Why artificial turf works in Louisiana—when it’s built right

Heat, humidity, heavy rain, shade from live oaks, and clay soils make natural lawns tough. Artificial turf & putting greens for Louisiana yards can solve mud, mowing, and bald spots—if the base drains, seams hold, and materials are chosen for our climate. We design turf systems that look natural, drain fast, and stay cool enough to enjoy.

Great for: courtyards, pool surrounds, pet runs, play lawns, side yards, rooftops, and custom putting greens from New Orleans to the Northshore.

Our Louisiana‑ready turf system (what’s under the green matters most)

Subgrade prep – Strip organics, proof‑roll, correct soft spots. Target 1–2% slope toward drains or daylight.
Base rock – Open‑graded #57 stone (4–6") with a #8 or stone screenings (½–1") choker for smoothness. Compacted in lifts to ~95%.
Edging – Concrete mow strip or composite bender board; secure with spikes at 12–18". Prevents creep and keeps lines crisp.
Geotextile (as needed) – Non‑woven fabric to separate fines and boost stability; optional weed barrier only where appropriate.
Underdrain (site‑specific) – 4" perf pipe in #57 stone for slow‑draining clay pockets; tie to legal discharge.
Turf selection – UV‑stable polyethylene with thatch layer; urethane or multi‑layer backing with punched/perforated drainage. Tuft bind ≥ 8 lb for durability.
Seams & perimeters – Urethane adhesive + seaming tape (no on‑seam nails). Perimeter nails/staples every 4–6"; roll and set.
Infill – Rounded silica sand for ballast and blade support; antimicrobial or odor‑control infill in pet areas (zeolite/encapsulated options). For heat relief, optional cool‑tech infills.

We avoid old‑style “shock pads” unless for play areas; in Louisiana humidity they can trap moisture without proper venting.

Turf choices for different Louisiana uses

Premium lawn look (front & back yards)

Pile height: 1.5–1.75" with multi‑tone blades and thatch.
Face weight: 60–80 oz/sq yd for a dense, natural feel.
Where it shines: shady courtyards, between pavers, around pools.

Pet turf zones

Backing: perforated or fully permeable; antimicrobial treatment helps in humidity.
Infill: odor‑absorbing; rinse and enzyme‑clean as needed.
Design tip: add a hidden hose bib/quick‑connect and a slight cross‑slope to a drain.

Play lawns & sport strips

Pile height: 1.25–1.5" with durable thatch; optional shock pad for fall areas.
Edge control: recessed edges at hardscapes to prevent trip lips.

Custom putting greens (backyards & courtyards)

Turf: 3/8–1/2" short pile, tufted tight; Stimp 9–12 depending on infill amount.
Base: laser‑graded with smooth choker; cup sleeves set on concrete donuts.
Fringe: 1.25–1.5" pile for a realistic collar; blends to lawn turf.
Breaks: shape with base, not shims; micro undulations keep it fun without “gimmicks.”

Around pools: heat, splash, and safety

Heat: All turf warms in sun. We mitigate with light‑to‑mid green tones, shade sails/pergolas, trees, and cool infills. Provide a stone or porcelain “cool path” for bare feet.
Water: Chlorinated/salt splash is fine—rinse occasionally. Ensure slot/channel drains between coping and turf to catch sheet flow.
Fire pits: Use hardscape borders; embers can melt turf fibers.

Maintenance in Louisiana humidity (quick routine)

Weekly: blower + quick debris pickup; rinse pet zones as needed.
Monthly: cross‑brush high‑traffic areas to lift pile and redistribute infill.
Quarterly: enzyme treatment for pet areas; check seams and edges.
After storms: clear leaves, check drains, top up infill if displaced.

Common questions (FAQ)

Does turf flood in heavy rain?
Not when the base is right. Open‑graded stone + choker creates a fast‑draining layer. We add underdrains if soils are slow and tie to legal discharge.

Will turf grow mold or smell in our humidity?
Quality backing and ventilation plus the right infill prevent odors. Rinse pet areas and use enzyme cleaners—especially in summer.

How hot does turf get?
Warmer than natural grass in full sun. We use lighter tones, shade, and cool infills; stone “landing pads” give feet a break.

Can you edge turf to existing pavers or decks?
Yes—best practice is a 2–4" hard border or bender board. We set turf slightly below adjacent surfaces to avoid trip edges.

What about tree roots?
We respect root zones of live oaks and pines, use air‑spade methods where needed, and route underdrains outside critical areas.

How many cups on a backyard green?
Most 300–500 sq ft greens get 3–4 cups with one chipping area; larger greens can add a second tier or gentle double‑break.

Our design‑build process

Consultation & laser measure – Map drains, slopes, sun, and pet/play patterns.
Turf & infill selection – Samples and on‑site mockups for color and pile height.
Base & edge plan – Spot elevations, drain locations, and edging details.
Installation – Base build, set edges, seam/shape turf, infill, brush, and roll.
Handover – Care guide, warranty info, and a grooming brush.

Artificial Turf & Putting Greens for Louisiana Yards