Can I Just Lay Artificial Grass On Top Of Grass?

The most common question is: Is it possible to install artificial grass over an existing lawn? You certainly can. It's not always the wisest course of action, though, even if you can accomplish it. Not that putting turf over grass doesn't have advantages. It makes sense to install artificial grass over your current lawn if you have one. It has superior aesthetics compared to other ground cover and offers additional advantages, including greater endurance and less upkeep.

Is it Possible to Lay Fake Grass over Existing Turf?

It is possible to install synthetic grass turf over your current lawn. Because it is simpler to install and saves money, it is a smart idea. There's usually a cost associated with getting things done quickly and easily, and installing artificial turf is no exception.

Before laying artificial turf, the natural lawn must be removed and a smooth base must be created. Any grass on your lawn can be removed with a sod cutter or sod stripper, but you'll need to level out any spots that aren't thick enough to fill with artificial turf.

This is due to the fact that artificial turf needs a smooth base to stay in place; otherwise, when it rains or gets muddy, the turf may come loose. If artificial grass is laid over natural turf, the natural grass will naturally attempt to live. Water-draining holes and an absorbent backing are features of synthetic grass. Usually, grass finds its way through these openings and compacts underneath. Consequently, it gives the lawn ridges and bumps, which are ugly. Putting a sub-base on top of natural grass alone is also not a long-term fix. When installing artificial grass on top of turf, the best course of action is to remove your current lawn to maximise your investment.

How to install fake grass over existing grass:

Step 1: Prepare the ground

Perhaps the most crucial aspect of installing artificial grass over a natural lawn is preparing the ground. Make sure that throughout the groundwork procedure, there are no cables or pipelines providing essential services to your property that could be damaged. Make sure there is sufficient drainage in the area you want to grass.

The current grass must be removed in the first step by using a turf cutter. A surface free of any grass is what you'll need. To maximise your chances of not seeing weeds growing through the artificial grass, apply a thick layer of weed killer after that.

Fit your weed membrane next. This is an essential addition to your arsenal of anti-weed tools. Adjust your edging now. This is a helpful but optional step if you wish to plant the spaces surrounding your lawn. Ensure that it does not rest above the last line of grass.

Filling the space with type 1 aggregate is the next stage. Proceed to around a 60 mm level. After using a wacker plate to compact the aggregate, spread a layer of sharp sand on top. To level things out, use a screed bar.

Step 2: Put in the underlay

Make sure the underlay roll is precisely up against the edge of your surround when you begin at one end of the area where you plan to lay grass. After rolling it out, cut it into the required form. Continue until you have covered the whole area. Secure any loose underlay pieces together with jointing tape. You should make a single sheet that you can use tacks to secure around the perimeter of your lawned space. Space them 10–20 cm apart.

Also Read:- 

Laying Artificial Grass – The Complete Guide to Everything

A Step-By-Step Guide To Laying Artificial Grass On Concrete

Artificial Grass Cost Estimation For Your Artificial Lawn

What Goes Under Artificial Grass

Step 3: Lay your artificial grass

Spread out your artificial grass across the desired coverage area. To ensure you have enough room to trim and produce the ideal edge, give yourself an extra 5cm on both sides. Relax, there's nothing to worry about; wrinkles and creases are normal. Allow the fake grass to settle so that the creases disappear by leaving it for at least two to three hours. You can begin cutting it to size before fastening it down after everything is nice and flat.

With the underside facing up, trim the artificial grass. To avoid cutting through the stitches, adhere to the stitch lines. You will get a smooth edge as a result. It could be necessary to attach two or more artificial grass pieces together if you have a vast area of turf. The individual pieces will move independently when walked on, exposing all the joints and avoiding glueing them directly onto the underlay. Rather, adhere to these jointing guidelines.

Step 4: Brush and sand the synthetic grass

Sand that has been kiln-dried is what we advise filling in the new artificial lawn. It lessens the likelihood of creases developing by stabilising the artificial turf in place. Additionally, it maintains the fake grass fibres' greatest appearance and protects them. To avoid weeds, choose sand that is free of them.

When the infill stage is finished, use a stiff or motorised broom to sweep it through. The fibres will be lifted if you move in the direction of the pile.

After Fitting:

-Using a plastic rake or stiff brush can help preserve the aesthetic appeal of fake grass.

-Using a leaf blower, broom, or leaf rake, remove any remaining particles. Then, use water to wipe up any spills.

-Use caution when setting up playground equipment for kids or garden furniture on artificial grass. To lessen dents, try spreading the weight.

-Any artificial grass should always be kept away from barbecues and other hot items.

Should artificial grass be laid over turf?

Who asks the question and why could determine the definitive response to this technological query. To save a few bucks, it's not a good idea to lay fake grass on top of natural grass if you plan to use it in a professional setting (like a corporate garden or golf course).

Which method is ideal depends mostly on how you want to use the grass and how much money you have to work with. It is advised to remove 35–50 mm of topsoil before installing artificial grass on top of the turf. This will free up enough room for you to lay down the proper sub-base, which can be sand or granite.

Frequently Asked Questions:- 

Can artificial grass be laid directly over natural grass?
Yes, it can be laid over natural grass, but it is not recommended for long-term durability because natural grass may grow through the drainage holes.

Why should natural grass be removed before installing artificial turf?
Removing natural grass ensures a smooth base and prevents weeds or grass from growing underneath the artificial turf.

How much soil should be removed before installing artificial grass?
It is recommended to remove around 35 mm to 50 mm of topsoil to make space for the sub-base and proper drainage.

What base is used under artificial grass?
A compacted layer of type 1 aggregate followed by sharp sand is commonly used as a sub-base for artificial grass installation.

Why is kiln-dried sand used in artificial grass?
Kiln dried sand helps stabilise the turf, keeps the fibres upright, and improves the overall appearance of the artificial lawn.

How long should artificial grass settle before trimming?
Artificial grass should be left for about two to three hours so wrinkles and creases can flatten before trimming and fixing it.

Also, if you are looking for good options for Rugs, Carpets, and Vinyl Flooring, please click below to visit:

Rugs

Carpets

Vinyl Flooring