How to Choose the Best Artificial Grass Supplier: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Buy

What safety and quality certifications can you show me? Why it matters: Family‑friendly gardens need products that are safe, durable and UV‑stable. Documentation beats promises every time. Ask for:

• • REACH compliance statements (controls restricted substances).
    
  • EN 71‑3 test results (toy safety heavy metals migration) where applicable.
    
  • UV stability data and colourfastness ratings.
    
  • Fire behaviour information appropriate for landscaping use. Red flags:
    
  • Vague “complies with standards” claims with no documents.
    
  • No manufacturer product data sheets or lab tests available.
    

What’s the full installation build‑up and why? Why it matters: 80% of success is in the groundworks. The right sub‑base and drainage stop movement, odours and puddling. Ask for:

• • Sub‑base depth and type (e.g., MOT Type 1, permeable aggregates) and compaction approach.
    
  • Edging solution (aluminium, treated timber, concrete haunch) and why it suits your garden.
    
  • Permeable backing and any geotextile layers for separation/weeds.
    
  • Infill choice (coated silica sand, amount per m²) and its purpose. Red flags:
    
  • “We’ll see on the day” or one‑size‑fits‑all build‑ups.
    
  • No mention of permeability or attention to drainage outlets/levels.

How do you design for drainage and local conditions? Why it matters: UK weather, clay soils and shaded areas need specific solutions to avoid waterlogging and smells—especially for pets. Ask for:

• • Drainage plan: falls, soakaway options (where relevant) or permeable sub‑base design.
    
  • Pet‑friendly spec: permeable base, odour‑control options, cleaning advice.
    
  • Shaded gardens: moss management tips and maintenance schedule. Red flags:
    
  • No site survey, no levels check, no questions about soil type, trees or pets.

What’s your product spec and how does it compare? Why it matters: Not all artificial grass is equal. Fibre type, pile height and tuft bind affect feel, realism and lifespan. Ask for:

• • Pile height and density (stitches per m²) suited to your use (family, pets, play).
    
  • Yarn: soft polyethylene with UV stabilisers and low sheen.
    
  • Tuft bind/tear strength data and backing details (prefer permeable; latex‑free options available if allergies).
    
  • Sample comparison: mid and premium options with pros/cons. Red flags:
    
  • Only “cheap” options; no explanation of density, yarn quality or backing differences.
    
  • Overly glossy yarns that look artificial or low tuft bind likely to shed.
    

Who carries out the installation and what guarantee do I get? Why it matters: Skilled crews and clear guarantees protect your investment. Ask for:

• • Installation by in‑house teams or vetted partners, not unverified subcontractors.
    
  • Written workmanship guarantee (e.g., 2–5 years) and product warranty (e.g., 8–10+ years UV warranty).
  • What’s covered: seams, ripples, subsidence, drainage performance. Red flags:
    
  • Warranty only covers the grass roll, not the installation.
    
  • No aftercare support or unclear process for call‑backs.
    

How will you handle edges, seams and high‑wear areas? Why it matters: The neatness and durability of seams and edges make or break the look—and longevity. Ask for:

• • Seam method (joining tape + exterior adhesive) and how they hide joins on curves.
    
  • Edge detail at patios, fences and flowerbeds; transition strips to prevent trip edges.
    
  • Reinforcement in goalmouths, pet runs or under play equipment; optional shock‑pad for play zones. Red flags:
    
  • Visible, straight‑line seams across main sightlines; minimal adhesive usage to save time.
    

What aftercare do you recommend—and can you provide it? Why it matters: Light maintenance keeps the lawn fresh and extends life. Ask for:

• • Simple routine: brushing, leaf removal, occasional rinse; pet enzyme cleaners where needed.
    
  • Optional annual pro‑clean service and cost.
    
  • Troubleshooting guidance for stains, moss or odours. Red flags:
    
  • “Maintenance‑free” claims with no written aftercare guidance.
    
  • No advice for pets, trees, or shaded plots.

Cost transparency: compare like‑for‑like When you get quotes, insist on an itemised breakdown:

• Groundworks (excavation, sub‑base depth and type, edging).
  
• Grass product (range, pile height, density).
  
• Infill and any shock‑pad.
  
• Waste removal and recycling.
  
• Optional add‑ons (pet system, pro clean, warranty upgrades). This lets you compare the true value, not just the headline price.
  

Common red flags when choosing a supplier

• No site visit or video survey before quoting.
  
• Cash‑only deals, pressure tactics, or “today only” discounts.
  
• Refusal to provide references or recent local installs to view.
  
• Lack of documentation for safety, UV stability or warranties.