Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/30/2008

Question
Bruce, I am going to install outdoor turf carpet around a pool. I need to know what type of material can be graded and compacted for the base.We plan to install a drain system to handle the water. It was suggested that I use crushed limestone. Would appreciate your opinion. Thanks,Bill

Answer
Hi Bill, I am not a big fan of crushed limestone, it becomes nasty when it gets wet and eventually turns to mush.  Plus when you do artificial turf it is basically like laying a carpet on the ground.  If the base is hard and rocky then it will be uncomfortable to walk on.  I imagine a good base would include crushed rock for drainage, a layer of landscape cloth, a layer of sand and then turf.  However, I would defer to any manufacturer's recommendations.  Most artificial surfaces come with installation instructions regarding the base construction and other installation issues.   I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com