The Top 8 Questions to Ask When Hiring an Artificial Turf Cleaning Company

When interviewing a turf cleaning company, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure you hire a reputable and experienced provider. Avoid hiring novice companies with only two or three years of experience. Instead, seek out companies with extensive experience in both turf installation and professional cleaning.

The best turf cleaning companies should have a deep understanding of various installation methods and materials. Their expertise in these areas ensures they can provide high-quality turf cleaning services without damaging your turf. 

Look for companies that can demonstrate their comprehensive knowledge of artificial turf maintenance and long-term success in the industry. This will give you confidence in their ability to maintain and enhance the lifespan of your artificial turf.

1. What is Your Experience with Turf Cleaning?

Experience is crucial in the turf cleaning industry. Ask the company how long they have been in business and specifically about their experience with turf cleaning and odor removal services.

The best turf cleaning companies will also have experience with professional cleaning services like carpets, tile, grout, and upholstery. A company with extensive experience can provide insights and a level of service that newer companies might lack.

2. What Cleaning Methods Do You Use?

Different companies use various cleaning methods, so it’s important to ensure the methods used are safe for your turf and effective at removing dirt, debris, and odors. Ask about the cleaning products they use and whether they are environmentally friendly. 

Some companies might only offer a basic cleaning service that’s essentially as effective as a basic DIY approach. Their service may involve power brushing, adding infill, and spraying the surface of the turf with a cleaner or odor-removal product. The problem with this cleaning method is that it leaves urine and contaminants trapped in the turf. 

In contrast, professional extraction methods remove all contaminants, including urine, providing a much more thorough clean. For a more detailed comparison, check out: DIY vs. Pro Turf Cleaning Services: What Should You Choose?

3.. What Kind of Guarantees Do You Offer?

A satisfaction guarantee shows that a company is confident in its services. Ask if they offer any guarantees and what the process is if you are not satisfied with their work. Companies offering a good guarantee are only able to make such an offer because they’re extremely confident in the efficacy of their methods and equipment.

When cleaning artificial turf, it should look and smell as if your pet has never urinated on it. Look for companies that offer the maximum warranty or a money-back guarantee to ensure you receive the best possible service.

4. What Type of Equipment Do You Use?

Professional artificial turf cleaning companies use a variety of equipment to perform their work. This equipment enables them to effectively remove odors and other contaminants from deep within the turf fibers.

Pressure Washers: 

Pressure washers are not recommended for cleaning turf. Many turf cleaning companies use simple pressure washers, which can be easily purchased at home improvement stores like Home Depot. However, pressure washers can void the warranty on your turf and, if used incorrectly, can cause significant damage to the turf itself and the sub-base material under it.

Truck-Mounted Cleaning Machines: 

These machines are the best for cleaning carpets, tile, grout, upholstery, and now artificial turf. They are equipped with heat and can use special attachments to achieve the best possible cleaning. Truck-mounted machines are highly recommended for a flawless clean. They are far superior to pressure washers or garden hose sprayers.

Powerbrooms: 

These brooms are designed to fluff up your turf and remove debris. There are professional-grade powerbrooms and DIY store-bought options. Professional-grade powerbrooms, like those from STIHL, remove more debris and fluff your turf more effectively than any other powerbroom.

5. How Often Should Turf Be Professionally Powerbroomed and/or Cleaned?

If you have dogs, your pet-friendly turf should be professionally cleaned every 90 days. Cleaning it more frequently, such as once a month, with machines like powerbrooms and scrubbers can damage the turf fibers, leading to premature wear. 

Synthetic grass is extremely durable, which is why it’s so popular as an alternative to natural grass. Fake grass for dogs can be used to bring your dog run ideas to life or transform a boring lawn into a dog-friendly backyard.

That said, it isn’t indestructible, and cleaning too frequently can cause degradation, resulting in turf blades that no longer fluff up. The fibers can become so weak that they can be easily ripped out by hand. It’s important to consult with your artificial turf installer or turf manufacturer, as they typically do not recommend power brushing once a month.

6. What is the Purpose of Infill and Do You Put It In My Turf?

Infill is a specific type of sand placed inside your turf to weigh it down and keep the grass blades fluffed up. For pet owners, there is a special type of infill that helps control odors. Your turf paperwork will specify the exact amount of infill required. While you likely have the required amount of infill, it’s important to know the type and quantity, especially if it’s a pet-specific infill.

A professional turf cleaning company should be knowledgeable about the type of infill material currently in your turf, understand the required amount, and be familiar with the most effective brands of pet infill. Note that pet infill doesn’t eliminate urine odor but helps control it, similar to kitty litter. 

The cost per bag of infill ranges from $15.00 to $25.00. Sometimes, you may not need additional infill if your turf already has enough. However, if more is needed, a small amount won’t suffice; you’ll need the amount specified in the installation guidelines.

7. Can You Tell How My Turf Was Installed?

This is an excellent question to ask as it will help you determine whether the turf cleaning company you are considering has experience with turf installation. Key aspects to consider include:

• The direction of the turf fibers
• The presence of a weed barrier or the use of quarter-minus beneath the turf
• The method used for seam work, including whether it is nailed or glued and whether the seams are straight or S-shaped

8. Do You Offer Any Additional Services?

Some companies might offer turf cleaning services exclusively, meaning they specialize only in cleaning turf. Outdoor turf cleaning is still relatively new for many people. 

When researching turf cleaning options, you’ll find that most companies simply spray, add infill, and power brush the turf. This might seem sufficient, given the expanding market of cleaning companies, but it’s important to consider truly professional turf cleaning services.

Professional cleaning companies often provide a range of services, including carpet, tile, grout, fabric, and travertine cleaning. The benefit of choosing such a company is their extensive experience with different cleaning machines, materials, and chemical mixtures. 

These professional cleaners have years of expertise, ensuring they know the best techniques and products to use for effective turf cleaning.

Wrapping Up Our List of Questions to Ask When Hiring a Turf Cleaning Company

Selecting the right turf cleaning company is vital to maintaining the aesthetic and functional quality of your artificial turf. It is important to delve into specific questions that gauge the experience, methods, and reliability of potential service providers. 

Companies with comprehensive experience in both turf installation and professional cleaning are preferable. They should demonstrate a deep understanding of the installation methods and materials which ensures they can perform high-quality cleaning without damaging the turf. 

Additionally, asking about the types of equipment used, frequency of cleaning required, and the specifics of infill use will further ensure that the company is well-equipped to handle your specific needs.

Ultimately, by thoroughly vetting potential turf cleaning services through these targeted questions, you can secure a provider that not only meets your needs but also enhances the longevity and appearance of your turf. This proactive approach ensures that your outdoor space remains a vibrant and enjoyable setting, backed by the confidence that your turf is in the hands of professionals who are committed to delivering top-notch service and maintaining high industry standards.

Meet the Expert:

Steve DiFabio

Steve DiFabio, owner of Dirty Turf in Arizona, is a seasoned expert in artificial turf cleaning and professional cleaning services. With extensive knowledge and experience, Steve ensures top-quality maintenance for artificial lawns, making him a trusted name in the industry.

Steve DiFabio, owner of Dirty Turf in Arizona, is a seasoned expert in artificial turf cleaning and professional cleaning services. With extensive knowledge and experience, Steve ensures top-quality maintenance for artificial lawns, making him a trusted name in the industry.