What Glue to Use for Artificial Grass: The Ultimate Guide

What Glue to Use for Artificial Grass: The Ultimate UAE Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Understanding Artificial Grass in the UAE Context

3. Why Choosing the Right Glue is Crucial

4. Types of Glue for Artificial Grass
   • a. Polyurethane Adhesive

   • b. Two-Part Adhesive

   • c. Acrylic Adhesive

   • d. Hot Melt Adhesive

   • e. Double-Sided Joining Tape with Pre-Applied Glue

5. Factors to Consider When Choosing Glue in UAE Climate
   • a. High Temperature Resistance

   • b. UV Stability

   • c. Humidity and Moisture Resistance

   • d. Sand & Dust Tolerance

6. Glue vs Tape: Which is Better for Artificial Grass?

7. Top Brands of Artificial Grass Glue Available in the UAE

8. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Glue for Artificial Grass

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Gluing Artificial Grass

10. Glue Application on Different Surfaces
    • a. Concrete

    • b. Tiles

    • c. Sand

    • d. Wood

    • e. Asphalt

11. Safety Measures While Using Artificial Grass Glue

12. Eco-Friendly & Pet-Safe Glue Options

13. How Long Does Artificial Grass Glue Last?

14. Weather Impact on Artificial Grass Glue Performance

15. Glue Maintenance and Aftercare

16. FAQs About What Glue to Use for Artificial Grass

17. Conclusion

1. Introduction

Artificial grass has become a game-changer for landscaping in the UAE, especially in regions like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah where maintaining natural lawns is challenging due to arid climate conditions. One of the most crucial aspects of installing synthetic turf is selecting the right glue. If you’re wondering what glue to use for artificial grass, you’re not alone. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every detail about artificial grass adhesive options, particularly tailored for UAE conditions.

2. Understanding Artificial Grass in the UAE Context

In the United Arab Emirates, artificial grass is widely used for both residential and commercial purposes due to water conservation regulations, high temperature levels, and the ever-growing preference for low-maintenance landscaping. Be it garden lawns, balconies, sports fields, or indoor décor, artificial turf is everywhere.

However, the UAE’s extreme weather—summer temperatures often exceeding 45°C, dusty winds, and occasional sandstorms—requires a special type of glue that offers durability, flexibility, and resistance to harsh environmental factors.

3. Why Choosing the Right Glue is Crucial

Using the wrong glue can result in:

• Peeling edges of the turf

• Seams splitting apart

• Water seeping underneath

• Health hazards due to toxic chemicals

• Poor surface finish and uneven joints

In contrast, using the correct adhesive:

• Enhances durability

• Withstands temperature fluctuations

• Provides a strong bond

• Maintains appearance over years

• Reduces maintenance costs

4. Types of Glue for Artificial Grass

There are several types of adhesives, and each serves a specific purpose. Let’s examine the most common ones:

a. Polyurethane Adhesive

Best For: Outdoor installations in extreme heat.

Description: A single-component glue ideal for UAE weather. It has excellent bonding strength, high elasticity, and superior resistance to moisture and UV rays.

Advantages:

• Waterproof

• Fast setting

• Tolerant to thermal expansion

• Suitable for porous and non-porous surfaces

Drawbacks:

• May be expensive

• Needs careful handling

b. Two-Part Adhesive (Epoxy Resin-Based)

Best For: Heavy-duty commercial use

Description: This consists of a resin and a hardener that must be mixed before application. Offers a stronger bond than single-component glue.

Advantages:

• High bonding power

• Ideal for sports fields and high foot traffic areas

• Long-lasting

Drawbacks:

• Requires accurate mixing ratio

• Short pot life after mixing

c. Acrylic Adhesive

Best For: Temporary installations

Description: A water-based glue that is environment-friendly and easy to use. It works well in controlled indoor environments.

Advantages:

• Low odor

• Non-toxic

• Affordable

Drawbacks:

• Not suitable for UAE outdoor conditions

• Vulnerable to moisture and heat

d. Hot Melt Adhesive

Best For: Small DIY projects

Description: Used via a glue gun. This is a quick-fix adhesive ideal for short-term solutions and smaller turf patches.

Advantages:

• Fast setting

• Easy to use

• Low cost

Drawbacks:

• Not durable

• Not heat resistant

e. Double-Sided Joining Tape with Pre-Applied Glue

Best For: Seam joints

Description: Self-adhesive tape with glue applied on both sides. Mostly used to join turf edges or seams.

