Common Artificial Turf Problems and How to Fix Them

Artificial turf is a fantastic alternative to natural grass — it’s green year-round, low-maintenance, and highly durable. Still, like any outdoor surface, synthetic grass can develop issues over time due to installation errors, weather conditions, or general wear and tear.

The good news? Most of these problems are easy to identify and fix with the right approach. Below, we explore the most common artificial turf issues and how to effectively resolve them.

1. Uneven or Wrinkled Surface

Causes

• Poorly prepared or un-compacted base

• Temperature-related expansion or contraction

• Improper stretching during installation

How to Fix It

• Lift the affected section, stretch the turf, and re-secure using nails or adhesive

• If the base is uneven, re-level and compact with crushed rock

• Ensure a smooth and firm foundation during installation to prevent recurring wrinkles

2. Poor Drainage or Water Pooling

Causes

• Incorrect base material or lack of slope

• Clogged drainage holes

• Turf installed on uneven ground

How to Fix It

• Remove turf in affected areas and add crushed rock or sand for proper drainage

• Maintain a slight slope for water flow

• Pressure wash drainage holes to clear blockages

3. Fading or Discoloration

Causes

• Turf without UV stabilizers

• Intense sun exposure

• Harsh cleaning chemicals

How to Fix It

• Choose UV-resistant, high-quality turf

• Replace discolored areas or use turf paint for color restoration

• Avoid bleach and strong detergents

4. Loose Seams or Edges

Causes

• Insufficient adhesive

• Incorrect installation technique

• Temperature expansion and contraction

How to Fix It

• Reapply outdoor-grade turf adhesive or seam tape

• Ensure edges are clean and dry before securing

• Add infill to weigh edges down and prevent lifting

5. Odors from Pet Waste

Causes

• Pet urine trapped in infill

• Limited drainage + poor cleaning habits

• Bacterial buildup

How to Fix It

• Rinse regularly with enzyme-based cleaners

• Use pet-friendly infill that drains better

• Deep clean periodically to prevent odor return

6. Flattened or Matted Turf Fibers

Causes

• Lack of infill support

• Heavy traffic or outdoor furniture

• Infrequent brushing

How to Fix It

• Brush fibers upright with a stiff broom or power brush

• Add silica sand or rubber infill

• Maintain routine brushing for a lush appearance

7. Weed Growth at the Edges

Causes

• Missing or damaged weed barrier

• Soil and debris buildup underneath the turf

How to Fix It

• Install a weed control fabric during setup

• Remove weeds manually or use non-toxic weed control

• Avoid strong chemicals that damage backing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I prevent artificial turf issues?
Ensure proper installation: solid base, correct slope, quality materials, and regular maintenance.

How often should artificial grass be cleaned?
Weekly light cleaning + deep cleaning every few months depending on usage.

Can synthetic turf melt in high heat?
Yes — avoid heat sources like grills and reflective window glare.

Is professional maintenance necessary?
Optional but recommended annually for maximum lifespan and performance.

Final Thoughts

Artificial turf is an excellent investment for a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn — but it still needs care. By recognizing problems early and using the right repair methods, you’ll keep your turf looking fresh, vibrant, and durable for many years.

Whether you’re dealing with drainage issues, wrinkles, or pet odors — our experts can restore your turf to like-new condition!

👉 Contact us today for a free turf inspection and maintenance estimate!