What is the Perfect Base for Artificial Turf?
Emily Greenfield
April 26, 2024
What is the Perfect Base for Artificial Turf?
So, you’ve decided to abandon the never-ending task of mowing and embrace the low-effort lifestyle afforded by artificial turf. Excellent decision! However, before indulging in visions of backyard barbecues taking place in your luxuriant green sanctuary, there is an essential prerequisite: constructing the ideal foundation.
The base for artificial turf is considered the cornerstone of your home. A sturdy foundation guarantees that your synthetic turf remains even, facilitates proper drainage, and provides years of enjoyable use.
Let’s immerse ourselves in the world of turf foundations, examine the various varieties available, and empower you with the understanding to construct a flawless groundwork for your synthetic oasis.
Understanding the Purpose of a Base for Artificial Turf
Picture this scenario: you have successfully installed your attractive new turf, only to discover it accumulates water after a rainfall or, even worse, sinks unevenly when walked upon. That is the point at which the base becomes relevant. It fulfills various crucial functions, including:
- Drainage: Water drainage is expedited by a solid foundation, consequently averting the formation of stagnant water and inhibiting the proliferation of mold or mildew.
- Stability: It establishes a sturdy base that inhibits the turf from experiencing any shifting or sinking over an extended period. It is the base on which to lay artificial grass properly.
- Leveling: The artificial lawn foundation guarantees a seamless and uniform terrain, providing a pleasant ambulation and recreational encounter.
- Weed Prevention: Weed control is facilitated by a suitable foundation, which inhibits the growth of unwanted plants and maintains the impeccable appearance of your synthetic lawn.
Types of Bases for Artificial Turf
Now that you have comprehended the significance of a good base for artificial turf, let’s delve into the various materials frequently employed:
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Crushed Miscellaneous Base/Class II Road Base
Crushed miscellaneous base or Class II road base is a type of material that has been pulverized and is commonly used as a foundation for roads. This particular choice is widely favored and provides excellent value for money.
It comprises a blend of pulverized concrete, asphalt, and gravel, which promotes efficient water drainage and establishes a solid base. Consider it the dependable foundation for turf surfaces. Class II road base shares similarities with regular road base but is more densely packed, rendering it well-suited for areas with heavy footfall.
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Decomposed Granite
DG, or decomposed granite, is a blend of crushed granite that produces a flat and even surface, known for its exceptional permeability that enables superior drainage. Nonetheless, DG is inclined to be slightly more expensive compared to CMB.
Selecting the Appropriate Foundation:
Both CMB and DG are highly recommended options. Take into account your financial resources and the specific purpose of your turf. In instances where there is a significant amount of foot traffic or when superior drainage is essential, DG may present itself as the more favorable choice.
Components of the Perfect Base
An ideal base for artificial turf commonly consists of three layers:
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Sub-base Layer
Typically made up of excavated soil or crushed rock, this initial layer serves the primary function of establishing a flat base and resolving any drainage concerns within the natural soil.
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Base Layer
This layer, known as the workhorse layer, is usually constructed using CMB or DG and serves the purposes of offering stability, facilitating drainage, and aiding in surface leveling.
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Levelling Layer
The ultimate surface, frequently composed of sand, crushed gravel, or a specialized turf underlayment, is responsible for establishing a polished and finely adjusted area for the installation of the turf, even when installing turf on dirt.
Why Does the Ground Need to be Prepared for Turf?
Merely placing turf on top of existing grass or uneven terrain can lead to unfavorable outcomes. Here’s why thorough ground preparation is crucial:
- When the ground is not level, the turf may develop waves or gather in certain areas, resulting in an artificial appearance and potentially uncomfortable walking surfaces.
- Over time, the presence of preexisting plants can go through decomposition, leading to an uneven settling of the turf.
- Insufficient drainage can result in the accumulation of water, which can cause harm to the turf and serve as a suitable habitat for mosquitoes to breed.
What Tools Are Needed To Install An Artificial Grass Base?
Depending on the scope of your project and the base material for artificial turf, you may require:
- Shovel
- Rake
- Plate compactor (highly recommended for compacting the base layers)
- Edging materials
- Tamper (for smaller areas)
- Wheelbarrow (for moving materials)
- Level and string line (for creating a level base)
Safety Reminder: To prevent injuries while handling hefty materials, it is advisable to wear gloves and durable footwear, or contact a professional!
Looking for an artificial grass installation in Las Vegas? We can help!
Installation Tips for a Perfect Turf Base
Listed below are some valuable tips to guarantee the excellence of your base layer for artificial turf:
- Excavate Properly: Ensure proper excavation by eliminating any current vegetation, rocks, or debris. Strive for a depth that allows for the placement of all three base layers.
- Level the Ground: Use a level and string line to ensure a perfectly even surface.
- Compact Each Layer: During the process of adding each layer, including the sub-base, base material, and leveling layer, it is crucial to employ a plate compactor to establish a solid and secure foundation.
- Focus on Drainage: In the case of inadequate soil drainage, it is advisable to incorporate a perforated drainage pipe beneath the foundational layer.
- Don’t Skimp on Materials: Employing top-notch materials guarantees a durable and functional foundation.
Do I need a professional to prepare the base?
Setting up base prep for artificial turf can be undertaken as a do-it-yourself endeavor, although it necessitates dedication of time, effort, and the acquisition of appropriate equipment.
Here’s when it might be prudent to take into account the services of a professional on an artificial grass base:
- When dealing with large or intricate projects, it may be advisable to entrust the task to seasoned installers who have expertise in handling extensive areas or uneven surface terrain.
- If your property experiences significant problems with drainage, it is advisable to consult a professional who can evaluate the situation and suggest the most suitable resolution.
- Whether you have limited time availability or lack the necessary do-it-yourself expertise, enlisting the services of a professional can be advantageous, as it will not only save you time but also guarantee a top-notch artificial turf installation.
Contact our professionals and learn more about the perfect artificial turf for you!
And there you have it! Now you possess the necessary information to construct the ideal base for an artificial grass haven. It is important to keep in mind that constructing a solid foundation is an investment that guarantees a visually appealing and fully functional turf for an extended period of time.
Whether you opt to undertake the task yourself or enlist the services of a qualified expert, emphasizing utilizing top-notch materials and employing appropriate installation processes and methods should be your primary focus. Once you have established a firm base, your synthetic grass will be prepared to accommodate numerous backyard gatherings, quality time with family, and hassle-free satisfaction.
