How to Install Rubber Grass Mats: Complete DIY Installation Guide
Installing rubber grass mats is a straightforward DIY project that most people can complete in a few hours. Whether you're creating a safe playground surface, protecting a muddy gateway, or establishing accessible pathways, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the installation process.
With the right preparation and technique, your rubber grass mats will provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance.
Tools and Materials You'll Need
Essential Tools
- Tape measure or measuring wheel
- String line and pegs for marking out
- Spade or shovel for ground preparation
- Rake for levelling
- Rubber mallet (for securing interlocking edges)
- Sharp utility knife or mat cutter (for trimming)
- Spirit level (optional but recommended)
- Wheelbarrow (for moving mats)
Materials Required
- Rubber grass mats (calculate quantity based on area)
- Edge ramps or finishing strips (for perimeter edges)
- Landscape fabric (optional, for weed suppression)
- Sharp sand or fine gravel (optional, for levelling)
- Ground pegs (optional, for sloped areas or exposed locations)
Step 1: Planning and Measuring Your Installation Area
Proper planning is crucial for a successful installation. Here's how to get started:
Calculate Your Mat Quantity
Measure the length and width of your installation area in metres. For rectangular areas, multiply length × width to get square metres. Add 5-10% extra for cuts, wastage, and future repairs.
Example calculation: For a 6m × 4m area = 24m². With 10% extra = 26.4m² total coverage needed.
Our standard 1m x 1.5m mats cover 1.5m² each, so you'd need 18 mats. For larger areas, consider our 10m rolls for faster installation.
Mark Out Your Area
- Use string lines and pegs to mark the exact perimeter
- Ensure corners are square (use the 3-4-5 triangle method)
- Mark any obstacles like trees, posts, or drainage points
- Take photos for reference during installation
Step 2: Site Preparation
Proper ground preparation is the foundation of a long-lasting installation. Don't skip this step!
Clear the Area
- Remove all debris, stones, sharp objects, and vegetation
- Cut grass very short (10-15mm) or remove turf completely
- Remove any protruding roots or stumps
- Fill any holes or depressions with soil or sand
Level the Ground
While rubber grass mats can accommodate minor undulations, a level surface provides the best results:
- Use a rake to create an even surface
- Remove high spots and fill low areas
- For playground installations, ensure proper drainage slope (1-2% gradient away from equipment)
- Compact loose soil by walking over it or using a roller
- Check levels with a spirit level or straight edge
Optional: Install Landscape Fabric
For areas with persistent weed problems, lay landscape fabric before installing mats. This suppresses weed growth while still allowing drainage. Overlap fabric edges by 150mm and secure with landscape pins.
Step 3: Installing Individual Rubber Grass Mats
Now for the main installation process. Work systematically for the best results.
Starting Point
Always start from a fixed edge or corner:
- For rectangular areas, start from one corner
- For pathways, start from the most visible or accessible end
- Ensure your first mat is perfectly positioned - all subsequent mats follow from this
Laying the First Mat
- Position your first rubber grass mat in the corner
- Ensure it's square to your string lines
- Check it's level and sitting flat on the ground
- This mat sets the alignment for your entire installation
Interlocking Subsequent Mats
Most rubber grass mats feature interlocking edges for secure connection:
- Position the second mat adjacent to the first
- Align the interlocking edges carefully
- Push the mats together firmly - you should hear/feel them click
- Use a rubber mallet to tap edges together if needed (never use a metal hammer)
- Ensure there are no gaps between mats
- Check alignment every 3-4 mats to prevent drift
Working Across the Area
- Work in rows, completing one row before starting the next
- Stagger joints in a brick-bond pattern where possible (improves stability)
- Keep checking alignment with your string lines
- Step back regularly to check the overall appearance
Step 4: Cutting and Fitting Around Obstacles
You'll likely need to cut mats to fit around edges, posts, or other obstacles.
Measuring for Cuts
- Measure twice, cut once - accuracy is crucial
- Create a cardboard template for complex shapes
- Mark cutting lines clearly on the mat surface
- Allow 2-3mm clearance around fixed obstacles for expansion
Cutting Technique
- Place the mat on a flat, stable surface
- Use a sharp utility knife or specialist mat cutter
- Score the cutting line first, then make deeper cuts
- For thick mats (23mm), you may need multiple passes
- Cut from the top surface for cleanest edges
- Smooth any rough edges with the knife
Safety tip: Always cut away from your body and keep fingers clear of the blade path.
Step 5: Installing Edge Ramps and Finishing
Edge ramps create smooth transitions and prevent trip hazards at the perimeter.
Why Edge Ramps Matter
- Prevent trip hazards (essential for accessibility)
- Stop mat edges lifting over time
- Create professional, finished appearance
- Required for wheelchair accessibility compliance
- Protect mat edges from damage
Installing Edge Ramps
- Measure the perimeter length
- Cut edge ramps to required lengths
- Position ramps flush against mat edges
- Secure with adhesive or ground pegs if needed
- Ensure smooth, level transitions
Step 6: Securing Mats (When Necessary)
Most installations don't require fixing, but some situations benefit from additional security.
When to Secure Mats
- Sloped areas (gradients over 5%)
- Very exposed, windy locations
- Areas with heavy lateral forces (e.g., horse turning areas)
- Temporary installations that may be moved
Securing Methods
Ground Pegs: Drive pegs through drainage holes at mat corners and mid-points. Use rubber or plastic pegs to avoid damaging mats.
Adhesive: For permanent installations on hard surfaces, use outdoor-grade adhesive. Not recommended for grass installations as it prevents removal.
