If you are considering installing artificial grass, you will need to build a base for it. The base can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be.
Most people choose to use one of the following options: synthetic turf base, rubber playground base (or other recycled rubber materials), crushed concrete, or concrete blocks for raised bases.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Prepare the base is the most important step in installing artificial grass |
| Measuring the area and ordering the right amount of turf is necessary |
| Removing the old material and weeds is required for proper installation |
| The installation process may require different types of tools and adhesives |
| Maintenance of artificial grass includes cleaning debris, surface brushing, and washing. |
Apply Weed Control Fabric
The first step in how to build a base for artificial grass is to lay down a layer of weed control fabric.
This is a plastic sheet that prevents weeds from growing through the base material. It’s laid flat and evenly, section by section over your base material.
To ensure the proper foundation for your artificial grass, it’s essential to use the right amount of sandy loam. Our guide on how to calculate sandy loam required for your artificial turf project provides tips on calculating the right amount of sandy loam needed to create a solid base for your installation.
Add Sub-Base Aggregate
Sub-base aggregate is a layer of material that is used to provide a solid base for artificial grass. It can consist of any material that is suitable for the environment and works well with other components in the system.
For example, sub-base aggregate may be composed of stone or chipped asphalt which has been collected from your property or recycled materials such as concrete, gravel or sand.
Tips for Adding Sub-Base Aggregate
| Tips |
|---|
| Choose the right type of aggregate based on the soil type and intended usage of the surface |
| Check the depth of the aggregate before adding the base layer to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s recommendation |
| Compact the aggregate layer thoroughly to ensure that the artificial grass has a stable foundation |
| Consider adding geotextile fabric over the aggregate layer to prevent soil mixing and improve drainage |
| Add a layer of sand over the aggregate layer for additional drainage support |
| Ensure that the aggregate layer drains correctly and the water doesn’t accumulate beneath the artificial grass. |
Purchase A Rubber Playground Base
You can purchase a rubber playground base that is made to work with artificial grass. Make sure the base is at least 2 inches thick and has UV resistance.
It should also be non-toxic, as you’ll be installing it in your yard where children could play on it. This type of base will also be easy to install, as long as you follow the instructions provided by its manufacturer.
Digging out existing grass and soil in preparation for installing artificial turf can be a laborious process. Our guide on how much it costs to dig out artificial grass provides insights on the cost involved in the process, helping you to budget accordingly before starting your installation.
Use Crushed Concrete
As it turns out, concrete is a great material for artificial grass to sit on. It’s cheap, easy to work with and the perfect height for your lawn.
One tip when building your base is to make sure you don’t pack down the soil too tightly as this could cause issues later on when watering or playing on it.
Tips for Using Crushed Concrete Under Artificial Grass
| Tips |
|---|
| Ensure the concrete is crushed to the appropriate size for use as sub-base material |
| Spread the crushed concrete evenly across the area, ensuring that it’s at the appropriate depth |
| Use a plate compactor to ensure that the crushed concrete is level and compacted thoroughly |
| Add a layer of sand over the crushed concrete to create a smoother surface for the artificial grass |
| Ensure proper drainage by sloping the crushed concrete base away from structures and towards drainage areas |
| Always wear protective gear like gloves, boots, and safety goggles while working with crushed concrete. |
Use Concrete Blocks For A Raised Base
To build a raised base for artificial grass, place concrete blocks in the ground and secure them with cement. Place them so that the surface is level and even, then use a rubber mallet to tap the blocks into place.
To finish the surface, use a trowel to smooth and level it out before washing away excess concrete with water from a hose.
Installing artificial grass can be an excellent DIY project for homeowners who want to upgrade the landscape of their property. Our guide on artificial grass installation provides comprehensive guidance on the installation process, from site preparation to attaching the edges and provides a step-by-step guideline for installing artificial grass.
Purchase Synthetic Turf Base
Synthetic turf base is a synthetic material that is used as a base for artificial grass. The base is made up of plastic and rubber. It provides the perfect foundation for any kind of artificial grass, whether you are installing it yourself or hiring someone to do it for you.
If you want to install your own artificial grass, then buying a synthetic turf base is essential. The vast majority of people who purchase an artificial lawn do so as an alternative to natural grass because they don’t have enough space or time to maintain their lawns properly.
However, there are many other reasons why buying synthetic turf makes sense:
o It’s no longer necessary to worry about mowing the lawn every week during summertime; this will save both time and money on maintenance costs!
o No more spending hours trying figure out how much fertilizer should be applied each month either!
o No more worrying about what type of insecticides need apply when using real plants; there aren’t any insects around these days anyway…
Install A Wooden Perimeter Frame
Once your base is in place, it’s time to install the wooden perimeter frame. This is what will give your artificial grass a more natural look and feel as well as keep it in place.
