Why Ground Preparation Matters as Much as the Grass
A good artificial lawn starts underneath the grass. The condition of the existing ground, the stability of the base, levels and drainage all affect the finished result. After more than 20 years installing artificial grass on the Costa Blanca, we know how different properties can be — from established gardens and gravel plots to uneven ground, rubble and existing hard surfaces. We assess the site first and prepare it according to what the installation actually requires.
What Can Go Wrong When Preparation Isn't Right?
We have seen artificial grass installations where the product itself was perfectly good, but the preparation underneath it was not. An unstable base, poor levels, inadequate drainage or rubble left beneath the surface can all affect how the finished lawn looks and performs. Problems may show themselves as uneven areas, movement, poor drainage or an uncomfortable surface underfoot. The Costa Blanca presents its own challenges. We've worked on properties with rubble-filled ground, difficult access, uneven terrain and existing surfaces that require a completely different approach.
This is why we don't treat ground preparation as a standard formula. We look at the site and decide what it actually needs.
- Poor drainage causes waterlogging, subsidence and grass failure
- An unstable base leads to uneven surfaces and premature wear
- Incorrect depth results in a surface that feels wrong underfoot
- Poor levelling creates an unprofessional, uneven appearance
- Rubble and debris beneath the surface cause lumps and movement
One of the types of ground we encounter on the Costa Blanca — rubble, uneven levels and difficult existing surfaces can all require careful preparation before artificial grass is installed.
Our Ground Preparation Process
Every property is different, so we don't use a one-size-fits-all approach. We assess the existing ground, drainage, levels and intended use of the area before deciding what preparation is actually required. Some gardens need substantial excavation and a new base, while suitable terraces and other hard surfaces may need very little preparation.
Site Assessment
We start by looking at what is already there — the existing surface, ground conditions, levels, drainage, access and any particular challenges the property presents. This allows us to plan the right preparation before work begins.
Excavation & Clearance
Where required, we remove unsuitable soil, existing grass, rubble or other material to create the space needed for the new installation. The amount of excavation depends entirely on the existing ground and the finished level required.
Drainage
Good drainage needs to be considered before the grass goes down. We assess how water currently leaves the area and, where necessary, create or improve the drainage required for the installation. This can be straightforward on some sites and more involved on others.
Base Preparation
Where a new base is required, we install the appropriate aggregate layers and compact them properly to create a stable foundation for the grass. The depth and construction of the base depend on the site, the existing ground and the intended use of the area.
Levelling & Finishing
The prepared surface is carefully levelled and checked so the finished grass has a smooth, even foundation. Getting this stage right helps avoid unwanted bumps, hollows and changes in level showing through the finished lawn.
Edging
Secure edges are an important part of a good installation. We install the appropriate edging or fixing detail around the perimeter to give the grass a clean, defined finish and keep it securely in position.
Weed Control
Where the site and installation require it, an appropriate weed membrane can be incorporated into the preparation. It isn't something we automatically use on every project. The existing ground and the construction of the installation determine whether it is appropriate.
Final Preparation Check
Before the artificial grass is installed, we check the prepared area for levels, stability, drainage and overall condition. Only once we're satisfied that the foundation is ready do we move on to laying the grass.
Not Every Project Needs Full Ground Preparation
This is particularly important on the Costa Blanca, where we work on everything from soil and gravel gardens to terraces, concrete areas and other existing hard surfaces. If an existing terrace or hard surface is sound, stable, suitably level and has adequate drainage, there may be no reason to remove it or build a completely new base. In these situations, we can often install the artificial grass directly over the existing surface. Assessing what you already have can save unnecessary work, time and cost while still giving the grass the foundation it needs.