DIY vs Professional: When & Why to Use a Pro for Synthetic Turf in the PNW
Homeowners across Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and the Puget Sound are choosing synthetic turf as a smart alternative to natural grass. The benefits are obvious: no mowing, no mud, lower water bills, and a yard that looks green all year.
But a big question comes up again and again:
“Should I install artificial grass myself, or hire a professional turf installer?”
The answer depends on your budget, the size of your project, and whether you want your turf to last 15+ years in our rainy Pacific Northwest climate.
What DIY Artificial Grass Installation in Tacoma Looks Like
For homeowners thinking about tackling their own project, here’s what to expect. DIY turf installation usually requires:
-
Dump trailer rental to haul away sod and soil.
-
Machinery rentals (plate compactor, skid steer) to excavate and grade the base.
-
Base rock and sand to build a stable foundation for drainage.
-
Edging materials (bender board, steel edging, SnapEdge).
-
Infill products (sand, Envirofill, Green Diamond Performance Infill).
-
Artificial grass itself — typically purchased retail or wholesale for $2.50 – $6.00 per sq. ft.
DIY installation can work for small areas — a narrow side yard, dog run, or small putting green — but it requires time, tools, and physical labor.
Why DIY Turf Installations Struggle in the Puget Sound Climate
Here in Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and across the Puget Sound, the climate adds extra challenges for artificial grass installation:
- Drainage problems: Heavy rain means the base must be graded perfectly or the turf can flood.
- Moss and shade: Without proper prep, moss can creep into seams and edges.
- Seam visibility: Many DIY projects end up with visible lines where turf rolls meet.
- Unstable edges: Without pro-grade edging, turf shifts or pulls back over time.
- Time commitment: What seems like a weekend job often takes weeks.
Professional Synthetic Turf Installation in Tacoma & Gig Harbor
Hiring a local expert ensures the project is done right the first time. At Synthetic Turf of Puget Sound, our installations include:
- Proper excavation and grading for long-term drainage in PNW soils.
- Compacted rock base that won’t sink or shift.
- Invisible seams using S-seam and puzzle seam techniques.
- Edging built to last — from SnapEdge to natural stone to corten steel.
- Infill options tailored to your use (Envirofill for pets, Green Diamond for budget install or front yards).
- Warranty protection so you get peace of mind.
Because we’re local, we understand how the Northwest’s rain, moss, and slopes affect artificial turf — and we build with that in mind.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional Artificial Turf Installation
Potential DIY Costs in Tacoma / Gig Harbor:
Turf: $2.50 – $6.00 per sq. ft.
Truck and Dump trailer rental: $150 – $300 per day
Machinery rental (Skid Steer, Plate Compactor, etc) : $100 – $400+ per day
Base rock, sand, edging, adhesives, infill: $1.50 – $4.00 per sq. ft.
- Tools/supplies: $200 – $500
Total DIY cost: Around $9+ per sq. ft., plus weeks of labor.
Professional Costs for Artificial Grass in the Puget Sound Area:
- Full-service installation (turf, base, edging, infill, cleanup, labor): $11 – $16 per sq. ft.
While professional installation costs more upfront, it saves you:
- Labor and rental fees
- Risk of drainage mistakes or visible seams
- Long-term costs of repairs or re-doing work
Most importantly, professional installation ensures your turf looks beautiful and performs for 15+ years.
When to DIY & When to Hire a Tacoma Turf Installer
DIY makes sense for:
- Small projects under 200 sq. ft.
- Projects that don't include any seams and complex measurements
- Homeowners with landscaping or construction experience
- Temporary or low-traffic areas
Hire a professional for:
- Full backyard turf installations
- Playgrounds, pool surrounds, or dog runs
- Sloped or drainage-sensitive yards in the Puget Sound
- Long-term warranty protection and peace of mind
Final Thoughts
If you’re installing artificial grass in Tacoma, Gig Harbor, or anywhere in the Puget Sound, DIY might work for small spaces, but professional installation guarantees your turf is built to last, plus you can let us do the hard work!
At Synthetic Turf of Puget Sound, we’re a family owned local company with years of experience installing turf across backyards, playgrounds, and pet areas in the Pacific Northwest. Our goal is simple: to give homeowners a beautiful, low-maintenance yard without the stress of DIY mistakes.
Thinking about turf for your home? Reach out today for a free, no-pressure estimate — and let’s create a green space you can enjoy for years.
Frequently Asked Questions: Artificial Grass in Tacoma & the Puget Sound
Q: Does artificial grass drain well in Tacoma’s heavy rain?
Yes. Modern synthetic turf is built with perforated backing that allows water to pass through quickly. The key is proper base prep and grading, which is why professional installation makes a big difference in the Pacific Northwest climate.
Q: How long does synthetic turf last in the Puget Sound?
Most quality turf products last 15–20 years and up with proper installation and care. Professional installs help maximize lifespan by preventing base settling, seam separation, and drainage issues.
Q: Is artificial grass safe for dogs in Gig Harbor and Tacoma?
Absolutely. Pet-friendly turf combined with Envirofill Infill makes cleanup easy and helps control odors. Many of our local projects are specifically designed for dog owners.
Q: How much does artificial turf cost to install in Tacoma?
DIY installs can typically run at $9+ per sq. ft., depending on materials and equipment rentals. Professional installations average $11 – $16 per sq. ft. in the Puget Sound area, depending on project size and complexity.
Q: Can artificial turf handle moss and shade in the Northwest?
Yes, but it requires proper installation. Turf doesn’t grow moss the way natural grass does, but shaded, damp areas can still collect debris from the surrounding landscape. Nylon putting green can be susceptible to moss over time. Regular cleaning and infill maintenance keep will turf looking fresh.
