Ensure Youll Have Adequate Drainage
It’s always important to consider drainage.
Once the installation is complete, the last thing you want is water sitting on the surface of your new artificial lawn.
Ideally, there will be a slight fall on your concrete that will allow water to run off.
However, your existing concrete may not be perfectly flat, and you may have noticed that puddles appear in certain areas.
You can test this by hosing it down and checking to see if water sits anywhere.
If it does, it isn’t a major issue, but you’ll need to drill some drainage holes.
We advise using a 16mm bit to drill holes where any puddles form, then, fill these holes with 10mm shingle.
This will prevent puddling on your new fake grass.
Installing Artificial Grass On Concrete
Let us take a closer look at how to install astro turf on concrete while we’re at it.
Step 1: At the beginning, you need to be sure of what happens to the water. If you have proper drainage and water travels to the correct place don’t worry about this.
If you have puddles on your concrete and cracks, you might want to fix them. Some guides tell you to use a self-leveling compound and that is a good choice if you have flat level ground.
Those who have high slopes or greater uneven spots should use a firmer leveling compound that can be used for screeding the surface level. You would mix the compound, pour it in the slow spot, and level it with the rest of the ground with a long straight piece of wood or long trowel.
After that, you float the edges so it will be perfectly level with the rest of the concrete.
Step 2: Now it’s time for the drainage if you wish so. Personally, I’d invest in this as there might be multiple sorts of problems without and it’s also nice to use when it’s a bit softer surface if you decide to use sand or foam underlay.
If you just drill holes, remember to do them big enough. You can also drill when the grass is in place if you see unwanted water puddles.
Step 3: Install artificial grass foam underlay. If you have ever installed laminate, this is almost the same as the installation of foam under it.
You can also leave gaps in glue to let the water escape. Just look at what direction the water should go when you plan it.
Real turf on concrete
Trimming Artificial Turf Around Garden Features And Obstacles
Laying artificial turf is a similar process to laying a carpet. Where obstacles such as trees and posts need to be accommodated it is necessary to make a cut from the closest external edge of the turf to the obstacle before trimming away the excess turf around the feature.
Using a sharp knife make a cut from the closest perimeter edge to the obstacle taking care to cut between the piles and avoiding damage to the grass blades. This is important, if the blades of grass are damaged it will not be possible to achieve a neat seam when the turf is final fixed in place.
Starting at the base of the obstacle carefully use a sharp knife to splice the artificial grass roll. This will release the tension in the turf roll and allow it to lay flat around the perimeter of the obstacle.
Next ensure that the 2 cut edges of turf leading from the perimeter to the obstacle meet perfectly. If the 2 cut edges do not meet perfectly this indicates that the turf roll is still under slight tension and that further splicing and trimming around the base of the obstacle is required.
Installing The Foam Underlay
- When the concrete is completely dry, you can move on to the next step of installing the artificial grass foam underlay or shock pad.
- Lay the foam at one end of the concrete and make sure that it covers the entire concrete right up to the other edge.
- Roll the foam out and cut according to the shape required.
- Make sure that foam has been cut to cover the entire concrete area.
- Using masking tape, join all the foam pieces together.
- Now you can start the adhesive process.
- Add hardener to the glue and mix it thoroughly.
- Apply the glue to the concrete using a striping or filling knife and make sure that the glue layer is around 2-3 mm thick so that it bonds properly.
- If the water drainage is via the concrete rather than through the drainage holes, leave gaps in the adhesive to let the water escape.
Is Your Subfloor Suitable For Artificial Grass
Before fitting artificial grass to hard surfaces ensure the area you are covering is clean and free from any debris and dust. You also need to make sure there is good drainage in the area. For concrete, tarmac or patio surfaces, you may need to apply a self-levelling compound to remove surface imperfections.
When laying artificial grass over hard surfaces, you can either glue around the edges underneath the artificial grass. Glue the whole of the underneath of the artificial grass**. Staple/nail the grass to the sub-floor . Or use a combination of bonding options. If using adhesive, to allow the adhesive to bond successfully to the sub-floor, the surface must be completely dry.
**if you are fully gluing the underneath of your artificial grass, roll over with a weighted roller every fifteen minutes for an hour to help the adhesive bond. Allow the adhesive to dry for the glues specified time before walking over your new artificial grass.
How To Lay Artificial Grass On Concrete
- 7th June 2021
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Artificial grass can be a great way to improve a hard area in your garden. Artificial turf has a long lifespan and needs very little maintenance compared to a regular lawn.
Many people choose to cover their driveways, patios and other hard areas in artificial grass.
If you have moved into a house with a concrete or a large patch of concrete in the back you may want to transform it into something softer without having to remove it.
As a disclaimer, installing using this method is cheap, easy and anyone can do it but it will not be as soft or as well drained as professionally installed artificial grass.