Weight: The mats' own weight (25-35kg each) usually provides sufficient stability for level ground.
Installation Tips for Specific Applications
Playground Safety Surfacing
When installing BS EN 1177 certified playground mats:
- Ensure critical fall zones are completely covered
- Extend coverage 1.5m beyond equipment in all directions
- Pay extra attention to levelling for consistent fall height protection
- Install on free-draining substrate (not solid concrete)
- Follow manufacturer's installation guidelines to maintain certification
- Consider professional installation for compliance documentation
Equestrian Gateway Matting
For horse stable and paddock installations:
- Extend mats well beyond the muddy area (horses will create new mud at edges)
- Install on well-drained base - dig out and replace heavy clay if necessary
- Use 23mm thickness minimum for horse traffic
- Secure edges with pegs to prevent horses lifting corners
- Create smooth transitions to prevent tripping
Pathway and Walkway Installation
For accessible routes and pathways:
- Maintain consistent width throughout
- Ensure maximum 1:12 gradient for wheelchair access
- Install edge ramps on both sides
- Create passing places on longer pathways
- Consider roll formats for long, straight runs
Event and Temporary Installations
- Install on existing grass without removal (grass will recover after removal)
- Don't peg down unless absolutely necessary (easier removal)
- Mark mat positions before removal for future events
- Store mats flat and dry between uses
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
1. Inadequate Ground Preparation
Problem: Installing on uneven, debris-filled ground causes mats to rock and wear unevenly.
Solution: Spend time properly preparing the base - it's 50% of a successful installation.
2. Not Checking Alignment Regularly
Problem: Small alignment errors compound across large areas, resulting in gaps or overlaps.
Solution: Check alignment every 3-4 mats and adjust before continuing.
3. Forcing Interlocking Edges
Problem: Damaged edges that won't connect properly.
Solution: If edges won't connect easily, check for debris or damage. Never force with excessive hammering.
4. Cutting Mats Too Small
Problem: Gaps that can't be filled.
Solution: Measure carefully and cut slightly oversized - you can always trim more off.
5. Installing on Waterlogged Ground
Problem: Mats sink into soft ground and create uneven surface.
Solution: Wait for ground to dry or improve drainage before installation.
6. Ignoring Drainage
Problem: Water pooling under or around mats.
Solution: Ensure ground has natural drainage slope and drainage holes aren't blocked.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
First Week After Installation
- Walk the entire area checking for any loose connections
- Re-tap any edges that have separated
- Check edge ramps are secure
- Remove any installation debris
- Allow grass to settle (if installed over existing turf)
First Month
- Monitor for any movement or shifting
- Check drainage is working effectively after rainfall
- Secure any corners that have lifted
- Brush surface to remove debris
Ongoing Maintenance
- Brush or hose down monthly to clear drainage holes
- Inspect connections quarterly
- Allow grass to grow through naturally (trim if overgrown)
- Check for wear in high-traffic areas annually
- Replace individual damaged mats as needed
For detailed maintenance guidance, see our complete rubber grass mat care guide.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Installation time varies based on area size and complexity:
- Small area (10-20m²): 2-3 hours including preparation
- Medium area (20-50m²): Half day to full day
- Large area (50-100m²): 1-2 days
- Complex playground (100m²+): 2-3 days with obstacles and equipment
Add extra time for:
- Significant ground levelling work
- Multiple obstacles requiring cutting
- Difficult access requiring manual handling
- First-time installers (learning curve)
DIY vs Professional Installation
When DIY Installation Works Well
- Residential gardens and pathways
- Small to medium areas (under 50m²)
- Simple rectangular layouts
- Level ground with good access
- Non-critical applications (not playground safety surfacing)
When to Consider Professional Installation
- Playground safety surfacing requiring BS EN 1177 compliance documentation
- Large commercial projects (over 100m²)
- Complex layouts with multiple obstacles
- Sloped or difficult terrain
- When installation warranty is required
- Time-critical projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to remove existing grass before installing rubber grass mats?
A: Not necessarily. For temporary installations or areas where you want grass to grow through, cut grass very short (10-15mm) and install directly over it. For permanent installations or heavy-traffic areas, removing turf provides a more stable base.
Q: Can I install rubber grass mats on a slope?
A: Yes, but slopes over 5% gradient should have mats secured with ground pegs to prevent movement. Ensure water drainage flows away from buildings and equipment.
Q: How do I join mats if the interlocking edges are damaged?
A: Minor edge damage can be trimmed with a sharp knife. For significant damage, position damaged edges at the perimeter where edge ramps will cover them, or replace the mat.
Q: Can I install rubber grass mats in winter?
A: Yes, but avoid installing on frozen or waterlogged ground. Mats are easier to handle in moderate temperatures as extreme cold makes rubber less flexible.
Q: Do I need to leave expansion gaps?
A: No, rubber grass mats should be installed edge-to-edge with interlocking connections. The material accommodates temperature expansion naturally.
Q: How soon can the area be used after installation?
A: Immediately for most applications. For playground safety surfacing, conduct a final inspection and ensure all edges are secure before allowing use.
Ready to Start Your Installation?
Now you have all the knowledge needed for a successful rubber grass mat installation. Whether you're creating a safe playground surface, protecting equestrian gateways, or establishing accessible pathways, proper installation ensures years of reliable performance.
Browse our complete range of rubber grass mats, available in individual tiles or convenient rolls for larger projects.
Need help calculating quantities or choosing the right thickness? Contact our expert team for free advice and project-specific recommendations. Free UK delivery on orders over £150.