Can You Walk on Artificial Grass Straight Away? How Long Does It Take for Artificial Grass to Settle?

Artificial grass has gained popularity for its low maintenance, durability, and ability to transform outdoor spaces into lush, green areas. But after installation, many people wonder whether they can walk on artificial grass immediately and how long it takes for the grass to fully settle into place. This blog post will answer these questions and provide valuable insights into ensuring your artificial grass installation stands the test of time.

Can You Walk on Artificial Grass Immediately After Installation?

The short answer is: it depends. While artificial grass is designed to be robust and durable, allowing it to withstand foot traffic, the specific answer depends on the installation process and the type of sub-base used.

After Installation

Right after installation, the artificial grass might still be settling into place. For example, the infill (sand or rubber granules) may need time to distribute evenly across the grass fibers, and the base layer beneath the turf needs to fully compact to provide a solid foundation. While you can walk on it carefully, it’s advisable to wait a short period before heavy use.

Sub-base Settling

If you had an artificial lawn installed over a well-compacted sub-base like crushed stone or decomposed granite, you may walk on the grass immediately. These materials provide a solid foundation that doesn't shift easily. However, if the base is made from softer materials or wasn't compacted properly, it may shift, causing unevenness in your lawn.

Wait for Full Stabilization

If you can, try to avoid using the lawn for the first 24-72 hours after installation. This gives the artificial turf time to settle properly, ensuring a more secure and long-lasting installation. This initial wait can also help to prevent any lumps or uneven areas from forming, which could occur if the grass is walked on too soon.

How long does it take for Artificial Grass to settle?

Artificial grass typically takes a few days to several weeks to fully settle, depending on several factors, including the climate, quality of installation, and the materials used in the sub-base. Here’s a breakdown of what happens during the settling process:

1. Day 1-3: Initial Settling

In the first few days after installation, the artificial grass starts to settle into its new position. The infill material will begin to distribute evenly across the surface, which helps to support the grass blades and prevent matting. During this time, you might notice that the turf feels slightly uneven underfoot, but this is normal and will resolve as the infill continues to settle.

2. Week 1-2: Base Compression

By the end of the first week, the sub-base will have started to compress under the weight of the artificial grass and any foot traffic. If the base was installed correctly, the surface should now feel firm and stable. At this stage, you can use your artificial lawn normally without worrying about damaging it.

3. Weeks 2-4: Final Settling

In the final weeks of the settling period, the artificial grass will fully adjust to its environment. The infill will be evenly distributed, and the grass blades will stand upright, creating a natural-looking lawn. You may want to brush the grass lightly during this time to help the fibers stand up and to evenly spread the infill material.

Factors that affect settling time

Several factors influence how long it takes for artificial grass to settle. These include:

● Climate - In warmer weather, artificial grass tends to settle faster, as the heat helps the infill material and the turf fibers to expand and adjust more quickly.

● Sub-base Material - A well-compacted sub-base made from crushed stone or similar materials will allow the grass to settle faster than one made from softer materials.

● Traffic - If your lawn experiences heavy foot traffic or is used for activities such as sports or playgrounds, it may take a little longer for the grass to fully settle.

Common FAQs About Walking on Artificial Grass

1. Can walking on Artificial Grass damage it?

No, artificial grass is designed to withstand foot traffic without damage. The synthetic fibers used in high-quality turf are made to be durable, so walking on it won’t cause wear and tear. However, avoiding heavy use in the first few days after installation helps prevent any issues with settling or unevenness.

2. Can I place furniture on Artificial Grass right away?

It's best to wait for at least 24-48 hours before placing heavy furniture on artificial grass. This allows the grass to settle and the infill to distribute evenly. After this period, you can place furniture on the grass without risk of damaging it.

3. What should I do if my grass looks uneven after installation?

If your artificial grass appears uneven after installation, it may be due to uneven distribution of infill or incomplete compaction of the sub-base. Brushing the grass with a stiff broom can help distribute the infill evenly, and any lumps or bumps should disappear over time as the grass settles.

4. Will Artificial Grass go back to normal after being walked on?

Yes, the fibers of artificial grass are designed to be resilient and should spring back after being walked on. If you notice the blades lying flat, brushing the grass lightly with a broom can help restore their upright position. The infill material also helps support the grass fibers, so it’s important to ensure that it is evenly distributed.

How to Help Artificial Grass Settle Faster

If you want to speed up the settling process, there are a few things you can do:

● Brush the Grass Regularly - Brushing the grass lightly every few days can help to redistribute the infill material and keep the grass blades standing upright.

● Water the Turf - Lightly watering the artificial grass can help to weigh down the infill and encourage it to settle more quickly. This can be especially helpful in warm climates where the grass may dry out and settle unevenly.

● Avoid Heavy Traffic Initially - Try to keep foot traffic to a minimum in the first few days after installation to prevent uneven settling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while you can walk on artificial grass soon after installation, it’s best to wait 24-72 hours to allow the turf to fully settle. This will help to ensure an even surface and prolong the life of your artificial lawn. Artificial grass typically takes a few weeks to fully settle, depending on the quality of installation, the sub-base used, and the climate.

Once your artificial grass is fully settled, you can walk, play, and even place furniture on it without worrying about damage. For any concerns about installation, settling, or maintenance, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Turfsformer to ensure your lawn looks great and functions well for years to come!