Dusty But Satisfying
Dusty but Satisfying
THE WIN
This may have been a smaller Xturf project, but it represented something bigger: contractor confidence.
The contractor on this job is bidding and winning Xturf projects independently, without needing AJ involved in every opportunity. That's a sign that the training, support, and previous installations are paying off.
Helping contractors become self-sufficient is one of the best indicators of long-term success.
ZEO-WHITE WARNING …
This product can be dusty!
WHAT WE LEARNED
This was AJ's first installation using Zeo-White infill, and it came with an unexpected surprise: dust.
During installation, the infill generated more dust than anticipated, which initially raised some concerns. After a quick call to Mike and some troubleshooting on-site, the team found the solution.
A thorough power brooming followed by wetting down the surface significantly reduced the dust and delivered the desired finish.
The lesson: new products and materials can present surprises, but understanding how to respond is what keeps a project moving forward.
“The dust scared the s#!t out of me at first, but we played it cool, got the answer, and everything worked out.”
PRO TIP
Keep your poker face.
When something unexpected happens on a job site, contractors and homeowners often take their cues from you. Stay calm, gather information, and lean on your Alliance team members when questions arise.
In this case, the Zeo-White dust looked concerning at first, but a quick call, a simple solution, and a little patience turned a stressful moment into a non-issue.
As AJ put it: "The dust scared the s#!t out of me at first, but we played it cool, got the answer, and everything worked out."
Sometimes the best tool on the job site is confidence.
Training first, success follows
Training First, Success Follows
THE WIN
Serenity Landscape Group trusted Alliance to provide training and support on their first Xturf installation.
From the start, the team approached the project with the right mindset. They listened, came prepared, and treated the installation as a hands-on training opportunity. By working closely together throughout the process, the contractor gained confidence with the product and installation techniques.
The result? A successful first installation that helped position them for additional turf projects moving forward.
WHAT WE LEARNED
While the installation was successful, the project took about a day longer than originally anticipated.
Looking back, Juan’s recommendation is to build extra time into the schedule—especially for first-time installations. Turf projects often involve a learning curve, and allowing additional time helps reduce pressure while ensuring quality workmanship.
“Remember, your role is not to install the turf—it’s to train and guide the contractor through the process.”
PRO TIP
Take command of the installation.
Remember, your role is not to install the turf—it’s to train and guide the contractor through the process. Establish best practices early, answer questions, and help the crew build confidence throughout the installation.
Bonus tip:
Leave 3–6 inches of excess turf around edges and seams during layout. You can always trim material away, but you can’t add it back once it’s cut.
Big Rolls, Bigger Lessons
Big Rolls, Bigger Lessons
Gringo Rick saves the day
THE WIN
This project was a major win on several fronts. Not only was it a large Xturf installation, but it also helped get the ball rolling with a dealer who is now actively selling the Xturf Collection.
The installation involved large turf rolls, numerous seams, and a complex layout. Despite the size of the project, the crew executed the installation at a high level and completed what AJ jokingly referred to as "the greatest butt seam ever." The finished product looked outstanding and reinforced the value of proper planning and installation techniques.
WHAT WE LEARNED
One of the biggest lessons from this project involved the takeoff process.
In an effort to help the contractor maximize material usage, the initial takeoff was designed very tightly. Ultimately, the contractor had to purchase additional turf to complete the job.
The takeaway: don't be afraid to sell the material required to do the job correctly. Trying to save a few square feet on the front end can create challenges later and may result in additional orders, delays, and unnecessary stress during installation.
Accurate drawings and thorough takeoffs are critical to project success.
“Accurate drawings and thorough takeoffs are critical to project success.”
PRO TIP
Double-check every takeoff before placing the order.
Make sure the drawing is accurate, dimensions are verified, and all areas are accounted for. A few extra minutes reviewing the plan can save hours of headaches in the field.
Bonus tip:
AJ discovered a new turf-cutting tool on this project that made cutting and fitting significantly easier. Keep an eye in the photos to see the tool in action.
An Xturf Team Effort
An Xturf Team Effort
WIN
A contractor ordered the wrong roll sizes for a putting green project, which created more seams than expected. Understandably, the contractor and homeowner were worried about the seams standing out.
Doug and the crew followed proper seam-cutting technique, used XP Glue + Xturf Seam Tape, rolled the seams thoroughly, and weighted them overnight with infill bags.
Result: After brushing and finishing, the seams blended almost seamlessly — and the homeowner was thrilled with the final look.
LESSON LEARNED
Doug emphasized how critical it is to stay involved — starting with the project takeoff all the way through planning and finally installation.
A few things that caused issues:
Improper bedding layer selection for the putting green
Incorrect turf roll sizing
Contractors skipping recommended install practices
“We can guide contractors, but we also need to be honest about what works, what doesn’t, and where we’re still learning as a team.”
PRO TIP
If you don’t know the answer, say so confidently.
Contractors appreciate honesty more than guessing. Lean on the Alliance team for support and follow up quickly with accurate information. Doug utilized Mike and leveraged the knowledge of other teammates throughout the course of the project.
Bonus install tip:
Using a drill + deck screws on pressure-treated edging is much easier than hand-driving spiral nails.
