A Complete Guide to Artificial Grass for Rooftop Decks

San Diego is the ideal place to maximize outdoor spaces, including rooftop decks. Artificial grass rooftops in San Diego are growing in popularity as a low-maintenance way to beautify a space with a view. Let’s look at the trend and why you may want to incorporate turf into your rooftop plans.

Artificial Grass Rooftops: FAQs

There are some misconceptions about artificial turf on rooftops, especially the aesthetic appeal. Synthetic grass is more versatile than any other material. You can likely incorporate turf into your plans no matter what you have planned for your San Diego rooftop. 

Let’s look at a few more frequently asked questions about artificial grass rooftops and whether going synthetic is right for your San Diego project.

Can you put artificial grass on a roof?

You can put artificial grass on a roof as an alternative to natural grass as long as you consider rooftop surface areas. Deciding which turf option is right for you may come down to what you’re putting your turf on top of and the scope of your project.  

How much does it cost to install artificial turf in San Diego?

The cost of installing artificial turf in San Diego, whether you’re working with backyard space or a rooftop deck, depends on the size and scope of the project.

It may be more expensive to replace an existing turf project, for example, than install new artificial turf, especially if there were problems with the initial installation. Your local San Diego turf experts at US Turf can help you stay on budget with your rooftop turf install. Get a free estimate today if you’d like a better idea of the cost of your project.

Is artificial grass suitable for balconies?

Artificial grass is ideal for balconies because you can cut it down to the size you need. 

Whether you’re looking for a strip of green space in an awkwardly-shaped outdoor area or want a patch of turf for your pet, artificial size can be suitably sized to fit your needs. 

What artificial grass is best for a roof terrace?

The best synthetic grass for a roof terrace will depend on the kind of use you’re expecting in that space.

A more durable turf is more appropriate for areas with heavy foot traffic or areas where you’re expecting yard games. If it’s just for decorative purposes, you may want a more natural-looking synthetic grass. A professional turf company will ensure that the turf you choose drains well, too, a concern some home and business owners have about artificial grass on rooftops. 

Benefits of Artificial Grass Rooftops in San Diego

San Diego is known for its green spaces, and rooftops are no exception. Using artificial turf for those spaces comes with lots of advantages. Let’s take a look at a few:

• Artificial grass on decking looks good. It’s an attractive way to spruce up any outside space, let alone an area with a view.
• It’s a green roof without extensive maintenance. As with artificial turf in traditional yard space, you won’t need to water artificial grass or spend valuable time weeding. 
• It’s versatile. Mix it with natural plants for a unique garden space, create a play space for the kids, or use it in a pet run for pets who need more exercise. 
• It’s easy to incorporate into existing spaces. You don’t need to cover the entire rooftop space with artificial grass, and it works on most surfaces.
• Artificial grass is functional. You don’t need to worry about it being trampled if it’s going to get a lot of use or be affected by the weather. 
• It’s affordable. Your costs are minimal after installation, and you’ll be saving on a watering bill that would surely go up if you used real grass on your rooftop deck. 
• The turf acts as insulation for your home or business. It helps keep the spaces below warmer in the cold and cooler in the heat. That saves you money, too.
• It’s environmentally friendly. Reduce your water usage and add usable green space to your building with artificial turf.

Artificial Turf & Rooftops in San Diego

If you’ve decided on a rooftop artificial turf installation but lack inspiration, examples abound in and around San Diego for businesses that use turf to beautify their spaces. Here are a few:

El Prez: Sip on margaritas with a side of street tacos at this Pacific Beach rooftop hangout. This one keeps this casual with music, open gathering spaces, and lawn games on their expansive artificial turf area. 

SKA Bar: This Normal Heights hangout emphasizes airiness with tall windows and soft lighting in their interior space, but their rooftop terrace has made this a popular spot for locals. The lounge at the top offers excellent views of the neighborhood below, complete with turf underfoot that gives the space a finished look.

Upper East Bar: This buzzy space at the top of four-star hotel Solamar San Diego is perfect for hot weather days, as it comes with a poolside bar. Upgrade your experience with a private cabana booked through the hotel’s concierge service. Otherwise, covered lounge seating around the bar’s turf is first come, first served.

Things to Consider With Artificial Grass on Decking

Before installing artificial grass on your rooftop space, you must consider a few things that will help make sure your project is successful and meets your wants and needs. Here’s a good checklist before getting started with a rooftop turf project:

• Identify the goals for your rooftop space. Putting greens require different materials than artificial turf for dog parks and pet relief areas. If you expect quite a bit of foot traffic, you may want something soft but sturdy underfoot.
• Avoid installing turf around open fires. If you’re planning on grilling or installing fire pits on your rooftop deck, avoid laying out turf anywhere embers are possible. Fire and heat can permanently damage artificial turf.
• Take exact measurements. What you have planned may not be feasible. A professional turf company will make sure that the size of your space fits the size of your design plans and vice versa.
• Weight matters. You won’t be able to install fresh turf on your rooftop deck if you don’t know whether your roof will support the weight of the installation and any add-ons. That means everything from additional furniture to potential foot traffic.
• Consider surface areas. Turf experts will also know whether the surface area you’re working with will work with your project. Turf is incredibly versatile, but different surfaces will require unique treatments. 
• Don’t ignore waterproofing. You’ll want to do some waterproofing if the surface area is wooden decking to prevent wood rot down the line. A professional turf installer will know what to recommend across surface areas, including drainage solutions. 
• Hire a turf expert. Make sure you’re working with an established company that has experience with artificial turf and installing turfs on rooftops.

Choose the Turf Experts for Your San Diego Projects 

Whether you’re planning a home project or commercial artificial grass installation, hiring a professional turf company will be the best way to ensure you’re happy with your rooftop project from the planning stages to the finishing touches. 

DIY projects or improper installations can lead to drainage issues, lumpy surface areas, and unattractive spaces that won’t add anything of value to your rooftop deck. This isn’t a project you want to cut corners on.
Are you considering artificial grass on your rooftop deck? With extensive experience in residential and commercial projects, we have the expertise you need to complete your project safely, efficiently, and beautifully. Contact us today at US Turf, San Diego’s artificial turf experts.