This is a common question we get here at Santa Rosa Artificial Grass and it’s a great one. First, the answer is yes. You certainly can install synthetic grass on top of the real thing. However, no reputable artificial grass installer in Santa Rosa will recommend or approve this method. Let’s take a closer look.
Why Install Artificial Grass on Top of Real Turf
Installing artificial turf is a serious investment. As a result, some Santa Rosa, California homeowners go DIY in order to save cash. In many cases, however, DIY installers take a lot of ill-advised shortcuts just to shave a few bucks or hours off the installation.
One of these is trying to install synthetic grass in Santa Rosa directly on top of their natural lawn. Here are a couple of reasonings we’ve heard:
- No need to spend time or effort eliminating existing grass lawns
- They don’t want to spend time or money preparing the ground before installing artificial grass
On the surface, it does seem like a great way to cut down on the expenses and the work. Pretty soon, however, you’ll start noticing massive issues with your DIY artificial grass.
What can happen if you install synthetic turf on top of natural grass?
Nothing good, unfortunately. Take a look at what can happen afterwards:
- This shortcut usually means there’s no good weed barrier under your synthetic turf. As a result, there is a much greater chance of grass or weeds growing up through the artificial grass backing. Say goodbye to a weed-free lawn or in worst cases, total curb appeal.
- Not preparing the ground is a sure formula for drain problems in synthetic turf installations.
- Most or all of your existing natural lawn is going to die under synthetic turf. However, some stubborn growth will still try to make it through the backing, especially durable weeds. Expect bumps, unchecked weed growth and more tripping hazards on your new artificial lawn.
- Without proper ground preparation – of which levelling is a key part – you’ll probably end up with an uneven lawn. Even the slightest slope can cause your yard to flood and form puddles that won’t drain.
- Installing synthetic turf over an existing live lawn skips several critical steps connected to the security and durability of the turf system. For instance, an artificial grass installer in Santa Rosa will carefully grade and level the ground. In addition, professionals will also compact the sub-base and use the correct base products. On top of these, they will ensure proper and efficient drainage that won’t trap moisture or foul odors. Lastly, they will also check the installation for any issues and correct all of them before finishing up the project.
- Don’t expect your new synthetic lawn to last long. For one, installing it on top of real grass will probably – and most likely – break whatever warranty protects the product. Next, problems will eventually crop up. Aside from being expensive and stressful to fix, there’s also a chance that your entire installation can fail.
Installing Synthetic Turf Over Natural Grass: Here’s the Truth
Again, to answer the question, “Can you install synthetic grass over natural grass?” Our answer is yes, nothing can stop you from doing so.
However, this is the correct question to ask: “Should you install synthetic grass over natural grass?”
No, never and you should stay away from artificial grass companies near me that recommend it. If you want the ultimate synthetic grass experience, the best way to achieve it is with the help of an artificial turf installer in Santa Rosa.
With Santa Rosa Artificial Grass, you’re guaranteed a gorgeous, low-maintenance synthetic lawn that you will enjoy for many years to come. All of our installation and turf products also come with some of the best warranties in Santa Rosa, CA. As a result, your investment is safe even after we leave your home.
Finally, call us at 408-723-4954 or send us a message here for questions or to get started. We look forward to our conversation!
