what would you like to do next?
