If your backyard has an existing hard surface like pavement or concrete that needs a facelift, artificial grass can be just the solution to turn a plain looking space into a lush backyard.
How to Install Artificial Grass on Concrete
In fact, artificial grass can be installed on top of concrete, block paving and even patio paving slabs. That being said, there are some problems with laying down turf on these types of solid surfaces, the most common issue being inadequate drainage — this can cause mold or mildew issues under the grass since excess water has nowhere to go. Drainage can be improved in a number of ways like adding a layer of sand between the concrete and turf or by drilling holes into the concrete to allow for water to drain into the earth below.
Similar to how to install turf on a soil surface, there are a number of steps you should follow for proper installation.
Step 1: Measure the Area
Plan out the length and width of the area you intend to cover, while factoring in any joins you may need to have if you’re working with multiple pieces of turf.
Step 2: Clear off the Area
Next you’ll want to ensure the surface is brushed off and there is no debris like trash, weeds or major cracks that will cause an uneven surface. If your concrete or brick surface is especially dirty, it may require that you power wash the area to start fresh with a clean and even surface.
Furthermore, if your concrete surface has large cracks or is uneven, it may not be a good surface for a base. In this case we recommend removing the concrete and following the soil base method discussed above.
Step 3: Cover the Area with Foam or Shock Pads
One downside to laying down artificial grass on a concrete or pavement surface is the lack of cushion. If you plan to have kids or pets playing in this area, padding is something you’ll likely want to consider to provide more cushioning for falls.
Roll out designated foam or shock pads onto the areas before laying down your turf.
Step 4: Lay the Artificial Grass on the Foam/Pads
Next, it’s time to lay down the artificial grass on the newly padded space. Similar to a soil surface, you’ll want to roll out the turf onto the space and let it sit for 2-3 hours, if not overnight, to let the material settle and and prevent wrinkles or creases before you join the rolls and secure the edges.
Step 5: Seam your turf pieces together
Similar to the process of installing artificial grass on soil, connect any joins of the turf pieces with outdoor tape or turf glue by applying tape lengthwise to the bottom side of turf, lining up the turf edges to match the lines on the seaming tape and applying pressure.
Step 6: Trim Where Necessary
After seaming together the joins and letting the adhesive set, it’s time to trim the excess material at the borders of your artificial grass. Trim and cut using a carpet knife or similar razor for a clean edge.
Step 7: Secure the Grass
When installing artificial grass on concrete, you won’t have the ability to pin down the turf like you would with a soil base. In this case, it’s recommended to join the back of the artificial grass and concrete base with an adhesive. Do so every 6-8 inches along the perimeter of the grass.
An alternative option is to secure the edges of the perimeter with plants or other garden accessories. However, this won’t provide as secure of an installation as adhesive.
Enjoy Your New Artificial Turf!
If after reading this guide you’ve decided you’d rather leave it to the professionals, Turfken Ltd has you covered! We serve Kenya and the greater East African Countries with a variety of outdoor living services including Landscape and paver installation, Sports Floors, vertical garden wall installation, landscape design and artificial turf installation services.