Anyone with young children knows how quickly a lawn turns to mud. A patch beneath a swing or a trampoline gets worn bare within weeks, and the garden becomes out of bounds after rain. Artificial grass for play areas is one answer to that, giving children a surface they can use in almost any weather without trailing dirt into the house.
It is not simply a case of rolling out a carpet, though. Safety, drainage and the base underneath all matter more when children are involved. This guide explains how artificial grass for children's gardens is planned and fitted, where it helps, and where you need to think carefully, for families in Worcester and nearby areas of Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
The surface works well in the heavily used areas of a family garden: around swings and slides, under a climbing frame, beside a sandpit, or as a kickabout strip along one side. It stays green and level through winter, so the children are not tied to dry weather. It is also handy where shade from a house or tall hedge stops a natural lawn growing properly. Some families lay it across the whole garden, others use it only where wear is worst and keep a small natural lawn for the rest. Both approaches work. The right balance depends on how the garden is used, how big it is, and how you feel about the look of synthetic turf.
For a children's area, look for a grass with a dense, soft pile that feels comfortable to sit and roll on, and with a backing that allows water through. Longer, thicker pile feels cushioned, while very short, stiff pile can feel harsh and cause friction burns on bare knees in summer. Ask for a sample and run your hand and knees across it, which is more telling than a brochure. Check what the manufacturer says about the product being suitable for domestic family use, and ask whether it has been tested for safety. We would rather you chose something durable and gentle than whatever is lowest priced on the shelf.
Artificial grass alone does not make a fall safe. For equipment where children can drop from height, a shock-absorbing underlay should be fitted below the grass to cushion impact. These layers vary in thickness, and the right one depends on the height from which a child might fall. Manufacturers of play equipment normally state the surface needed, so check the instructions before you buy. This is also where it pays to be honest about what you want. A trampoline with a safety net needs a flat, firm base, while a tall climbing frame needs a deeper cushion. We can fit an underlay that suits your equipment, but we will always ask what is going on top first.
Beneath the grass sits a compacted stone base, usually with a thin layer of sharp sand on top, laid to a gentle fall so water drains away. On heavy clay soils, which are common around much of Worcestershire, the sub-base may need to be deeper, and in places it needs a soakaway or a connection to an existing drain. A poor base leads to puddles, ripples and, eventually, mould. Keep the surface clean by brushing off leaves, rinsing spills and hosing down occasionally. Pet waste, food and drink spills should be cleaned promptly, and a deodorising rinse now and again keeps things fresh. Silica or rubber infill is not always necessary, so ask whether it is required for your product.
The size of the area is the first factor, but the preparation often decides the final figure. Removing an old lawn, taking away turf and soil, digging out to the required depth and bringing in stone all take time and need a skip or a tipper. Access matters, because everything has to be carried to the garden. Adding a shock-absorbing underlay increases both material and labour. The grade of grass, the quality of edging and the number of cuts around curves and play equipment make a difference. When you compare quotes, ask what depth of base is included and whether the underlay is specified.
If you are planning a play space, contact SPR Trees and Landscapes in Worcester through the buttons on this page. Tell us which equipment is going in, roughly how big the area is, and how the garden drains at present. We will visit, measure up and talk through the surface, the base and the edges. The quotation is free, and we will explain the options plainly, including when a smaller area of artificial grass makes more sense than covering everything.
For artificial grass for play areas in Worcester or the surrounding towns, call or WhatsApp 07542 451291, or use the form below and tell us about the job.
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Good quality products made for domestic use are suitable for children. For anything where a child could fall from height, you also need a shock-absorbing underlay. Always check the play equipment instructions and ask for product information before you choose.
It can become warm in strong sun, particularly darker or very short pile. Lighter shades and a good pile help. Wetting the surface cools it quickly, and it is worth testing a sample in direct sunlight before you decide.
Yes, as long as the base is flat and firm, and the trampoline legs do not dig into the surface. Some people place protective pads under the feet. A level sub-base matters more here than the grass itself.
Tell us about the job and we will be in touch, usually the same day.
Prefer to talk? Call 07542 451291 or WhatsApp us.