To begin, select 2x2s or 2x4s (whichever you have). Cut the wood with a circular saw to create these pieces:
- Four 36-inch pieces for each side of the artificial grass area (top, bottom, left and right sides)
- Four 24-inch pieces for each end of your artificial grass area
Attaching artificial grass to wood requires specialized techniques for proper installation. Our pro tips on how to attach artificial grass to wood provide an easy guide on selecting the right type of adhesive, minimizing potential damage to the wood, and more tips to make the process effortlessly.
Spread With Black Construction Sand
Using a rake, spread out the black construction sand evenly across the lawn to a depth of about 2 inches.
Sweep up any extra sand with a broom so that it doesn’t get in the grass and block drainage holes (if you have them).
You may need to add more sand depending on how thick your artificial grass is; use layers of 3/4-inch plywood pieces as spacers between the artificial grass rolls while they’re laid down so they don’t bunch up together during installation
Build EPS Foam Support Model
First, you’ll need to create a support model for the artificial grass. There are many ways to do this, but one of the easiest is using EPS foam. The first step is to build a base layer of EPS foam by cutting it into square pieces that fit snugly together.
Then add sand on top of the base layer—the amount will vary depending on how thick your lawn will be and how much weight it will bear (for example, if you know there’s going to be some heavy machinery rolling around on top of your lawn later).
Add your artificial grass over this final layer and voilà! Your lawn has been built!
Choosing the best artificial grass is crucial to ensure the longevity and durability of your landscape. Our beginner’s guide on how to pick the right artificial turf provides comprehensive guidance on selecting the right type of artificial grass for your specific needs, including tips on durability, drainage, and more.
Make Sure Base Is Flat And Level
Use a laser level. The easiest way to make sure your base is flat and level is by using a laser level. A laser level is basically a small, electronic device that shines two beams of light horizontally across the surface you are working on.
You can then place it at each corner and see if they cross in front of each other (which indicates that the surface is flat). If it doesn’t cross in front of itself, you need to adjust and move your railings until it does.
Check for level at each corner. Once all four corners are set, use spirit levels to check for horizontal alignment at one end of the room (where there will be no turf installed yet).
Measure from floor-to-ceiling height difference between two points on opposite walls so as not to miss any low spots in your measurements.
Check where these points are relative to their neighbors as well; you’ll want them all lined up evenly!
Check for flatness by measuring height differences between two points on opposite walls near where they meet or touch—their heights should match up exactly so there aren’t any dips or humps anywhere along either side’s length.
Lay Artificial Turf Directly On The Ground
Now it’s time to lay the artificial grass directly on the ground. If you’re working with a large area, we recommend using a rubber mallet to put down your turf.
If you have already used staplers or nails to hold down the backing material, be sure not to use them again here they can damage your new grass as it’s laid down.
Instead, we recommend using garden hoses or similar tools to help keep it in place until you’re ready for watering and maintenance.
Conclusion
In essence, it’s a matter of choosing the right materials and making sure they’re all properly installed and sealed.
The result will be a sturdy base that won’t sink or buckle under the weight of your artificial grass.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources to help you with your artificial grass installation:
How to Prep the Base for Artificial Grass – Learn the right techniques and tools required to prep your base for artificial grass installation.
Turf DIY Guide – A comprehensive guide on how to install artificial grass for DIY enthusiasts.
How to Install Artificial Grass on Concrete – A Step-by-Step Guide – Detailed guide explaining how to install artificial grass on concrete, including tips for preparing the surface, adding drainage, and more.
FAQs
What are the benefits of installing artificial grass?
One of the primary benefits of artificial grass is low maintenance requirements. Unlike natural grass, artificial surfaces don’t need to be watered, fertilized, or mowed, making them more cost-effective over time. They are also durable, long-lasting, and can enable homeowners to create an outdoor space with year-round appeal.
How long does it take to install artificial grass?
The installation time frame depends on the size and complexity of the project, but most installations can be completed within a few days, sometimes within hours.
Can artificial grass be laid on top of existing grass or soil?
No, you need to remove existing grass and soil before laying the artificial grass. The installation of the grass requires a solid base to function properly, and any existing grass or soil could interfere with the overall stability of the surface over time.
How do I maintain my artificial grass?
Artificial grass requires minimal maintenance, but you need to clear the surface of debris, leaves, and branches regularly. You may also need to brush and rinse the surface to maintain its appearance, and if you have pets, their droppings should be cleared and washed regularly.
Can I install artificial grass myself?
Yes, for many homeowners, artificial grass installation is an excellent DIY project. You can find many guides, products, and DIY-friendly resources to help you with every step of the process.
Hi! My name is Hellen James, and I’m here to help you with your home-maintenance needs. Whether it’s building a better yard or just trying to fix a garden—I can show you how.
