Artificial grass is an effective and low-maintenance alternative to a real lawn. However, to get the best results from your synthetic grass, you need a high-quality underlay.
A solid foundation is key to ensuring your artificial grass looks great and lasts a long time — but what does underlay do, and how much impact can it really have? Let’s dive into what goes under artificial grass and the essential steps to set it up for success.
Do You Have To Put Anything Under Artificial Turf?
If you’re looking to install artificial turf, you may be tempted to simply lay it out in your garden. While it is possible to do this, placing artificial grass directly on soil can lead to improper drainage.
This traps moisture and can increase the likelihood of moss and weeds growing under or around it. High-quality underlays and weed membranes can help keep these at bay.
A good underlay also prevents your artificial grass from shifting, wrinkling, and loosening. It creates an anchor that will keep your turf sturdy for up to 20 years.
Can I Lay Artificial Grass Directly On Concrete?
So, what if you’re adding your synthetic grass to concrete, decking, or another hard surface? In this situation, artificial grass underlay is still a good idea. It helps create a smooth base, so your grass will adhere more effectively without any bumps or ridges.
The Bottom Line
While adding a base or underlay to your artificial grass is not mandatory, it can have many benefits and lead to a more pleasant and cost-effective lawn area.
What Is The Best Base To Put Under Artificial Grass?
When it comes to choosing an artificial grass underlay, you have a few different options, and each comes with its merits and drawbacks. Let’s take a look at what materials you can choose from to go under your artificial grass.
Crushed Stone Or Gravel
A layer of crushed stone or gravel can help water drain away, keeping your lawn even while supporting the artificial grass. However, this can be a pricier option, and you’ll usually need a weed membrane to prevent unwanted growth.
Paver Base
This usually goes under paving slabs, but it can also help support artificial grass. It helps with drainage, makes the grass more stable, and is a particularly good option if your lawn gets a lot of foot traffic.
On the downside, a paver base may not provide the drainage you need if you live in an area with heavy rainfall.
Compacted Soil
If your garden naturally has good drainage, you could consider compacted soil. However, it needs to be extremely solid to prevent any saturation, which can make your lawn soggy. And remember, without a proper barrier, weeds can easily grow through the soil.
Sand
Sand is another good smoothing agent for artificial grass, and it can provide excellent drainage. However, it’s worth noting that sand can shift under heavy foot traffic.
Shockpad Underlay
You can also install dedicated underlay sheeting. Shockpad underlay is usually made from rubber or foam and adds a cushioning layer to your artificial lawn. It offers a comfortable texture underfoot and can create a safer, shock-absorbing surface that makes it ideal for playgrounds and family homes.
Shockpad underlay comes in a range of different thicknesses, including 10mm and 20mm. At Artificial Grass, we also offer options from the Shockpad Underlay ProPlay range, specially designed for parks and playgrounds to help keep children safe.
What Is Artificial Grass Infill?
Once you’ve chosen the right artificial grass underlay for your outdoor space, infill can add extra support and stability. Usually made of sand or rubber, it helps your grass stand tall, creates further cushioning, and gives your lawn a more natural look and feel.
It also adds weight to your artificial lawn to help reduce any shifting or wrinkling — this is especially helpful if your garden gets a lot of footfall or you live in a very windy area.
We recommend Envirofill 16/30 Pet Infill or Envirofill 30/50 Putting Green Infill to keep your grass looking its best and feeling comfortable underfoot.
How To Create The Best Foundation For Your Artificial Grass
Now that you know your options for artificial grass underlay, let’s look at how to create the perfect foundation. These steps will ensure a stable and even surface, no matter which underlay you’ve gone for.
1. Smooth Out The Surface With Sand
Once you’ve set up your base, it’s time for the magic touch — sand. Spread it evenly over the surface to create a smooth and level foundation for your artificial grass. It will aid in proper drainage, keeping your lawn dry and ready for action.
2. Add A Comfortable Layer With Padding
Even if you’ve opted for an underlay such as gravel, padding, like one of our shockpad underlays, can add comfort. Lay it down before installing the turf, and you’ll notice the difference when you walk on your plush lawn.
3. Moisten And Compact
Before you finish up, give your artificial turf layers a bit of moisture to help them bond. Then, bring out the heavy-duty equipment — compactors. Go over each layer to ensure everything is tightly packed and ready for the grand reveal.
4. Install Edge Restraints
To keep everything in check and looking tidy, install some edge restraints. They not only provide a boundary for your artificial grass but also give it a polished and finished appearance.
5. Keep It Fresh
After installing your artificial grass, you’ll have a stunning, durable lawn. However, while it is a low-maintenance option, the best way to keep your turf in top condition is to clean it regularly with a dedicated artificial grass cleaning solution.
This is especially important if you have pets and want to keep your artificial lawn fresh all year round.
Perfect Your Artificial Grass With The Right Underlay
With the right foundation, your artificial grass can stand the test of time and create a beautiful environment. Whether you’re installing synthetic grass on a playground, adding it to your patio area, or transforming your old lawn area with an artificial spruce-up, it’s important to add a high-quality underlay.
With our products and advice, you can set the stage for an aesthetic, long-lasting lawn. Take a look at our affordable artificial lawn options and the accessories that will keep it looking its best. And for more advice and inspiration on creating a beautiful outdoor space, explore our blog articles.
