At Unreal Lawns & Courts, we know that synthetic grass underlay is often overlooked, yet it’s a game-changer for artificial turf installations.
This hidden hero plays a vital role in enhancing the performance, and comfort of your synthetic lawn.
In this post, we’ll explore the importance of underlay and how it can significantly improve your artificial grass experience.
What Is Synthetic Grass Underlay?
Artificial grass underlay is the unsung hero of artificial turf installations. It’s a layer of material placed between the ground and the artificial grass, serving as a vital foundation for your synthetic lawn. Quality underlay can transform an ordinary installation into an exceptional one.
The Purpose of Synthetic Grass Underlay
Underlay cushions fall, dramatically reducing the risk of injuries — especially for children or athletes.
Many underlays meet or exceed fall-height regulations (CFH ratings), which are vital for compliance in Childcare centers and public playgrounds.
Underlay systems often feature channels that direct water away from the surface, making play areas usable even after heavy rain.
Combined with artificial turf, it creates a stable and grippy surface that’s ideal for running, jumping, and tackling. No mud, bare patches, or recovery downtime between seasons.
The primary purpose of synthetic grass underlay is It acts as a shock absorber, cushions the impact and reduces the risk of injuries. This is particularly important in sports fields playgrounds and childcare centers where safety is paramount.
Common Underlay Materials
Several types of underlay materials are commonly used in the industry:
- Foam Underlay: Made from polyethylene or polypropylene, foam underlay is popular due to its excellent shock absorption properties.
- Rubber Underlay: Often made from recycled tyres, rubber underlay offers superior durability and is ideal for high-traffic areas.
Installation Considerations
Proper preparation is key when installing synthetic grass underlay. The ground should be levelled and compacted before laying the underlay. This ensures even distribution of pressure and prevents future settling issues.
It’s also important to choose the right thickness of synthetic grass underlay. For residential applications, a thickness of 10-15mm is typically sufficient. However, for sports fields or playgrounds, thicker underlays of 10-50mm may be necessary to provide adequate shock absorption.
The choice of underlay material and thickness can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your synthetic grass installation. In the next section, we’ll explore the key benefits of quality synthetic grass underlay and how it can enhance your artificial turf experience.
Why Quality Underlay Matters
Enhanced Safety and Comfort
High-quality underlay improves shock absorption, which makes synthetic lawns safer and more comfortable. This matters especially in areas where falls occur frequently, such as playgrounds or sports fields.
Noise Reduction
Quality underlay also contributes to noise reduction. It absorbs sound waves, which decreases the noise generated when walking or playing on the synthetic grass.
The right synthetic grass underlay creates a lush, durable, and comfortable synthetic lawn that stands the test of time. When selecting underlay, consider your specific usage needs, and the type of artificial grass you plan to install. The next section will guide you through the process of choosing the perfect underlay for your artificial grass project.
How to Select the Perfect Underlay
Assess Your Needs
The selection of the right synthetic grass underlay for your artificial grass project will significantly impact its long-term performance and your satisfaction. The first step involves an assessment of your specific requirements. Consider the primary use of your synthetic lawn. A high-traffic area like a sports field will require different properties compared to a more relaxed residential setting. The intended use will dictate the level of shock absorption and durability needed.
For playground installations, you’ll want a synthetic grass underlay with superior shock-absorbing properties to enhance safety. Falls from equipment are the main cause of playground injuries, and New Zealand Standards (NZS5828:2015) restrict the height of play equipment to reduce the distance a child can fall.
Choose the Right Material
The material of your underlay plays a significant role in its performance. Foam underlays, typically made from polyethylene or polypropylene, offer excellent shock absorption and are ideal for residential applications, Sports and playgrounds. Rubber underlays, often made from recycled tyres, provide durability.
Proper installation will maximise the benefits of your chosen underlay. Always start with a well-prepared base. Level and compact the ground to prevent future settling issues. This step is often overlooked but is essential for the longevity of your artificial grass system.
The thickness of your synthetic grass underlay is another important consideration. For most residential applications, a thickness of 10-15mm suffices. However, for sports fields or areas with heavy foot traffic, consider underlay of 10-25mm for playgrounds 30-50mm for enhanced shock absorption.
Avoid Common Mistakes
One common mistake is to skimp on underlay quality to cut costs. While it might seem like a good idea initially, it often leads to premature wear and tear of the turf, resulting in higher long-term expenses. Investing in quality underlay from the start can extend the lifespan of your underlay and artificial turf.
Check the compatibility of your chosen underlay with your specific type of artificial grass. Not all underlays work well with all types of synthetic turf. Consult with professionals or the manufacturer to ensure you’re making the right choice.
Final Thoughts
Synthetic grass underlay serves as the foundation for exceptional artificial turf installations. It improves shock absorption, ensuring your investment pays off for years. Quality underlay transforms outdoor spaces into lush, comfortable, and durable areas that withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions.
Professional guidance proves invaluable when selecting and installing synthetic grass underlay. Unreal Lawns offers premium artificial grass solutions tailored to New Zealand’s unique climate and lifestyle needs. Our team of experts can help you choose the perfect underlay for your specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance and longevity for your synthetic turf.
The success of your artificial grass installation depends largely on what lies beneath. Quality underlay sets the stage for a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting synthetic lawn (one that will serve you well for years to come). Prioritise synthetic grass underlay to maximise the benefits of your artificial turf investment.
