Can You Lay Artificial Grass Over Decking? Pros, Cons and What to Check First

Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, Quick Home Fix may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe offer genuine value. Read our full disclosure policy.

Step 1: Check the decking is solid

Walk over the whole deck and look for loose boards, raised nails, rot or flexing. Artificial grass will only look good if the base underneath is firm and even.

Step 2: Clean and dry the surface

Sweep off debris, scrub away moss or algae, and let the decking dry fully. Any trapped dirt or moisture can stop the grass sitting flat and may lead to smells or mould.

Step 3: Fix any uneven areas

Replace damaged boards, tighten screws and sand down high spots. Fill major gaps only if they will not interfere with drainage or create soft patches.

Step 4: Lay and test-fit the grass

Roll out the grass and leave it to settle in place. Trim it carefully so the edges meet neatly, and check that doors, steps and drains still work properly.

Step 5: Secure the edges

Use suitable outdoor fixing tape or adhesive at the edges and seams. Keep fixings neat so the grass stays put but can still drain and breathe.

💡 Pro Tips

• Choose a grass with drainage holes for outdoor use.
• Avoid trapping damp leaves or dirt beneath the roll.
• Allow for deck boards moving slightly in hot or cold weather.
• If the deck is badly rotten, repair it first rather than covering it up.

⚠️ Safety First

Use caution with knives and adhesives, and never cover unsafe decking. If boards are loose or rotten, repair the structure before adding anything on top.