Artificial grass underlay: the solution to your fake turf reservations
We can all agree – fake turf no longer looks fake.
Gone are the days of the bright green, plastic swatches commonly seen in fruit and veg shops. Now, artificial grass is created from advanced materials – which prevent the unnatural glare of synthetic fibres – and uses multiple shades of green to create an impressive realistic effect. In many cases, it’s a struggle to spot the difference.
Yet, when it comes to making the switch from authentic to artificial, many people still have reservations. Reservations that, in our opinion, are a bit unfounded.
As a leading online supplier, perhaps you could call us biased. But the truth is, most of the doubts or concerns that customers have regarding artificial grass are based on old myths and misconceptions. And usually, they can be easily avoided with one simple, affordable product.
Artificial grass underlay.
Let’s take a look at how.
Common customer ‘concerns’ regarding artificial grass
And how underlay provides a solution.
1. Complex installation
To get the best results, it’s important that artificial turf is installed correctly.
Appropriate foundations are essential. So the area may need to be excavated 75-100mm below the ground, allowing a sub-base of sharp sand or granite dust to be laid and evenly spread. Which then needs to be compacted thoroughly to create a level surface, free from any lumps or bumps.
It’s a process that takes a lot of time and effort – especially if you’re doing it yourself. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Using artificial grass foam underlay completely removes the need to excavate or add foundations. Whether you’re laying turf over soil, concrete or decking, the underlay can simply be rolled out – levelling out any imperfections with zero prep work and simplifying the overall fitting process.
2. Unsightly seams
Worried that join lines will spoil the appearance of your faux lawn?
There’s no denying, this is a common issue with artificial grass. If fitted directly onto the ground, lines, streaks and ridges can often form – caused by the soil, concrete or decking underneath. And once these defects have appeared, it can be tricky (and expensive) to resolve the problem.
But there is an easy way to avoid it in the first place.
You guessed it – fake grass underlay. Sandwiched between the sub-ground and turf, this extra layer of foam successfully hides any imperfections, concealing these lines and ridges – as well as any other noticeable bumps – and ensuring your new fake grass is as smooth, flat and lush as possible.
3. An ‘unreal’ feel
Whether you’re relaxing on it, walking on it, or the kids are playing on it, the ideal grass is soft and comfy – and many people worry about how a hard, plastic alternative will feel underfoot.
The truth is there’s absolutely nothing to worry about.
Yes, some fake grass products may feel better than others – particularly those which are higher quality or have a longer pile height. But whichever option you go for, the addition of a good artificial turf underlay is all it takes to ensure the lawn feels as natural and comfortable as the real deal.
In fact, it often feels much better!
Made from a spongey memory foam, underlay significantly enhances the feel of fake grass, creating a cushioned and luxurious surface to walk on – without the potential discomfort of weeds or stones. And as an extra layer of protection, it also softens the impact of any trips or falls and helps to minimise injuries.
4. Poor durability
Admittedly, fake grass blades don’t stay fluffy forever – they tend to flatten over time, especially in high traffic areas. Add in concerns about poor drainage, pet odours, weed growth, moss build-up and the potential for colour fading due to the sun, and it can be enough to put many people off.
But in reality? These concerns aren’t really an issue.
Artificial grass, in itself, is a highly durable product – permeable to water and 100% UV resistant. And the addition of a high-quality grass underlay can make a huge difference to its longevity.
Due to the materials from which it’s made, underlay acts as a fantastic shock absorber – capable of withstanding heavy impacts and high levels of footfall. It also encourages the blades to spring back following use and significantly reduces the overall day-to-day wear and tear of the turf.
In fact, it’s been shown to extend the lifespan of fake grass by up to 50%!
Feeling reassured?
Faux grass certainly isn’t maintenance or problem-free. However, most issues that do occur are usually due to poor installation. And if you do have any concerns, the best advice is to invest in a good artificial grass underlay – which will significantly simplify the installation process and help to avoid these issues altogether.
Our recommended product is Soft Turf Artificial Shock Pad – priced at £63.50.
Constructed from enhanced memory foam, this can be fitted on both soft and hard surfaces, either loosely or secured in place with staples, nails or pegs. And thanks to its list of impressive features, it can mitigate these common problems and ensure your new lawn looks and feels it’s absolute best.
So why not take a look?
If you’re still not convinced or would like to learn more about how Soft Turf can help, further information can be found in our previous blogs ‘Do I need artificial grass underlay?’ and ‘Which is the best shockpad underlay for artificial grass?
You’re also welcome to contact us at any time. Yes, as a stockist, we may be biased in our opinion of artificial grass – of course we think it’s great! But we’ll answer your questions honestly and can offer specialist advice on the best artificial grass and underlay for your needs.
Simply give us a call on 0203 887 0994. Or if you prefer, send an email to sales@carpet-underlay-shop.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
- Alex Illidge