Can Artificial Grass Be Installed On Concrete
Yes, artificial grass can be installed on concrete and asphalt that has adequate drainage and the integrity of the concrete hasn’t been compromised. You may need to repair minor damage before installing the grass including cracks or gaps larger than a 1/2″, craters or low spots. The grass will hide some imperfections especially if you use a tile or foam underlay but you should fix any large holes before starting the installation. We’ll discuss levelling and cleaning the concrete more below.
An is a great way to transform an abrasive concrete pool patio into a soft, inviting, non-slip area to lounge and enjoy in bare feet all summer long. You may even want to add some colour to a backyard patio, balcony or rooftop or transform a children’s play area. The applications are endless since artificial grass can be installed in just about any area as long as it’s done properly.
There are a few limitations that you should be aware of that will help you in deciding if artificial grass is a good idea or not. Artificial grass requires drainage and without proper drainage it can collect water that could potentially lead to mold or mildew. We discuss how to check for drainage issues and improve drainage with patio tiles or a levelling compound below.
Important Consideration Before Laying Artificial Grass On Concrete
Before proceeding to the installation process, here are some crucial factors that you must consider before installing artificial grass on concrete.
Condition of Concrete: You need to access the concrete surface condition where you are planning to lay artificial grass. Minor defects and holes can be ignored or patched in a short time. However, if there are large cracks or loose sections of asphalt, then it is recommended to not install turf directly on this surface, you can use an underlay over the concrete to proceed with the installation.
Artificial Grass on Concrete Drainage: It is one of the most important factors, especially if you are laying artificial grass outdoors. Ideally, there should be a slight slope on your concrete surface that allows water to flow off.
Dont Make These Mistakes When Installing Artificial Grass
You love your lawn. It’s a lovely emerald carpet that provides your home with an extra dose of color and curb appeal.
Sure, it can be a pain to mow, but you enjoy the way it looks, the smell of freshly cut grass on a warm summer evening.
Still, but there are times when grass just won’t cut it for your landscaping project. That’s where artificial grass can help.
Let’s say you have a swimming pool. Artificial turf will prevent grass clippings, mud and lawn fertilizer from getting in the water.
We had a client whose local municipality put impervious surface restrictions on their swimming pool project. By installing artificial grass between the pavers around their pool, they were able to avoid these restrictions, because when installed over dirt, artificial turf is permeable.
Do your kids have a backyard swing set? Some artificial grass provides them with cushiony fall protection while eliminating grass stains and muddy foot prints.
Using artificial grass to create a putting green or a bocce court can provide a unique – and fun – enhancement to your backyard.
And installing artificial grass – between flagstones or in larger swaths throughout your yard – can be easy…as long as you know what mistakes to avoid.
Here’s a guide to what not to do when you install artificial grass.
Step 5: Cut Around The Pavers
Now comes the most important step as far as the final appearance is concerned. Cutting between the pavers properly gives a beautiful clean-cut look to your yard. Do it badly, however, and you will end up with uneven and unpleasant gaps around your pavers.
Start with a small cut at the edge of the paver. The key to cutting around the pavers is to have the tip of the blade pressed on the hard edge of the paver, riding along the perimeter as you cut the grass.
Be sure to cut in small increments. Keep the excess grass rolled and pulled backward with your empty hand, and cut with an “up and back” motion to avoid damaging the grass fibers.
A standard utility blade or box cutter is fine for this job. However, you should switch out the blades frequently to keep the knife sharp and fresh.
The ideal end result is a small gap of about 1/8 inch between the paver and the grass. The grass blades will cover up this gap naturally.
You want to avoid making the gap too small because this causes the grass to compact and bunch up along the paver edge.
On the other hand, if the gap between the artificial grass and pavers is too wide, it is going to be visible, making the lawn look patchy and unprofessional.
No Chemical Sealants Required
Most types of paving, especially natural paving, greatly benefit from the application of a chemical sealant to increase their lifespan and protect the paving from the elements.
This should be done on a regular basis, perhaps every 2 to 3 years, to prevent discolouration of the paving.
This, of course, can be a costly procedure, as well as having a negative impact on the environment.
Fake turf, on the other hand, doesn’t require any form of chemical sealant or even any kind of pesticide, fertiliser or weedkiller, such as might be associated with real grass.
The best quality artificial grass lasts upwards of 20 years and beyond, without fading or discolouring due to the elements and, most importantly, without the need for the application of any chemical treatments.
Artificial grass and paving each have their strengths and their weaknesses.
In truth, both artificial grass and paving can work together in perfect harmony to create the low-maintenance garden of your dreams.
Many of our customers like to have a patio area to put their garden furniture on. Although it is possible to do this with good quality fake turf, garden furniture is generally best left on a hard standing, especially over the long term.
