Are you worried about whether your new artificial grass will be fully permeable?

We’ve all heard the horror stories about what happens when artificial grass isn’t installed correctly. It doesn’t last, can start to sink in your garden, and will generally not solve your drainage issues. Unfortunately, when this happens, we often get called in to fix it – so we’ve seen quite a few cases!

However, the good news is that with a reputable installer, you shouldn’t have to worry. Below, I’m going to tell you what makes artificial grass fully permeable (which means it will always drain water, not puddle) when installed correctly.

Why quality artificial grass is fully permeable

Water permeability is one of the main advantages of installing artificial grass. In most cases, it actually tends to drain more efficiently than natural grass – it dries out quicker, too. It’s actually one of the most effective drainage solutions around.

This is because small perforated holes are in the backing of the product, allowing water to drain through the sub-soil. The sub-base that most reputable companies install consists of crushed aggregates. This is a highly absorbent material allowing it to store excess water and let it drain through slowly, avoiding any build-up of water.

The drainage base below the levelling layer is incredibly important. Especially when it rains heavily, the compacted inches of material provide a solid yet permeable sub-base which can accept the water and allow it to filter down into the sub-soil.

The sand infill that we use to weigh down the grass after installation also helps to ensure proper drainage as it creates a barrier and protects the turf during activity.

A client’s garden before getting in touch with us about their drainage issues

How to ensure artificial grass will be permeable

Although most high quality grass should be fully permeable, it really depends how it’s manufactured and installed. Not all synthetic turf is manufactured the same way, and not all artificial lawn installations are completed to the same standard.

To ensure your artificial grass will be fully permeable, you should always choose a reputable, knowledgeable artificial grass installer who will assist you in selecting the right product for you and your garden. Do your research, and look at installation procedures outlined on company websites. Don’t forget to check testimonials and reviews!

It’s also wise to ask the installer about their process (including excavation) before installation starts.  Ensuring you get all the right information will help set your mind at ease. A written quotation with all the work and costings detailed and broken down is a must. You’ll also want to check you’re getting a good guarantee of the product and workmanship.

Finally, if you can, check the company’s products. They should have perforated holes in the backing of their synthetic grass. You should also ask about the depth of excavation required to combat your drainage issues – this should all help to reassure you that you’re choosing a reputable installer.

The client’s garden after fitting artificial grass

How to tell if your artificial grass has been fitted properly

If your artificial grass has been fitted properly, you should be able to see straight away that your garden is level. It should have no lumps in the grass, and no sinking areas. You’ll also be able to tell after rainfall whether water is lying and not draining. If water fails to drain, it means the correct base has not been installed. In this case, you may start to suffer from recurring drainage problems.

We visited a customer recently whose lawn was quite uneven and dipping in areas, causing puddling.  They really needed a full excavation to ensure the area was level, before installing a drainage layer beneath the levelling layer. We explained about the porous backing and sub-base, and they were really happy with the look and feel of the grass.

Our customer also had dogs, and we advised that the artificial grass would be a great solution that would allow their pets to enjoy the garden more. They have never looked back, and their garden is now nice and even, with drainage woes a thing of the past.

TIP: Although high quality artificial grass is fully permeable, it will also drain pet urine away and won’t stain. However, you will still need to hose it down after use to avoid any lingering smell.

Conclusion

I hope you’ve found this blog helpful. Remember, thanks to the full excavation process and fully porous sub-base, most good quality artificial grass should be fully permeable. However, I’d always recommend thoroughly researching a company before agreeing to have any work carried out. Online reviews and testimonials are a must!

You should also ask them about their installation process, and the kind of guarantee you can expect.

Want to know more about artificial grass as a drainage solution? Just leave a comment below – I’m always happy to help with free advice!