Artificial turf is one of the most practical and cost-effective ways to transform your otherwise-unusable rooftop space into a private outdoor oasis. With a turf roof deck, you can carve out green space for your family in a dense urban environment or boost the ROI of your commercial enterprise.

One of the reasons synthetic grass is perfect for rooftop applications is because of its remarkable drainage capabilities. With superior drainage and ventilation, synthetic grass prevents rainwater and other liquids from becoming trapped underneath the roof deck, ensuring that mold, mildew, and structural damage won’t occur.

However, not all drainage grids are created equal. These are the three most common drainage systems for commercial rooftop applications.

1. Automatic Flushing System
If you have a bar, restaurant, pool deck or dog run on your rooftop, an automatic flushing system may be the best choice. Automatic flushing systems are most commonly used for pet turf, but they’re also an excellent option for any high-traffic commercial rooftop.

An automatic flushing system works by elevating the synthetic turf above the rooftop surface and incorporating flushing system piping that efficiently cleanses and drains the turf on a large scale. It flushes the area periodically while keeping the surface of your synthetic turf dry for use. By having the entire turf area routinely flushed and drained, you can ensure that there is no bacteria build-up over time. However, due to the complexity of an automatic flushing system, it’s usually reserved for more large-scale commercial rooftop applications or pet-specific facilities.

2. Artificial Turf Trays
If ease of installation is one of your biggest priorities, turf trays are a great option. Perfect for DIY homeowners or projects on a time constraint, turf trays allow you to create an elevated rooftop deck with seamless synthetic grass in just a matter of hours.

Turf trays are used in conjunction with SGW artificial grass as well as adjustable deck supports. The deck supports elevate the roof deck inches above the rooftop itself, adding ventilation and enabling superior drainage capabilities. Lightweight, customizable, and load-bearing, this turf system is one of the easiest to use without sacrificing quality.

3. AirDrain
AirDrain is the No. 1 most used drainage system with SGW turf, and it’s one of the most affordable methods. The patented geocell drainage grid design provides unparalleled efficiency in turf drainage rates, making it a superior choice for residential or commercial applications of any size.

AirDrain elevates the synthetic turf above the subgrade to create a one-inch, 92 percent air void underneath the synthetic turf, allowing air to circulate and water to pass through rapidly. It’s also made from 100 percent recycled copolymer, so it can withstand even the most extreme temperatures without sacrificing performance — a necessity when dealing with the direct sunlight of a rooftop deck.

AirDrain’s 100 percent vertical drainage also makes it the ideal drainage system for pet-friendly properties. By separating the synthetic grass from the concrete underneath, AirDrain is able to efficiently flush pet waste and other bacteria so your turf will stay clean and sanitary for you and your family’s enjoyment.

If you need guidance in choosing the right artificial turf installation accessories, speak to your installer or contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse location today. We can help you find the perfect synthetic grass products, including drainage, for your home or business. Synthetic Grass Warehouse has been an industry leader for more than 20 years, helping distributors, installers and homeowners alike with all of their artificial grass installation needs. To find out more about artificial grass wholesale or to receive guidance with your next turf grass installation, contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse facility today.