Are you a Phoenix homeowner or business owner wondering whether to DIY your artificial turf installation or hire a professional? You’re not alone!
Artificial grass is becoming increasingly popular across the Valley. According to the Synthetic Turf Council, over 265 million square feet of artificial turf are installed annually in the U.S.—and that number is growing.
Choosing between a do-it-yourself approach and hiring a qualified team like Elite Turf is a decision that can impact the quality, longevity, and performance of your new lawn. This guide will compare both options to help you make an informed choice that suits your goals and budget.
What Goes Into Artificial Turf Installation?
Whether you’re going the DIY route or calling in the pros, turf installation follows the same basic steps:
- Site preparation (removing old grass, leveling the ground)
- Base installation (gravel or decomposed granite for drainage)
- Weed barrier application
- Turf laying and cutting
- Securing turf with nails or adhesives
- Infill application (rubber or sand for stability and bounce)
- Brushing and finishing
Missing even one of these steps can result in drainage issues, wrinkles, poor durability, or an uneven appearance.
DIY Artificial Turf Installation – Pros & Cons
DIY artificial turf installation may seem appealing at first glance. You might think you’ll save money, work on your own schedule, and feel a sense of accomplishment. But let’s dig a little deeper.
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost (labor savings)
- Full control over your project
- Great for small, simple areas like balconies or dog runs
Cons:
- Lack of professional tools (plate compactors, turf cutters)
- Time-consuming and physically demanding
- Higher risk of improper drainage, seam issues, or wrinkles
- May void product warranties if improperly installed
According to HomeAdvisor, mistakes in DIY installations can cost 2x more to fix than hiring a professional from the start.
Hiring a Professional Turf Installer – What You Get
If you’re considering residential artificial turf installation or commercial turf installation, professionals bring a lot to the table.
Pros:
- Access to commercial-grade tools and materials
- Proper base compaction and drainage setup
- Expertise in cutting and seaming
- Warranty on workmanship and materials
- Fast, efficient job completion
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost (labor and overhead)
- Must schedule around the installer’s availability
With professionals like Elite Turf, the investment pays off in performance, longevity, and appearance.
Cost Comparison – DIY vs. Professional Installation
| Cost Component | DIY | Professional |
| Turf Material (per sq. ft.) | $3 – $6 | $3 – $6 |
| Base Material | $300 – $600 | Included in total estimate |
| Tool Rental | $200 – $400 | Included |
| Labor | Free (your time) | $2,000 – $2,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $2,000 – $3,500 | $4,000 – $5,500 |
| Warranty | None or limited | 8–15 years (material + labor) |
While DIY may save up to 40-50% in labor, a poorly installed turf will wear out faster and require reinstallation—costing more in the long run.
Quality & Longevity – Why Experience Matters
One of the biggest downsides to DIY is the risk of poor results. Artificial turf must be installed correctly to:
- Prevent flooding
- Avoid sinking or shifting over time
- Keep seams invisible
- Ensure softness and safety for kids and pets
Hiring a certified, insured, and experienced crew—like Elite Turf—ensures your lawn lasts 15–20 years with proper care.
How DIY Affects Turf Warranty
Most artificial grass manufacturers offer warranties—but they often require professional installation.
DIY installation may void your warranty, especially if it leads to drainage issues, seam failure, or base settling. If you’re investing thousands in materials, it’s worth protecting that investment by hiring a certified installer.
What to Expect from a Professional Turf Installation Company
Professional installation involves more than just laying turf. Here’s what Elite Turf offers during a standard project:
- Free consultation and quote
- Site inspection and soil analysis
- Drainage planning and grading
- Premium turf selection and sourcing
- Precision cutting and seaming
- Infill application and brushing
- Final walkthrough and client satisfaction check
Want to get started? You can request a quote from Elite Turf to explore your options today.
Residential vs. Commercial Turf Installation
The choice between DIY and professional work also depends on the project type.
| Type | Best Approach | Why |
| Backyard lawn | Professional | Large size, drainage and slope considerations |
| Dog run (small) | DIY or Professional | DIY possible with limited digging |
| Rooftop or balcony | DIY or Pro | May not need excavation, easier to manage |
| School playground | Professional | Requires cushioning, safety standards |
| Commercial landscape | Professional | Heavy foot traffic needs expert installation |
For large, high-use areas, commercial artificial turf installation should always be left to the pros.
Tips to Maximize Turf Performance
To keep your lawn looking perfect for years, follow these expert tips:
- Use a proper sub-base (minimum 3 inches of compacted crushed rock)
- Install a weed barrier to block unwanted growth
- Use the right infill (e.g., silica sand for softness, rubber for bounce)
- Brush your turf regularly to prevent matting
- Schedule yearly maintenance to extend lifespan
Need professional upkeep? Ask Elite Turf about their turf maintenance packages to keep your lawn in peak condition.
Conclusion: Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
Installing artificial turf is more than a weekend project—it’s a long-term investment. While DIY may sound tempting, it comes with risks, especially for larger lawns or spaces with complex terrain.
Hiring a pro ensures that your turf is installed correctly, safely, and beautifully. If you want a flawless, long-lasting lawn, trust Elite Turf—Phoenix’s go-to team for both residential and commercial turf projects.
Let our certified experts handle everything for you—from design to clean-up. Request a quote today and see why thousands of homeowners and businesses trust Elite Turf.
FAQs
How long does professional installation take?
Most projects are completed in 1–3 days, depending on size and complexity. Larger areas or custom projects may take longer.
Is it cheaper to install turf yourself?
Upfront, yes. But improper installation can shorten turf life or lead to reinstallation—costing more over time.
Will I get a warranty with DIY turf installation?
No. Most turf product warranties are valid only if installed by a certified professional.
What tools are needed for DIY turf installation?
You’ll need a plate compactor, turf cutter, utility knife, landscape nails, wheelbarrow, rake, and broom. Tool rental adds to your total cost.
