Artificial turf is a versatile lawn alternative that can be installed on several different kinds of surfaces. It can replace a real lawn on top of existing soil, be layered over wooden decks or patios, or worked in with real lawns for a blended effect.
Artificial turf can work well as a putting green for golfers working on their short game, as a dog run for pet owners, or as recreational spaces where softer surfaces are ideal, even safer when in use. We’ll focus on hard surfaces that work well with artificial turf and how to install artificial grass on concrete and asphalt.
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Artificial turf can dramatically improve the look and feel of spaces. Where does artificial turf on hard surfaces work best, and what are the top advantages of artificial turf on concrete and asphalt?
High-traffic areas like recreational spaces for children are great places to add some additional padding and artificial grass. Turf reduces chances for injuries, slips, and falls, as those hard surfaces underneath can get quite slick when wet. Artificial grass can cushion a fall if it does happen, a reason why artificial turf installation is growing in popularity around slippery pool areas.
Turf works on indoor surfaces, particularly in gyms and other sporting facilities looking to mimic outdoor environments. Artificial grass is more comfortable than carpeted surfaces and easier on the joints than those hard surfaces underneath the artificial turf layer.
Artificial turf can be cut down and shaped to fit over any existing hard spaces. It comes in many colors and styles to fit any aesthetic and blends in with more natural environments or stands out when it needs to.
The ideal base for artificial turf will depend on your project and the thickness you decide to go with, and the purpose of your artificial turf installation. In recreational spaces like sports fields and playgrounds, an additional layer of padding may be recommended to allow for a bit more give and a safer space.
Concrete and asphalt surfaces can look cold and uninviting. In environments with limited space like apartment buildings and condo complexes where natural grass isn’t feasible or even wanted due to cost and maintenance, synthetic grass can be the answer.
Commercial artificial turf can improve the curb appeal of a building and bring amenities to life. Onsite dog parks, outdoor workout areas, and rooftop lounges give residents access to beautiful green spaces that are low-maintenance, can stand up to wear and tear, and good for the environment.
If you’re working with a small space, you may be able to get away with simply affixing your artificial turf onto that area without much additional prep.
But if you’re working with a larger space and want a more professional, seamless look for your residential artificial turf or at your business, there are several additional steps to installing artificial lawn on asphalt or concrete.
You’ll need to measure out how much turf you’ll need to cover your asphalt or concrete space and determine the next steps in your turf installation project.
The concrete or asphalt getting the turf treatment needs to be clean of any dirt or debris and sufficiently dry after a thorough wash. If the hard surface underneath lacks proper drainage, which will be obvious if water is pooling on the surface during its wash, you may need to drill drainage holes to prevent the potential for mold and mildew underneath your new turf.
The underlay is an additional layer that goes underneath the artificial grass. That added cushion is usually recommended for projects that involve concrete and asphalt. It makes the surface softer and safer, particularly if it will be used for sports and recreation.
An underlay is installed using an adhesive, with attention paid to drainage holes as necessary to allow for water to escape.
Once your underlay is installed, and in place, it’s finally time to lay out your artificial turf. The turf should be rolled out to cover your hard space and the installed underlay completely. The turf is affixed to the surface using an adhesive, as well, and you can wait on cutting the turf roll to size until you see where it’s hanging over the surface underneath.
To give it a more natural look or return it to its intended shape, brush out your turf to get the blades looking how you want them. A broom with stiff bristles works for this last task.
If you lack the expertise around installing artificial lawn on asphalt, there are a few things that can go wrong, including a lumpy surface, water pooling in areas where the turf was not laid out properly, and a lack of drainage that can lead to mold or mildew underneath your turf layer.
If you’re pursuing a DIY project on a surface unsuitable for turf, like cracked concrete that wouldn’t allow the turf to lay flat, you’re already starting a project with problems you may not be able to come back from.
The easiest way around any obstacles in working with turf installation on concrete is hiring a team of professionals who work with artificial turf installations in San Diego to do the work for you. Contact us at USTurf for advice on moving forward with your installation or to get a free quote on your dream project. We’re the artificial turf installation San Diego can trust.
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