Advantages:

• No mess

• No additional tools needed

• Fast installation

Drawbacks:

• May lose bond under extreme heat

• Not suitable for large installations

5. Factors to Consider When Choosing Glue in UAE Climate

a. High Temperature Resistance

UAE’s summer can heat turf surfaces up to 70°C. Your glue must endure this without melting or weakening.

b. UV Stability

Ultraviolet radiation is intense in this region. UV-stable glue prevents discoloration, cracking, or degradation.

c. Humidity and Moisture Resistance

While UAE is dry, certain months see fog or coastal humidity—especially in Abu Dhabi. Moisture-resistant adhesives are a must.

d. Sand & Dust Tolerance

Glue with anti-dust or anti-particulate features ensures better bonding in sandy outdoor environments like Dubai or Al Ain.

6. Glue vs Tape: Which is Better for Artificial Grass?

Verdict: Use glue for long-term, professional-grade UAE installations.

7. Top Brands of Artificial Grass Glue Available in the UAE

• Bostik PU Turf Adhesive – Premium quality

• EnviroStik Multi Purpose Adhesive – UV & heat resistant

• SikaBond Turf Glue – Trusted for sports fields

• Turf-Fix UAE – Local distributor with durable formulas

• Everbuild Astro Pro 5 – Easy to apply, high strength

These can be found in UAE building supply stores like ACE Hardware, Speedex, or online via Amazon UAE, Noon.com, or local turf distributors.

8. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Glue for Artificial Grass

1. Surface Preparation
   • Clean and dry the area

   • Ensure a level base

2. Glue Mixing (if two-part)
   • Follow manufacturer’s ratio strictly

   • Use a mechanical stirrer for best results

3. Apply Evenly
   • Use a notched trowel or glue gun

   • Spread uniformly without gaps

4. Place Turf
   • Lay the grass within 10 minutes

   • Press firmly across the glued area

5. Seam Joining
   • Use seam tape under edges

   • Apply glue and press turf together

6. Curing Time
   • Wait 24–48 hours before foot traffic

   • Avoid water contact for 72 hours

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Gluing Artificial Grass

• Applying glue on wet or dusty surfaces

• Overusing glue which leads to lumps

• Not pressing turf firmly enough

• Using indoor glue for outdoor installation

• Ignoring curing time

10. Glue Application on Different Surfaces

a. Concrete

• Clean with water and allow to dry

• Use polyurethane glue

• Ideal for rooftops and balconies

b. Tiles

• Sand lightly to create friction

• Use strong PU adhesive

c. Sand

• Not recommended without a geo-textile membrane

• Lay underlay first, then turf, then tape or glue

d. Wood

• Apply primer if the wood is painted

• Use two-part adhesive

e. Asphalt

• Ensure no oil or loose gravel

• Clean thoroughly and use PU glue

11. Safety Measures While Using Artificial Grass Glue

• Wear gloves and eye protection

• Ensure ventilation

• Avoid inhaling fumes

• Keep away from children and pets

• Store adhesive in a cool, dry place

12. Eco-Friendly & Pet-Safe Glue Options

• Look for low-VOC adhesives

• Water-based options for indoor/pet turf

• Ensure no formaldehyde or toxic solvents

Brands to consider: EnviroStik AquaBond, GreenBond Turf Glue

13. How Long Does Artificial Grass Glue Last?

• Properly applied glue can last 8–12 years

• Indoor glue may last longer due to fewer weather factors

• Maintenance helps extend life

14. Weather Impact on Artificial Grass Glue Performance

• Heat: May soften low-grade glue

• Cold: Reduces bonding time

• Rain/humidity: Affects curing process

Best Practice: Install during early morning or evening to avoid extreme conditions

15. Glue Maintenance and Aftercare

• Inspect seams annually

• Reapply glue where peeling occurs

• Avoid dragging heavy objects over glued sections

• Clean with mild soap and water—avoid solvents

16. FAQs About What Glue to Use for Artificial Grass

Q1: Can I use regular construction glue?
A: No, it lacks flexibility and UV resistance.

Q2: Is artificial grass glue waterproof?
A: Yes, if you choose polyurethane or two-part adhesives.

Q3: Can I install artificial turf myself with glue?
A: Yes, but follow proper steps to avoid mistakes.

Q4: How much glue do I need?
A: Around 3–5 kg per 10 square meters depending on seam usage.

Q5: Will glue damage my concrete roof?
A: No, it creates a strong bond without harming concrete.

17. Conclusion

Choosing what glue to use for artificial grass is more than a technical decision—it’s a crucial step that determines the success and lifespan of your turf installation, especially in the UAE’s tough climate. For most outdoor setups in the Emirates, polyurethane or two-part adhesives offer the best long-term performance. Prioritize weather resistance, bonding strength, and safety.

Whether you’re a homeowner in Dubai, a landscaper in Abu Dhabi, or a contractor in Sharjah—this guide is your go-to resource. Invest wisely in the right glue, and your artificial grass will stay green, seamless, and beautiful for years to come.

Read More: Garden Construction Ideas for Small Gardens