What to put under artificial grass? You should put under artificial grass a combination of crushed aggregate, sand, weed barriers, and optional padding or infill. This creates a stable, low-maintenance, and visually appealing lawn.
Artificial Grass Gold Coast is a professional artificial grass installer on the Gold Coast, specialising in transforming outdoor spaces across the city with seamless, high-quality installations.
Let’s walk through the layers that go underneath artificial grass to make sure your installation stands the test of time.
The Key Ingredients for an Artificial Grass Base
Creating a solid base for artificial grass involves several layers, each serving a specific purpose.
1. Geo-Textile Paper/Mesh Weed Barrier
To prevent weeds from growing through your artificial grass, it’s crucial to lay down a geo-textile paper or mesh weed barrier. This material acts as a first line of defence against unwanted vegetation, maintaining the clean look of your lawn without the hassle of constant weed management.
In addition to preventing weeds, it also helps improve the longevity of your artificial turf, as it creates a layer of protection between the soil and the grass.
2. Crushed Aggregate/Gravel
One of the key components for an artificial grass base is a layer of crushed aggregate or gravel. This material allows for excellent drainage, ensuring water flows away from the turf quickly. Without this layer, water can pool under the grass, causing uneven surfaces and potential damage to your installation.
We recommend this layer for both residential and commercial installations as it stabilises the base and enhances the grass’s durability.
3. Weed Membrane
After laying the crushed gravel, adding a weed membrane is an optional but highly recommended step. This extra layer of protection ensures that no stubborn weeds manage to penetrate your artificial lawn.
While it’s optional, for areas that are particularly prone to weed growth, this membrane can save you from future headaches. In addition, it acts as an added layer of drainage, keeping your base dry and solid.
4. Astro-Cushion
If you’re looking for a bit of extra comfort underfoot, consider adding an astro-cushion layer. This padding adds softness and helps mimic the feel of natural grass, making it ideal for playgrounds or areas where people are likely to walk barefoot. While not necessary for all installations, astro-cushion can significantly improve the comfort and aesthetics of your artificial lawn.
5. Granite Dust
Granite dust is a crucial material that provides a firm yet permeable base for the grass. This fine aggregate ensures a smooth surface for your synthetic turf and is often laid over the crushed gravel layer. It also improves drainage, helping rainwater filter through the grass and down into the sub-base. Using granite dust can help prolong the lifespan of your lawn, making it a valuable addition.
6. Sub-base
A sub-base is the structural foundation of your artificial lawn, providing stability and support for all the layers above. This layer is usually composed of crushed stone or compacted soil, depending on the surface you’re working with. The sub-base distributes the weight of the grass evenly, preventing any shifting or sinking over time.
7. Compacted Soil
Before laying any base materials, it’s essential to ensure the soil beneath is compacted and stable. Loose or uneven soil can cause the base materials to shift, leading to an uneven lawn. Compacted soil ensures that the base layers remain in place and provides a solid foundation for the entire installation.
8. Sand
Adding a layer of silica sand helps level out the surface before laying artificial grass. This fine material fills any gaps in the base and provides a smooth, flat surface for the artificial grass to rest on. Sand is also useful in helping to weigh down the grass, keeping it firmly in place once installed.
9. Padding
For areas where safety or comfort is a priority—such as playgrounds or sports fields—padding is an optional but beneficial layer to include. This soft material can reduce the impact of falls and improve the overall feel of the lawn underfoot.
Optional Layers: Weed Membrane & Infill
For some installations, you may want to add a second weed membrane layer or choose an infill material to further secure your artificial turf. Infill helps weigh down the grass and keeps the blades standing upright, maintaining the natural appearance of the lawn.
Infill materials vary, ranging from sand to rubber pellets, depending on the purpose and aesthetic of the installation. To learn how these additional layers impact overall installation costs, read How much does artificial grass cost.
How to Prepare the Ground for Drainage Under Artificial Grass
Proper drainage is essential for any artificial grass installation, especially in areas prone to heavy rain. Without an effective drainage system, water can pool under the turf, leading to potential issues with mould, mildew, or surface damage.
6 Steps for Installing Drainage Under Artificial Grass
1. Excavate the Area
The first step is to excavate the area to the required depth. This usually involves removing the top layer of soil and creating space for the base materials.
2. Create a Slope
Ensure there is a slight slope in the area to direct water flow away from the lawn. This step is critical for preventing water from pooling.
3. Lay the Drainage Fabric
A drainage fabric is then laid over the excavated area to aid water flow while also acting as a weed barrier.
4. Add Gravel or Crushed Stone
A layer of gravel or crushed stone is then spread over the drainage fabric. This layer helps water filter through while providing a stable base for the turf.
5. Add a Layer of Sand
Adding sand helps level the area and prepares the surface for the final turf installation.
6. Lay the Artificial Grass
Finally, you can install the artificial grass on top of the prepared base, securing it with stakes or adhesive.
Preparing the Base for Artificial Grass Installation
To ensure your artificial lawn looks great and lasts long, it’s essential to properly prepare the base. This process involves several steps to create a stable, well-draining surface.
Assessment and Planning
Start by assessing the area and planning the installation. Measure the space and determine what materials you’ll need.
Clearing and Excavation
Clear the area of any existing grass, weeds, or debris. You’ll then need to excavate the site to create space for the base materials.
Site Preparation, Compaction, and Levelling
Prepare the site by levelling and compacting the soil. A smooth, stable surface is crucial for laying the base materials.
Install a Weed Barrier
Lay down a weed barrier to prevent unwanted plants from growing through your artificial grass.
Sub-base Material and Final Leveling
Add your sub-base materials, such as crushed aggregate or granite dust, then level and compact the area for a stable surface.
Moistening, Compacting, and Edge Restraints
Moisten the base slightly before compacting to ensure it sets properly. Add edge restraints to keep the grass securely in place.
Choosing the Right Base Material
Selecting the right base material is crucial for a successful installation. Materials like crushed stone, granite dust, and sand provide stability, drainage, and comfort.
Conclusion
A well-prepared base is the foundation of any successful artificial grass installation. By following these steps and choosing the right materials, you can ensure your synthetic lawn looks great and lasts for years. Find out more about how residents of Gold Coast can save with artificial grass by reducing water bills and eliminating maintenance costs.
At Artificial Grass Gold Coast, we provide everything you need for a top-quality installation, from turf to base materials. With careful planning and proper preparation, you’ll enjoy the beauty and convenience of artificial grass without any of the hassles.
People Also Ask
What tools are required to install an artificial grass base?
You’ll need a shovel, rake, compactor, utility knife, tape measure, and a wheelbarrow for moving base materials.
Can I use a paver base for artificial turf?
Yes, a paver base can be used, but ensure it allows proper drainage. A layer of crushed stone is ideal to help water flow through.
What is the best base to put under artificial grass?
The best proper base includes crushed stone or gravel, sand for levelling, and a weed barrier to prevent weed growth.
How do you prepare the ground for artificial grass?
Start by clearing and levelling the area, then compact the soil, install a weed barrier, lay the base materials (gravel and sand), and compact again before laying the turf.