Choose the turf that fits your balcony or yard
Canadian weather throws snow, rain, and intense sun at outdoor surfaces. The right turf pairing keeps water moving and fibres resilient season after season. Work through the checkpoints below before you place an order.
1. Inspect your base
Turf can sit on concrete, pressure-treated wood, compacted gravel, or roof membranes. The base just needs to be smooth, stable, and able to drain.
- Confirm the surface drains away from your home or has a clear scupper.
- Inspect for sharp screws or rail brackets that could pinch the turf backing.
- Measure the longest and widest points and note any corners or cut-outs.
If your balcony slopes toward the building, add plastic shims under the far edge so water continues toward the exterior drain.
2. Match the turf to the use case
Each Rugbasics turf has distinct fibre height, backing weight, and feel. Start with how you plan to use the surface, then narrow in on look and budget.
Balcony Turf
- Low 22 mm pile that resists wind uplift.
- Cuts easily with shears or a utility blade.
- Friendly for renters—typically installs with tape only.
Everyday Turf
- Balanced 30 mm pile with dual-tone fibres.
- Perforated polyurethane backing for fast drainage.
- Great for kids and pets thanks to springy thatch.
Deluxe Turf
- Lush 38 mm pile with temperature-moderating pigment.
- Heaviest backing keeps seams flat on rooftop decks.
- Most realistic look for entertaining areas.
3. Plan seams and orientation
Turf fibres lean slightly in one direction. Lay pieces so the grain points away from the primary viewing angle for the most natural look.
- Keep seams minimal by ordering lengths that match the longest dimension of the space.
- Overlap pieces by 2" when dry fitting, then cut both layers together for an invisible joint.
- Brush fibres upright before taping seams so the thatch interlocks.
4. Decide on infill
Infill adds weight and keeps blades standing tall, but it is optional for many balcony installs. Use the notes below to decide.
Skip infill for balconies
Most elevated installs do not need infill. Weight from furniture and perimeter tape keeps the turf anchored, and drainage stays unrestricted.
Use 1 lb/ft² for high-traffic patios
Silica sand brushed into the fibres adds weight and keeps blades upright. Focus on seams and transitions.
Consider pet infill
If pets use the space daily, an antimicrobial infill controls odour. Rinse weekly to keep things fresh.
Need help calculating rolls?
Email a quick sketch with measurements to hello@rugbasics.com. We'll map seams, recommend infill, and send a quote with shipping timelines.