When you think about artificial turf installation, you rarely think about anything other than the turf grass itself. However, nailer boards are crucial components of synthetic grass longevity. Used to create a durable turf grass perimeter and proper anchoring, nailer boards keep artificial turf secure and protected long term.
In this article we’re going to explain what nailer boards are, what materials are best for nailer boards, and the benefits of using nailer boards for artificial turf installation.
If you’re new to artificial turf, we recommend reading: Why High-Quality Artificial Turf Installation is Worth the Investment
Key Points About Nailer Boards & Synthetic Turf
- Nailer boards are used to create a stable perimeter around artificial turf so that it can be anchored and secured properly.
- Artificial turf nailer boards can be made from treated lumber, recycled plastic/composite, or recycled artificial turf & EPDM, with the latter being the most high-quality and durable.
- Typically, nailer boards come in a standard size: 1” thick x 4” tall x 12’ long, and can be cut-to-size to suit any project.
- Modern Grounds offers synthetic grass nailer boards that are made in the USA from recycled artificial turf and other plastics — a professional option that is waterproof, flexible, and will not split, rot, or decay.
What Are Nailer Boards?
Nailer boards serve as durable perimeter edging for artificial turf.
They are important for artificial turf installation because they provide a secure and stable border where the turf is fastened with staples or nails, ensuring the turf grass stays taut and doesn’t lift at the edges.
Learn about how professionally-installed artificial turf can boost the value of your home: Does Artificial Turf Increase Your Home Value?
What Materials are Best for Nailer Boards?
While you might think that nailer boards are all made of the same materials, they can actually be made a few different ways.
Common materials that nailer boards are made from:
- Treated Lumber: The original material used for nailer boards, but is no longer preferred because it can dry out and split over time.
- Recycled Plastic/Composite: This nailer board material is more modern, and is a flexible and durable choice that won’t crack, rot, or split.
- Recycled Artificial Turf & EPDM: Nailer boards made of recycled turf materials and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) are high-quality, sustainable, flexible, waterproof, and will not split, rot, or decay.
The best material for nailer boards is recycled artificial turf, because it is the most sustainable and durable for synthetic turf installations.
Read: What are the Environmental Benefits of Artificial Turf?
What Size Are Standard Nailer Boards?
Synthetic grass nailer boards are typically 1” thick x 4” tall, and 12’ long, allowing them to be cut to varied lengths to accommodate a wide range of artificial turf projects.
What are the Benefits of Using Nailer Boards With Artificial Turf?
You might wonder if nailer boards are really necessary for artificial turf installation, and next we’ll provide all the reasons why you don’t want to skip this feature.
Key reasons for using nailer boards for turf grass:
- Protect & Secure: Unlike relying on nails in the base material, fastening turf to nailer boards creates a long-term, strong bond, preventing edge curling.
- Provide Stability: Nailer boards act as a solid border, keeping the turf taut and aligned, especially in high-traffic areas or playgrounds.
- Prevent Damage: Turf is held securely in place with nailer boards, reducing the risk of pets, children, or environmental factors (like wind) pulling the edges up.
- Premium Aesthetics: Nailer boards allow for a smooth and clean finish, allowing the synthetic grass to be properly tucked and secured.
- Promote Longevity: By providing a permanent anchoring system, nailer boards enhance the overall lifespan and durability of the artificial turf installation.
When synthetic grass is properly secured, it helps prevent curling, shifting, pooling, and odor buildup, ensuring you get the most out of your artificial grass for years to come.
Separate facts from fiction: Top 10 Artificial Turf Myths Debunked
Why Modern Grounds is the Best Choice for Artificial Turf Installation
Modern Grounds’ professional turf installations include skilled labor and craftsmanship, proper insurance, advanced equipment, and warranties, ensuring that your synthetic grass can last for decades.
When you trust Modern Grounds to install your synthetic turf you’ll receive the following benefits:
- Proper Drainage: Excavation and grading to ensure proper drainage.
- Sturdy Foundation: Base installation using crushed stone, compacted in multiple layers.
- Growth Prevention: Weed barriers to stop growth from underneath.
- Precision Edging: Works to lock the system in place.
- Seamless Appearance: Cutting and seaming turf so the lines disappear.
- Wrinkle Prevention: Stretching material properly to prevent wrinkles.
- Structural Integrity: Applying adhesives and seam tape for structural strength.
- Increased Longevity: Ensuring infill installation to proper levels to help turf look great and stand the test of time.
Learn: Why High-Quality Turf Installation is Worth the Investment
Nailer Boards Available at Modern Grounds
Modern Grounds’ nailer boards are made in the USA with recycled artificial turf and other plastics, making them the most durable and reliable option for your synthetic grass needs.
When paired with 6” turf nails that feature a spiral shank, diamond point, and are hot galvanized for rust- and weather-resistance, your artificial turf is sure to stand the test of time.
We also offer nailer board stakes (bender board stakes) and nailer board stake screws that anchor synthetic turf nailer boards and landscape edging securely to the ground.
Artificial turf is only as good as the installation and the materials used. When you opt for professional installation and choose premium materials, you can extend the life of your turf grass substantially.
Why You Should Opt for Professional Artificial Turf Installation
While you can opt to install synthetic grass yourself, professionally-installed artificial turf includes proper excavation, grading, base installation, and testing to prevent pooling and ensure there is proper drainage.
Expert groundwork prevents uneven surfaces, puddling, odors, lifting edges, and shifting, which are all problems associated with cheap synthetic turf installation.
When you choose artificial turf installation with Modern Grounds, you’re hiring a committed team of professionals that are backed by a Certified Synthetic Turf Installer (CSTI) — ensuring that your dream lawn becomes reality.
Contact Modern Grounds for a free quote today!