What is Turf Underlay and Do You Need It?

24 Jun What is Turf Underlay and Do You Need It?

Installing new turf has become a popular landscaping solution for homeowners, schools, sports facilities, and commercial properties. However, achieving a professional-looking and long-lasting turf involves more than simply laying a patch of grass. One of the most important yet often overlooked components is turf underlay.

In this guide, we’ll explain what turf underlay is, explore the different types available, and help you determine whether it’s the right addition for your artificial grass project.

What is Turf Underlay?

Turf underlay is a soil mixture used as a cushioning layer beneath new turf to provide additional comfort, support, and shock absorption. The underlay usually sits between the prepared base and the turf surface. Some of its common uses include:

• Levelling of uneven grounds
• Encouraging proper drainage
• Promoting the regrowth of old turf
• Providing support for roots

Turf underlay for natural turf is usually made of soil, sifted sand, or composted organic material. Meanwhile, the underlay for artificial grass can be made of crushed gravel, sand, foam, or rubber.

While not always essential for every installation, turf underlay can significantly enhance the performance and feel of your grass. It gives the surface a softer underfoot, making it more comfortable to walk on and safer to fall onto.

You can commonly find turf underlay being used in playgrounds, sports fields, rooftop gardens, pet areas, and residential lawns where comfort and safety are priorities.

Types of Turf Underlay

There are several types of turf underlay available, each designed for specific applications and performance requirements.

Sandy Loam Underlay (80/20 Mix)

Sandy loam underlay, typically an 80% sand and 20% organic matter blend, is one of the most reliable choices for turf installation. It provides the ideal balance between drainage and moisture retention, helping roots establish quickly without becoming waterlogged.

Organic Topsoil

Organic topsoil is rich in nutrients and natural matter, making it highly effective for nourishing turf during its early stages. However, it typically has higher clay content, which can affect drainage if not properly managed.

Recycled Turf Underlay

Recycled turf underlay is a budget-friendly option, often used as fill material rather than as a high-performance base. It’s made from repurposed organic matter, making it a practical choice for projects where cost savings are a priority.

Foam Underlay

Foam padding is a specialised underlay made of recycled foam. Commonly used in artificial turfs, play areas, and rooftops, it adds cushioning and enhances comfort, making it ideal for areas where safety and usability are priorities.

Why You Should Use Turf Underlay

Although natural or artificial turf can be installed without any underlay in some situations, adding it can provide several valuable benefits.

• Enhanced Comfort: Turf underlay creates a softer, more natural feel underfoot. This makes walking, playing, and relaxing on artificial grass more comfortable compared to installations without cushioning.

• Improved Safety: One advantage of an underlay is its ability to absorb impact. This can help reduce the risk of injuries from slips, trips, and falls, making it particularly beneficial for children’s play areas and sports surfaces.

• Better Turf Performance: An underlay can help maintain a more level surface and reduce wear on the turf backing. This may contribute to a longer lifespan for your artificial grass investment.

• Increased Drainage Efficiency: Certain underlay products are designed to improve water movement through the turf system, helping to prevent pooling and ensuring the surface remains usable after rainfall.

• Added Value for High-Traffic Areas: Areas that experience frequent use can benefit from the extra resilience provided by underlay, helping maintain both appearance and performance over time.

How to Apply Turf Underlay

A well-prepared base supports strong root growth, improves drainage, and helps your turf establish quickly. Follow these simple steps to ensure a professional result.

Step 1: Start by clearing the site of any existing grass, weeds, rocks, and debris. This gives you a clean base to work with and prevents uneven growth later on.

Step 2: Before adding underlay, establish the correct height for your finished lawn. Use a rake and levelling tools to ensure a consistent, even base across the entire area.

Step 3: Apply your chosen underlay evenly across the prepared surface. The depth will depend on your project, but typically ranges between 50 and 100 mm.

Step 4: Once the underlay is in place, it’s important to create a firm, even surface. You can use a rake or lawn roller to even out the ground and achieve a firm underfoot across multiple angles.

Step 5: With your underlay prepared, you’re ready to lay your turf immediately. A properly installed base ensures faster turf establishment, improved drainage, and an overall smoother finish.

Premium Turf Laying Services With Seed and Turf

Choosing the right turf underlay is only one part of creating a durable and attractive lawn. Professional installation ensures that every layer, from the base preparation to the final turf finish, is completed to the highest standard.

At Seed and Turf, we provide premium turf-laying services tailored for residential and commercial applications. Our experienced team can recommend the most suitable options for your specific needs, ensuring a comfortable, long-lasting, and visually appealing result.

Contact us today to learn more about our professional turf installation services and discover how the right one can enhance your artificial grass investment.