Artificial Grass Maintenance: Slipperiness, The Right Underlay, and Mould Concerns

Artificial grass is becoming more popular thanks to its easy upkeep and year-long lush, green appearance. As its use grows across various weather conditions, many wonder how it fares in wet weather. This blog explores how artificial grass maintenance can help your lawn perform in the rain, focusing on issues like slipperiness, the need for a solid underlay, and mould prevention.

Is Artificial Grass Slippery in the Rain?

A key concern is whether artificial grass gets slippery when it’s wet. The answer largely depends on the turf’s quality. Top-quality artificial grass comes with drainage systems and anti-slip surfaces. The synthetic blades provide some grip, even in wet conditions. However, lower-cost options may not be as safe and can become slippery when damp.

Using a Proper Underlay?

When it comes to installing artificial grass, using a proper underlay is crucial for ensuring a long-lasting and visually appealing outcome. At Artificial Grass of Derbyshire, the preferred underlay material is 6mm dust granite chippings, which offer several advantages:

1. Firm and Unobtrusive Sub-Base: The chippings compact well, forming a solid foundation that doesn’t interfere with the grass’s appearance or functionality.
2. Free Draining: Despite being compacted, this material allows for effective drainage, preventing water accumulation.
3. Reduced Odour: In hot, dry conditions, granite chippings are less likely to emit unpleasant odours, such as those from dog urine, compared to other materials like sand.
4. Stability: Granite chippings provide a stable base, crucial for properly laying the artificial lawn.

In certain situations, however, different underlays may be preferable. For example, if a lawn area is prone to becoming boggy, an additional layer of “MOT type 1” roadstone might be recommended. This is compacted and overlaid with compacted granite chippings to ensure proper drainage and stability.

Finally, a weed suppressor membrane is installed before laying the new artificial lawn. This layering ensures an optimal outcome, preventing common issues like poor drainage, unnatural appearance, and reduced durability.

Using alternative materials like rubber or different types of infill can also assist with drainage and stability, but granite chippings are often superior to sand and other common underlay materials. This superiority lies in their ability to provide a stable, odour-resistant, and well-draining foundation.

Take the Hassle-Out – Get a Professional In!

Hiring a professional for the installation of artificial grass is advised. Professionals are knowledgeable about the best materials and techniques to ensure the artificial grass looks natural, is safe to walk on, and lasts for a long time. They possess the necessary experience and tools to ensure a proper installation, maximising both the durability and aesthetic appeal of your artificial grass.

Can Artificial Grass Develop Mould

Concerns about mould and mildew are common with artificial grass, particularly in damp weather. Artificial grass is generally resistant to mould, as its synthetic materials don’t support mould growth. Proper installation with good drainage is key to avoiding water build-up and mould.

However, leaving organic debris like leaves or food on the grass, especially when wet, can lead to mould. Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to avoid this. We also never recommend top dressing the surface of an artificial lawn with dried kiln sand, as this will certainly encourage the establishing / growth of moss and weeds.

Maintaining Artificial Grass in Wet Weather

To keep your artificial grass in top condition during rainy weather, follow these tips:

1. Regular Cleaning: Clear debris and rinse the grass to stop organic matter build-up.
2. Good Drainage: Make sure your artificial grass has effective drainage to prevent water pooling.
3. Frequent Brushing: Brush the grass to keep its natural look and stop the blades from matting.

Conclusion

Artificial grass is a brilliant choice, especially if you live in a rainy place. But remember a few important things: First, choose high-quality grass. Second, it needs to be installed properly and taken care of. One of the best things about artificial grass is that it’s not slippery and doesn’t get mouldy easily. Plus, with the right base, it’s great at draining water. To keep it looking good and safe, you’ll need to look after it regularly, no matter the weather.

Having your artificial lawn installed by a professional is really helpful. The experts at Artificial Grass of Derbyshire know exactly how to install it the right way. This means your artificial grass will be ready to handle lots of rain and will last for ages. We can also offer advice on how to take care of your lawn, so it stays looking great for longer. You can get a quote from us today and choose from a wide range of different grasses to suit your needs.