You can also combine paving and artificial grass to create stepping stones that will give any lawn the wow factor.
If you are considering having an artificial lawn installed, then we highly recommend you contact your nearest NeoGrass approved installer.
Step 3 Join The Edges
Regardless of the direction of the blades, once you have laid and settled the artificial grass, you have to join the edges to make a seamless join.
For a natural look, it is important to fix the joints perfectly, merging the edges of the rows to disguise their existence.
To do this, once you’ve laid all rows, raise the edges of two adjacent rows and spread joining tape under them. Add adhesive to the tape and glue the edges, keeping the blades away from the adhesive and paying attention not to overlap the joints.
Once fixed in place, use a rake to ruffle the pile and disguise the seal.
How To Install Artificial Grass Between Pavers: The Complete Guide
As we’ve mentioned above, the process of laying artificial grass between pavers is a bit trickier than normal. When combining artificial grass and pavers, there is more measurement and precision required, but the final results are worth the effort.
There are two methods to lay artificial grass between existing pavers. You can use the strip method or opt to cut around the pavers. Each of these has its pros and cons.
Like Paving Theres No Mud Or Mess
It may sound obvious, but many people forget that with artificial grass, there’s no mud or mess.
In this respect, it acts in much the same way as a hard surface.
If you are thinking about having a new, paved pathway to a garden shed, for example, why not consider using artificial grass instead?
You’ll no longer need a hard standing as you’ll be able to walk over your fake turf without having to worry about muddy feet, and you can use it come rain or shine. Of course, fake grass will also look far softer and far more natural looking in your garden, as opposed to a paved path.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Astroturf
It’s an appealing idea; a low-maintenance, high-quality lawn all year round, but as with all things, there are pros and cons to having artificial turf.
Here are some of the myths and facts associated with Astroturf.
- Lower maintenance. Obviously, with Astroturf there is no more need for mowing; however, it is a misconception that it needs little to no upkeep. Astroturf can still be prone to moss and algae, meaning that you will still have to sweep and possibly power-wash your lawn regularly.
- Durability. Artificial lawns do not last forever, but are usually guaranteed for between seven and ten years.
- Environmental factors. Having an artificial lawn negates the carbon emissions associated with petrol lawnmowers and certain fertilisers. However, you may find you do not see as great a variety of birds and insects, as many require real grass as part of their habitats.
Problems With Installing Artificial Grass On Concrete Or Asphalt
First and foremost, the most common problem with installing fake grass on concrete is inadequate drainage. When installed with a properly prepared base, synthetic lawns drain at about the same rate than natural lawns. This is not true when installed over concrete.
Water from rain, melting snow or nearby irrigation systems will not be able to drain into the base below the grass and may sit between your concrete and the backing material of the grass. This can cause mold or mildew issues under your grass, which could come up through the backing if left unchecked. It may also lead to standing water and large puddles on your grass, rendering it unusable until the water eventually drains or is removed.
You may read online that you can put a layer of sand between the concrete and grass to improve drainage; however, it is often the case that the sand will simply wash away over time, since it is sitting on top of a smooth, solid surface.
A second, common issue with installing artificial grass over concrete or asphalt is that the surface is hard and solid, so it does not provide the cushiony feel of real grass or the softer place to fall that children and pets enjoy while running and playing on natural grass or properly installed synthetic grass. If you do not plan on using your lawn for physical activities, this might not be an issue; however, if you have children, pets, grandchildren or any plans on using the grass yourself, you will need to take this into consideration.
Artificial Grass Drainage On Concrete
If your concrete had puddles forming on it, it’s likely that your new fake lawn will as well. Make sure there is a plan for drainage before installing your surface layers.
Drainage can be improved in a number of ways but it really depends on the surface. If you have flat concrete with one or two areas that pool it can be a good idea to to let the water drain into the soil below.
Make sure to use the and drill deep enough to allow water through
How To Install Artificial Grass On Concrete
We always advise using a professional to install artificial grass, as their experience will result in a better finish.
However, it is reasonably quick and easy to install artificial grass on concrete and if you have some DIY ability, you should be able to carry out an installation yourself.
Below you’ll find our step-by-step guide to help you along the way.
Step 5 Secure The Perimeter With Artificial Grass Glue
After the glue has cured, we can begin our next step – securing our artificial grass to the foam underlay.
Now that any joints have been secured, you’ll be able to fold back the grass at the edges and apply a layer of glue to the entire lawn perimeter.
Use the same methods we used when securing the foam underlay here.
Ensure that the glue runs continuously along every part of the perimeter, without leaving any gaps. These gaps will be potential weaknesses where it may be possible to lift the grass.
