How to install grass grids? Comprehensive installation guide

Stella Green grass grid – a simple way to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space.

The grass grid (gravel grid)  is a practical solution that allows the surface to be hardened while retaining its natural character. Recyclates (polyethylene) are used in the production of Stella Green grids. This material is produced by processing carefully selected post-industrial waste.

Stella Green grass grid are ideal for medium and heavy-duty areas: car parks, driveways, service and fire roads, open warehouses, golf courses, but also recreational areas with light loads: plots, lawns, greenhouses or the driveway to the house.

The process of installing a grass grid is simple and consists of a few key steps. In this article, we will show you step-by-step how to properly prepare the ground, lay the trellis and fill it with material to achieve a lasting and aesthetically pleasing result.

Step 1: Site preparation

First, the installation area should be measured and marked out to determine the amount of materials needed. Preparation includes determining the number of grids, the amount of aggregate to be filled and the geotextile to provide additional stabilisation and prevent weed overgrowth. Careful planning will help you avoid material shortages during installation.

The assessment of the appropriate type of substructure for a particular site is best left to a specialist. The choice depends primarily on the characteristics of the soil and the intended use of the pavement. A key step in this process is to carry out an analysis of the native soil to be reinforced.

Step 2: Creation of the substructure

Once you have determined the area you want the trellis to cover – remove the soil layer, preparing the area for the construction layers. It is a good idea to enclose the area with kerbs for stability, and a slight slope of 1-2% will ensure proper water drainage. The designated space should then be thoroughly cleaned. Removal of vegetation, stones and other obstacles is necessary to ensure an even and stable surface.

Step 3: Laying the geotextile

The prepared (excavated) site can be covered with a geotextile before the base course is laid. It is used to separate construction layers, such as subsoil and aggregate, preventing the materials from mixing. In addition, it improves drainage, allowing water to flow freely while reducing overgrowth of weeds and other plants.

Step 4: Laying the base layer

One of the most important stages, the laying of the base course. It should be permeable and consist of a natural aggregate mixture with a 0-31.5 fraction, which can be easily compacted mechanically. The base layer, separated from the other layers by a geotextile, must maintain full drainage. The thickness of this layer depends on the intended use of the land – approximately 20 cm for private use and a minimum of 40 cm for heavy public traffic. Importantly, the aggregate must always be properly compacted. See our YouTube video in which we show this step in practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eE6nojPtY7w

Step 5: Re-laying the geotextile

When installing a grille, it is particularly recommended to lay a geotextile between the base layer and the sand levelling layer.

Step 6: Laying the levelling layer

In this step, the sand levelling layer should be spread evenly and thoroughly compacted to ensure adequate bearing capacity and stability of the structure. See our YouTube video in which we show this step in practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D95ljYV50cc 

Step 7: Installation of the grass grid

The grass grid should be staggered (on the brickwork) to allow the surface to be strengthened and the bonds to last in any direction of use. At the edge of the site, the grass grid can be cut with an angle grinder or handsaw to match the kerb or edging. Depending on the model, the grille is connected in different ways – with hooks (in SG1 and SG3 models) or with ‘click’ catches (in SG4 and SG6 models).

Step 8: Filling in the grids – grass or aggregate

• If grass is chosen, the grass grid is filled with lawn soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5, which can be mixed with up to 30% sand. The soil should be applied so that it reaches about 1 cm above the surface of the trellis – taking into account the natural settlement of the soil. The grass needs about 6 weeks to fully root into the grid structure and requires regular reseeding, watering, fertilising and mowing like any normal lawn.
• The grass grid can also be filled with decorative or natural aggregate, which is chosen according to the purpose of the pavement. This can be gravel, granules or a grass mixture. An aggregate with a maximum diameter of 20 mm is recommended. It should be thoroughly compacted mechanically up to the level of the surface of the grid, filling the entire structure. This process should be repeated to achieve maximum filling.Zobacz nasz film na YouTube, w którym pokazujemy ten etap w praktyce: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvIVMhiEZOQ

Step 9: Finishing

At the end of installation, the entire surface should be carefully checked for level and stability. Any excess fill material should be removed to maintain the aesthetics and functionality of the pavement. Then, using a compactor, the structure is consolidated, ensuring its durability. Finally, the work area should be cleaned, removing any residual materials so that the surface is ready for use.

Potential problems and how to solve them

Problems during construction

Unevenness of the substrate – how do I level the surface? If the substrate is uneven, it is crucial to carefully level the surface of the base and levelling layer with a batten or spirit level to ensure the stability of the entire structure.

Too few materials – is it worth planning for a stockpile? Not having enough materials can cause delays and additional costs during construction. In order to avoid this, it is crucial to accurately calculate the requirements at the planning stage. It is always advisable to include a reserve of 10-15% to cover losses due to possible installation errors or the need to trim materials.

Shifting of grass grids during installation – how to stabilise them effectively? Grille displacement during installation can be effectively reduced by following the manufacturer’s recommendations and using appropriate stabilisation techniques. The key is to use mounting pins on the edges of the grille to prevent it from moving during installation.

Problems arising from use

Sagging gratings – how to avoid problems with the substructure?Sagging grass grids are most often caused by an improperly constructed substructure. To prevent this, it is crucial to use a suitable bearing layer of aggregate of the correct fraction (e.g. 0-31.5 mm) to ensure stability and permeability. This layer must be carefully compacted mechanically to increase its bearing capacity and reduce the risk of settlement. In addition, it is a good idea to use a geotextile fabric to separate the construction layers and prevent mixing of materials.

Grass grid shifting during use – how to prevent it? Grass grid shifting may be due to incorrect installation or lack of proper restraints such as curbs or mounting pins. To prevent this, make sure the grass grids are well connected and the edges of the structure are firmly set into the restraints.

Inadequate drainage – how to improve the drainage system? Check that the ground has an adequate slope (approx. 1-2%) towards the natural water drainage. If the slope is too low, it can be improved by levelling or adding material in appropriate places. Furthermore, regular maintenance and cleaning of the pavement will further avoid water flow being blocked by sediment or dirt.

Summary

Proper installation of the grass grids is key to creating a stable and aesthetically pleasing surface. The process involves thorough site preparation, proper construction of the bearing and levelling layers, precise connection of the grids and proper infilling of the structures. Each step, from site analysis to final compaction, affects the durability and functionality of the entire structure.

If you want a solution that combines sustainability, ecology and practicality, Stella Green grass grids are the perfect choice. Created from recycled materials, they harmoniously combine care for the environment with the highest quality standards. They will make your space not only practical, but also aesthetically unique. Stella Green is more than just a grass grids – it is a conscious investment in a sustainable and ecological environment that delights in appearance and serves for years to come.