A strong and well-prepared base is the foundation of a long-lasting and visually appealing artificial turf installation. The base supports the turf, ensures proper drainage, prevents uneven surfaces, and maintains the overall integrity of the lawn over time. Selecting the right base material depends on soil type, climate, and usage, but certain materials have proven to perform better for most residential, commercial, and sports applications.
A properly constructed base layer does more than simply hold the turf in place. It:
Promotes drainage, preventing water accumulation that could lead to mold or surface damage.
Provides stability, keeping the surface level and preventing ripples or sinking areas.
Improves longevity, reducing wear and tear on the turf backing.
Enhances comfort, offering a firm yet slightly cushioned feel underfoot.
Without the right base, artificial turf may shift, wrinkle, or develop drainage issues after only a short period of use.
Crushed stone is one of the most popular base options due to its excellent drainage properties and structural stability. It typically consists of crushed granite or limestone, compacted into layers. The ideal stone size ranges from 10 to 20 millimeters to create a solid, free-draining foundation.
Advantages
Allows water to drain quickly through the gaps.
Offers strong load-bearing capacity.
Resists shifting even under heavy traffic.
This type of base works well in both residential landscapes and sports fields where consistent performance is essential.
Decomposed granite, often used in dry regions, provides a smooth and compact base with excellent stability. It forms a firm layer once compacted but still allows for some drainage. This makes it suitable for areas with limited rainfall or where a fine, level surface is required.
Advantages
Smooth, consistent surface for precise turf installation.
Suitable for moderate drainage environments.
Easier to level and grade compared to larger aggregate bases.
However, decomposed granite may retain moisture in heavy rainfall areas, so it is less ideal for wet climates.
A mix of crushed rock and fine particles creates a dense and well-compacted base layer that locks together tightly. This combination provides both structural strength and effective water flow, preventing shifting underfoot.
Advantages
Excellent for high-traffic areas such as playgrounds and sports grounds.
Maintains evenness over time.
Supports strong edge stability around borders.
Recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) is an eco-friendly base alternative that reuses crushed concrete materials. It offers similar performance to crushed stone at a lower environmental impact and cost.
Advantages
Sustainable and cost-effective.
Provides solid compaction and reliable drainage.
Suitable for large-scale commercial installations.
When using RCA, ensure the material is clean and free of debris or dust to maintain optimal permeability.
In some smaller or temporary installations, compacted coarse sand can serve as a base. It provides a soft feel underfoot and is easy to install, but it does not have the structural integrity required for heavy traffic areas.
Advantages
Simple and inexpensive.
Soft and comfortable surface.
Ideal for small garden or decorative applications.
Sand bases are best suited for decorative areas or low-traffic landscaping rather than sports or commercial applications.
Remove 7–10 centimeters of existing soil to create room for the base layers. Ensure the subgrade is free of organic matter, roots, or soft soil that may settle later.
Use a plate compactor to firmly compress the soil. A stable subgrade prevents future unevenness and enhances drainage.
Spread the chosen base material evenly across the surface. Compact in layers of 2–3 centimeters until the desired thickness (usually 8–10 centimeters) is achieved.
Ensure a slight slope (about 1%) to allow water to flow away naturally. This prevents puddles or waterlogging on the turf surface.
A geotextile fabric can be laid between the soil and base layer to prevent weed growth and improve long-term stability.
| Application Type | Recommended Base Depth |
|---|---|
| Residential Lawn | 8–10 cm |
| Commercial Landscape | 10–15 cm |
| Playground or Sports Field | 15–20 cm |
| Rooftop or Balcony | 3–5 cm (light base layer) |
The heavier the expected foot traffic, the thicker the base should be to ensure longevity and consistent performance.
Effective drainage is critical for artificial turf. Always verify that the base allows water to pass through easily without pooling. Incorporating a perforated pipe system or additional gravel beneath the compacted base can further enhance drainage in large installations.
Before laying the turf, check that the base is smooth and well-compacted. Any irregularities can become visible once the turf is installed. A thin layer of sharp sand or fine granite dust may be used to fine-tune the level, but it should not exceed 1 centimeter in depth.
The best base for artificial turf depends on the environment and intended use, but crushed stone or decomposed granite are generally the most reliable choices for durability, drainage, and stability. Proper preparation—excavation, compaction, grading, and layering—is as important as the material itself. With a solid foundation, artificial turf can remain beautiful, safe, and functional for many years with minimal maintenance.
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