To ensure the grass and foam bond sufficiently, it’s advisable to stay off the grass for the next couple of hours, to prevent the fake grass from moving around underfoot.
If you have any artificial grass offcuts left over, you could use this time to do something useful with them.
There are many imaginative things you can do with artificial grass offcuts.
For example, you could cut the offcuts into a doormat, or a mat for budding golfers to practice their chipping off, or for covering shelving in a greenhouse, or even covering old garden tables and chairs.
Benefits Of Laying Artificial Grass On Concrete
So, now you know that it can be laid anywhere, you may be wondering about the benefits of having synthetic grass in your garden. Unsurprisingly, there are actually plenty of reasons to have it.
Firstly, it’s easy to maintain as there is absolutely no need for lawnmowers, a fact that will ultimately save you a ton of time. In addition, there’s no need to use any chemicals that may prevent the grass from growing or affect its colour. You also won’t need any weed killer as artificial grass is exactly what it says on the tin – grass and no weeds.
But it’s not just easy to maintain, it’s also safe. As there is no need to use chemicals on the grass, it means that children and animals can enjoy the garden without being at risk. Plus, it stays clean and has no mud, negating the risk of muddy paws or shoes walked through the house. Also, you can add a soft underlay which gives children a softer ground to fall on if they do stumble and fall, meaning it’s less likely to end in tears.
Artificial grass is also a huge money saver as there’s no need for chemicals or lawnmowers. The only real cost is the grass itself meaning that the cash saved can be spent elsewhere. This is probably one of the biggest benefits as everyone knows that gardens can be expensive, so it’s always best to save where you can.
Laying The Artificial Lawn On Uneven Concrete
The most important part of laying the artificial lawn on concrete of any type, especially if the surface is uneven is installing thefoam underlay. The foam underlay has many advantages:
- It acts as a shock pad and provides a softer underfoot for the lawn as placing the artificial lawn on hard concrete will make the underfoot feel significantly harder.
- It helps to prevent injury in case you fall, making it feel like a real lawn.
- Laying a foam underlay can help to hide the cracks and uneven ridges in the existing concrete, as laying the artificial lawn directly on top of the concrete will cause all the uneven surfaces to show up making the lawn look very messy and uneven.
Make sure that the foam underlay that you use is of high-quality, as recycled or poor-quality foam underlays can have problems.
Can You Lay Artificial Grass On Patio Or Paving
An Artificial grass paving installation is easily done, providing the existing patio or paving is in a good condition. It can also be installed with a layer of soft underlay to create more of a cushioned feel underfoot.
The grass can generally be stuck down using adhesive, or you can use a double sided tape. Be aware the adhesive for artificial grass installations is intended to be very strong so if you ever want to remove the grass it may leave a mark.
We would not recommend installing onto stones or slabs in poor condition as the grass may not be able to be secured effectively. This would not only hinder the appearance of your grass but create potential trip hazards!
The success of your artificial grass installation on top of patio or paving will also depend on how well the existing surface drains water. If you experience surface water then this will also occur with the artificial grass on top. This can be an issue for some concrete areas.
Installing Artificial Turf Trimming And Fixing The Edges Of The Artificial Turf
Using a sharp knife trim the corners and edges of the artificial turf at the lawn perimeters. Starting at the corners, fix the artificial turf in position using 6 inch galvanised nails at 75cm intervals along the perimeter edges. In areas where the pile runs away from the finished edge of the lawn roll the edge under itself and then brush the pile by hand towards finished lawn edge.
Step 3: Roll Out And Lay The Artificial Grass
After the ground is prepared, roll out the artificial grass on top of the pavers. Rest it there on a sunny day for at least 4 hours before installing – This will allow the fibers to stand up again, and the grass backing to mold and form around the pavers.
You can also walk in between the pavers to help the grass backing conform around the shape of the pavers. This will make the installation a lot easier later.
Ideally, you want to have the fibers naturally point towards the house for the best viewing angle. Each section should also have the fibers lined up and facing the same direction.
We recommend leaving a good amount of excess grass in between your panels – This will give you room for error when making joins between these pieces.
Learn To Fit Fake Grass In Just A Few Simple Steps
Are you dreaming of a perfectly manicured, healthy-looking lawn all year round? Fake turf could be a great solution. Quality artificial grass gives the feel of the natural stuff, requires a one-time installation, and eliminates all lawn maintenance costs and work.
Artificial grass doesn’t require an expensive irrigation system. It doesn’t require water at all, as a matter of fact. Just like it doesn’t require mowing or weeding. Your lawn will look great under the summer’s sun and the winter’s snow with little to no maintenance.
Fake turf is also easy to install by yourself on both soil and concrete. In this article, we aim to show you how to lay artificial grass and share our expert tips to help make the process easier.
In this guide – learn how to install artificial grass, including…