Can artificial grass by fitted over decorative chips?

Can Artificial Grass Be Laid Over Decorative Chips?

Artificial grass is becoming more and more popular across the UK, especially for homeowners looking to replace hard surfaces like patios, paving, or concrete with something softer and greener. A common question we hear is:

Can artificial grass be laid over decorative chips?

Short answer: Yes — but not directly.

Decorative chips alone don’t give a stable, long-lasting base for artificial grass. If you prepare the layers properly and ensure drainage is right, you’ll get a smooth, solid finish that lasts.

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Preparation checklist

Before you start, check these points:

Membrane: If the membrane under the chips is damaged, replace it with non-woven geotextile membrane. If intact, you can leave it in place or even double membrane it top and bottom..

Dogs: Don’t rely on a top membrane if you have dogs — it will trap urine and cause odours.

Drainage: Make sure water can escape. Fix poor drainage with gravel ditches/trenches, perforated pipe etc.

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Materials you’ll need

Non-woven geotextile membrane (if replacing)

20 mm whin chips (or similar)

Granodust / whindust / 10mm drainage stone

6 mm drainage stone

Recycled fine grit

Zeolite (optional — odour control)

Plate compactor

Rake, shovel, spirit level

Artificial grass, adhesive / fixing pegs

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Step-by-step installation

1. Inspect the membrane

Replace if damaged or of poor quality, otherwise leave in place.

2. Check chip depth & drainage

Ensure the existing chip depth is adequate and water drains freely.

3. Fix drainage issues

Install gravel trenches, ditches, perforated pipe etc to allow water to escape.

4. Lay the 20mm whin chips

Spread an even layer of whin chips (or similar stone) over the area. This forms the first stabilising layer.

5. Add the finer blend

On top of the whin chips, add a mix of granodust, 6 mm drainage stone, recycled treated fine grit and Zeolite. This creates a smooth, compactable surface with excellent drainage.

6. Level & compact

Rake level and compact with a plate compactor until solid and flat.

7. Fit the artificial grass

Roll out, cut to shape, join seams, and secure edges with adhesive or pegs.

8. Brush & finish

Brush up the pile, check for low spots, and inspect drainage.

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Key tips

Drainage is critical: Never skip this step, especially in areas with heavy rain.

Dog owners: Zeolite is highly recommended — it absorbs ammonia and reduces smells.

Edge restraint: Install solid edging to stop chips and sub-base from shifting.

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Conclusion

You can lay artificial grass over decorative chips, but it must be done with the correct base layers and drainage solutions. The right preparation makes all the difference between a patchy, smelly surface and a professional, long-lasting lawn.

Installing new artificial grass over decorative chips is far less expensive than doing a full excavation as it saves on labour costs, less sub-base materials and skip hire.