How Should You Build the Base for Non-Infill Artificial Turf?

The basic principle is:

Build the foundation first, then install the turf.

A typical outdoor structure can be:

Compacted subgrade → graded aggregate sub-base → concrete or asphalt base → optional shock pad → non-infill artificial turf

The most important factors are:

1. Stable and properly compacted subgrade
2. Adequate aggregate sub-base
3. High-quality concrete or asphalt surface
4. Consistent surface flatness
5. Correct drainage slope and drainage capacity
6. Adequate curing and moisture condition
7. Proper treatment of cracks and joints
8. Compliance with the turf and adhesive manufacturer’s installation requirements

And perhaps the most important takeaway is:

There is no universal “3 mm / 2‰ / 28 days / C25” recipe that should automatically be applied to every non-infill turf project. Those figures can be useful reference points, but the final requirements should come from the project’s civil design, applicable standards, local climate and soil conditions, and the selected turf system.

For a high-quality non-infill installation, the turf and the foundation should be designed as one system—not as two separate products.