If you need to create extra parking and are looking for an affordable solution on how to park on grass or gravel without damaging the surface, good news! You've come to the right place.
Rut and tear are common problems in grass carparks and driveways. Grass reinforcement products are the perfect solution as they can protect ground surfaces from cars while providing additional parking spaces.
Grass reinforcement products can be purchased from a landscape supplies store and come in mesh or plastic paving mat formats. This guide explains the different types available and how to choose the right solution for your specific parking needs.
Grass reinforcement products fall into two main categories: mesh systems and cellular grid systems. Each type offers distinct advantages depending on your site conditions, traffic levels and budget.
Mesh products are typically lighter, easier to install and more affordable. They work by distributing weight across a larger surface area while allowing grass to grow through the open structure.
Cellular grid systems provide deeper protection and higher load capacity. They feature honeycomb or grid structures that create individual cells for soil and grass roots.
The choice between mesh and grid depends on several key factors. Understanding these differences will help you select the most appropriate solution for your project.
Mesh reinforcement products are made from interwoven or extruded polyethylene. They're designed to sit on top of existing grass or can be laid before seeding.
The heavier duty GR14 mesh option handles higher traffic loads and provides excellent protection for regular vehicle use. This 14mm thick mesh is ideal for residential driveways and light commercial parking where cars will be accessing the surface multiple times per day.
For lighter applications, the standard GR11 mesh product offers cost-effective protection for occasional vehicle access. This option works well for overflow parking areas that only see heavy use during events or peak periods.
Mesh products offer several benefits that make them popular choices:
Cellular paving grids feature a honeycomb or grid structure with individual cells. These cells are filled with soil and grass seed or gravel depending on your preference.
The EconoGrid40 porous paving system provides 40mm deep cells that protect grassroots from compaction damage. This cellular design allows roots to spread naturally between cells, creating stronger and thicker grass coverage that handles regular vehicle traffic.
For premium applications requiring maximum load capacity, the Miracell honeycomb grid system offers exceptional strength while maintaining excellent drainage properties. This system suits commercial applications, fire access routes and areas with heavy vehicle movements.
Grid systems provide distinct advantages:
Several important considerations will influence which grass reinforcement product best suits your needs. Taking time to assess these factors ensures you choose the right system first time.
The frequency and weight of vehicles using the area directly impacts which product you should choose. Light occasional use requires different reinforcement than daily heavy traffic.
Standard passenger vehicles suit mesh reinforcement products for occasional use. Heavier vehicles like delivery trucks or trailers need cellular grid systems with higher load ratings.
Your existing soil type affects installation methods and product selection. Clay soils with poor drainage benefit from cellular systems that improve water flow.
Sandy soils with good drainage work well with mesh systems. Soft or unstable ground requires deeper cellular grids to distribute loads effectively.
Mesh products can be installed quickly without excavation, making them ideal for time-sensitive projects. Simply lay the mesh over prepared ground and peg in place.
Cellular grids require excavation, base preparation and more labour but provide superior long-term performance. Consider both initial costs and lifecycle value when budgeting.
Proper installation ensures your grass reinforcement system performs as expected. The installation method varies depending on which type of product you've selected.
Mesh installation is straightforward and can be completed by competent DIY installers. Best results come from installing during the active growing season when grass can quickly establish through the mesh.
The basic installation steps include:
For foot traffic areas with less vehicle use, the lighter TR4 turf mesh provides adequate protection at a lower price point. This recycled plastic mesh works perfectly for pathways, event areas and occasional access routes.
Grid systems require more preparation but create a permanent hard-wearing surface. The installation process takes longer but results in superior performance.
Follow these installation steps for cellular grids:
Both mesh and grid systems require minimal maintenance once established. Regular grass care including mowing, feeding and watering keeps the surface looking good.
Mesh products may need replacement after 5-10 years depending on usage levels. Grid systems typically last 20 years or more with proper installation.
Inspect the surface periodically for signs of wear or movement. Address any issues promptly to prevent deterioration.
Top up soil in grid cells if settlement occurs. Overseed thin patches to maintain complete grass coverage.
Grass reinforcement provides a practical and environmentally friendly solution for converting grass surfaces into usable parking areas. The right product depends on your specific requirements for traffic, budget and installation timeframe.
Choose mesh systems for quick installation, lower costs and light to moderate vehicle use. Select cellular grids for heavy traffic, maximum durability and superior drainage performance.
Both options deliver excellent results when properly installed and maintained. Consider your priorities carefully to select the best solution for your parking on grass project.
