Read the scope, then the price
A $3,000 gap between two quotes usually means two different jobs. One may include a deep compacted base and glued seams. The other may leave both out.
Ask every installer to write the scope down. Then you can compare line by line. Our turf cost guide shows what moves the price.
Six questions to ask every installer
- What is the base, and how deep? Thornton's permit rules call for at least 3 inches of compacted aggregate, with sod removed first. Use that as your benchmark anywhere. Ask what material goes down and how it is compacted.
- How does water leave the area? Thornton requires backing that drains at least 2 inches per hour. Ask for the product's drainage rating and how the base is graded.
- How are seams and edges handled? Thornton requires glued seams, not sewn, and anchored edges. Expect the same from your installer.
- What infill goes in, and why? The right choice depends on pets, use and sun. Ask what it is made of and what it does.
- Can you show PFAS-free paperwork? Colorado bans installing turf with intentionally added PFAS as of January 1, 2026. Get the manufacturer's documents before you sign. See the PFAS guide.
- What does the warranty cover? Ask for the manufacturer warranty and any workmanship warranty as documents. The warranty guide shows what to look for.
Permits and HOA approval
Some cities require a permit. Thornton requires a minor planning permit for turf on detached and duplex homes, with PFAS-free documentation filed alongside it. The Thornton permit page has the details.
With an HOA, ask who prepares the approval request. A good installer supplies samples, specs and a site layout. State law protects backyard turf in many single-family HOAs, but design rules and architectural review can still apply. Read getting HOA approval before you submit.
References and photos
Ask for past customers with a yard like yours, such as dogs, a slope or a similar size. Call at least one. Did the crew show up when promised? Did the surface drain? How were problems handled?
Photos only help when they are the installer's own projects. Every photo on this site is a licensed stock image, and the footer says so.
Get a few estimates
Collect two or three written estimates. Give each installer the same description of the yard, the same photos and the same requirements. Then the quotes line up, and the differences mean something.
Red flags
- A price with no written scope or product name.
- No answer on base depth, or a base described as just sand.
- Pressure to sign on the spot.
- No mention of permits or HOA approval where they apply.
- A warranty described out loud but never given in writing.
- Reluctance to share PFAS-free documents.
What to ask us
Ask us every question on this page. We give a free on-site estimate, write up the scope and products, and check your city and HOA rules before we quote. Ask for the manufacturer warranty and PFAS-free paperwork for the product we propose, then compare it with anyone else you talk to.
Common questions
How many turf installers should I get quotes from?
Two or three written estimates is a sensible number. Give each the same yard description so you can compare scope.
What should a turf quote include?
Base material and depth, the turf product, drainage details, seam and edge method, infill, removal of what is there, permit or HOA help, PFAS-free documents and warranty terms.
Do I need a licensed installer?
Rules vary by city. Ask each installer what licenses and insurance they hold, and check with your city.
Sources
- City of Thornton: Minor Planning Permit, Artificial Turf
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: PFAS laws
- Colorado SB23-178 (HOA water-wise landscaping)
Checked November 11, 2026. Laws, programs and prices change, so confirm with the source before you decide.