Why Choose Artificial Grass?
In New Zealand, about 30% of water usage goes towards outdoor activities, with more than half of that being used for lawns and gardens. This amounts to roughly 100 million litres of water per day being used for landscape irrigation. Fertilizers and chemicals used on lawns can have a negative impact on the environment and pollute groundwater, while gas and electric-powered lawn tools create additional pollution.
Artificial grass has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people are looking for ways to save water, time, and money. In New Zealand, the artificial grass installation industry is worth billions of dollars, and for good reason. Artificial grass not only looks beautiful, but it’s also environmentally friendly and requires minimal maintenance.
But before you can enjoy the benefits of artificial grass, you’ll need to choose the right type of sub-base for your installation. The sub-base is the area underneath the artificial turf, and it’s essential for ensuring that your artificial grass looks its best. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the three main types of sub-base for artificial grass in New Zealand, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right one for your needs.
Crushed Miscellaneous Base (CMB)
CMB is made from recycled concrete or asphalt, mixed with a sand and gravel mixture. It’s commonly used for landscaping purposes, and it’s easily compacted and less expensive than other options. However, it’s not as smooth as some of the other sub-base options, which can affect the overall appearance of your artificial grass.
Class II Road Base
This sub-base is a more expensive version of CMB, with stricter testing requirements. It’s not as commonly used as CMB, and most people don’t need this type of base for their artificial grass installations.
Decomposed Granite (DG)
Decomposed granite is a type of rock that has weathered until it breaks down into small pieces of weak rock. It also contains a mix of gravel, sand, and silt-sized particles of clay. DG is more expensive than CMB, but it creates a smoother finish. If you’re creating a putting green with artificial turf, DG is a good option as it’s more permeable than CMB.
In conclusion
when choosing a sub-base for your artificial turf, consider your specific needs and budget. CMB is the most commonly used type of sub-base, as it’s easily compacted and less expensive than the other options. However, if you’re looking for a smoother finish, DG may be a better choice. Regardless of which sub-base you choose, it’s important to make sure it’s installed correctly to ensure your artificial grass lasts for many years to come.
