Specialized Base for Artificial Turf: Importance and Benefits
The specialized base is an essential component in the installation of artificial turf, as it ensures the durability, stability and functionality of the turf over time. This support layer provides a suitable surface for the synthetic turf, ensuring that it remains firm, well-drained and free of imperfections that can affect its appearance or performance. A specialized underlayment is key to achieving a perfect finish and prolonging the life of the artificial turf.
What is a specialized artificial turf base?
A specialized base for artificial turf is an underlying layer composed of materials such as sand, gravel or a specific mix of aggregates, designed to provide a solid and uniform support for the installation of synthetic turf. This base serves as a platform on which the turf is laid, allowing for proper water drainage, providing stability and preventing the formation of lumps or deformations that can ruin the visual finish of the turf.
Benefits of a specialized artificial turf base
- Better drainage: One of the main benefits of a specialized base is its ability to ensure efficient water drainage. Artificial turf must allow water to flow properly to avoid moisture buildup and prevent ponding, which could damage both the turf and the underlying surface. Specialized underlayment facilitates fast and effective drainage.
- Increased stability: A well-prepared base ensures that synthetic turf remains stable, preventing it from slipping or moving over time. This is especially important in high-traffic areas or on sloping surfaces, where the turf can become unsettled without a proper base.
- Durability and resistance: The specialized base protects the artificial turf from deterioration caused by constant wear and tear, traffic or weather. Proper installation of a solid, well-leveled base increases the durability of the turf, prolonging its life and maintaining its appearance for many years.
- Deformation prevention: Without proper underlayment, artificial turf can experience sinking, bulging or uneven areas, affecting its appearance and functionality. A specialized underlayment helps prevent these problems by providing a level, resilient surface.
- Optimal comfort conditions: A quality base also contributes to the comfort of walking on artificial turf. In addition to ensuring a firm surface, the specialized base allows the turf to stay in place, ensuring a more comfortable and safe usage experience.
Types of specialized artificial turf underlayment
There are several types of specialized underlayments that can be used depending on the type of installation and the intended use of the artificial turf:
- Sand base: Ideal for residential installations or small areas of artificial turf. Provides good drainage and is easy to work with.
- Gravel base: More suitable for installations on large surfaces or in areas with heavy traffic, as it provides greater stability and drainage.
- Agglomerate or stabilized base: Combination of sand, gravel and other materials that offer an even more resistant and durable base. It is perfect for installations in sports fields or areas with heavy use.
How is a specialized artificial turf base installed?
The installation of a specialized artificial turf underlayment follows a few key steps to ensure a perfect finish:
- Soil preparation: The soil should be leveled and any obstructions, such as roots or large stones, removed.
- Placing a drainage layer: Depending on the type of base, a layer of gravel or sand is placed to ensure good drainage.
- Compaction: The base should be compacted to ensure stability and firmness.
- Leveling: It is important that the base is level to avoid lumps or unevenness in the artificial turf.
- Laying the turf: Once the base is prepared, you can proceed to install the artificial turf, making sure that it is well adjusted and stable.
When is a specialized base necessary?
A specialized base is essential in almost all artificial turf installations. It is especially recommended in:
- Intensive use areas: Areas such as high traffic gardens, sports fields or recreational areas that require a resistant and durable base.
- Irregular or sloping terrain: Where a level base is required to avoid deformation and ensure correct installation.
- Surfaces with drainage problems: If the soil has difficulty draining water properly, a specialized base will ensure that the water is removed efficiently and does not cause damage to the turf.
Conclusion
Specialized underlayment is crucial to ensure the quality, durability and functionality of artificial turf. By providing proper support, improving drainage and preventing deformation, specialized underlayment ensures that your artificial turf will remain in excellent condition for many years to come. If you are installing artificial turf in your garden, sports field or recreational area, don’t forget the importance of having the right base to get the best results.
