Focus on Comfort. Use shock-absorbing pads and soft decoration techniques to create a soft leisure area
Urban living often means limited outdoor space—balconies and rooftops are our only escapes to the outdoors, yet their hard cement floors feel cold, uncomfortable, and uninviting. Placing artificial lawn on cement is the ultimate balcony makeover and rooftop garden solution, turning rigid concrete surfaces into soft, lush green leisure areas without the hassle of natural grass. Unlike standard hard-surface turf installation, this project prioritizes comfort above all: using artificial grass shock pad and foam underlay, choosing the right turf type, and implementing smart fixing methods (including glue-free temporary options) are the keys to creating a cozy, foot-friendly space. Whether you’re designing a small balcony nook or a sprawling rooftop garden turf area, this guide breaks down how to put artificial turf on concrete for maximum softness, shares critical installation precautions for elevated cement surfaces, and highlights Turflory’s tailored green solutions for urban gardening and small-space living.
The secret to making hard cement floors soft: shock-absorbing pads
The biggest flaw of cement floors is their hard, unforgiving surface—and the single most impactful upgrade to fix this is adding an artificial grass shock pad (or foam underlay) between the cement and artificial turf. This thin, cushioned layer is the secret to transforming a cold cement floor into a soft, springy surface that’s comfortable to walk on barefoot, sit on, or even play on—all while protecting the turf and boosting its durability. Generic underlays won’t cut it; choosing a turf-specific shock pad designed for cement surfaces ensures the perfect balance of softness, drainage, and longevity, and pairs seamlessly with soft artificial grass for a luxurious feel.
Here’s what to look for in a shock pad/foam underlay for cement floors, and how to install it for optimal comfort:
1. Choose the right material and thickness: Opt for a closed-cell EVA foam or rubber shock pad (10–20mm thick) — it’s water-resistant, mold-proof, and provides just the right amount of cushioning without being too soft (which causes the turf to shift). Avoid open-cell foam, which absorbs water and will mildew on cement.
2. Prioritize drainage: Look for a shock pad with perforations or a grooved design that allows water to flow through to the cement floor and drain away—critical for elevated surfaces like balconies and rooftops where standing water is a risk.
3. Easy installation: Lay the shock pad flat on the clean, dry cement floor, cutting it to fit the space with a utility knife. Overlap seams by 1–2 inches and secure with a small piece of double-sided tape to prevent shifting—no glue needed for the pad itself.
4. Lay turf on top: Once the pad is in place, lay your soft artificial grass over it (modular or roll turf works) and fix the turf using your chosen method (glue, double-sided tape, or heavy objects). The shock pad will create a buffer between the hard cement and the turf, making every step feel soft and reducing wear on the turf backing.
Pairing a high-quality shock pad with Turflory’s residential turf — designed with dense, soft fibers for residential comfort — creates a surface that’s indistinguishable from a lush natural lawn, with none of the maintenance or hard cement feel.
Installation precautions for balconies and rooftop gardens
Installing artificial turf on balcony and rooftop cement floors comes with unique challenges that ground-level concrete installations don’t face: wind exposure, weight limits, drainage restrictions, and structural safety. These elevated spaces require extra care to ensure the installation is secure, durable, and compliant with building codes—cutting corners here can lead to turf damage, water damage to the building, or even safety hazards. Below are the critical installation precautions to follow, plus expert tips for mitigating risks like wind lift and water pooling, all aligned with Turflory’s landscape turf design principles for urban spaces.
Wind influence and compaction fixation of heavy objects
Wind is the biggest threat to balcony and rooftop turf installations—cement floors are exposed, and gusts can lift loose turf edges or even the entire mat if not fixed properly. Compaction fixation with heavy objects is the most effective, non-permanent way to secure the turf (ideal for renters or those who want to avoid glue), and it pairs perfectly with light adhesive methods like double-sided tape for extra security. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Secure edges with double-sided tape first: Apply heavy-duty, weather-resistant double-sided turf tape along the perimeter of the cement floor (2 inches from the edge) — this holds the turf edges down and prevents wind from getting underneath, the main cause of lift.
2. Use heavy, weatherproof objects for compaction: Place potted plants, outdoor furniture, stone pavers, or decorative planters along the turf edges and in high-wind areas (e.g., balcony railings, rooftop corners). These objects add weight to keep the turf flat and secure, and they blend into the urban gardening aesthetic of the space.
3. Avoid overhanging turf: Cut the turf to fit the cement floor exactly—no overhanging edges, as these catch wind and tear easily. Leave a ¼-inch gap between the turf and balcony/rooftop walls for drainage and to prevent the turf from rubbing and fraying.
4. For permanent installations: add extra tape/sealant: If you own the space, apply a small bead of weather-resistant sealant along the turf’s edge where it meets the wall—this blocks wind and water, and adds an extra layer of security.
Other critical balcony/rooftop installation precautions:
• Check weight limits: Cement balconies/rooftops have strict weight limits—opt for lightweight shock pads (EVA foam) and low-pile soft artificial grass to avoid exceeding them. Avoid heavy infill or thick underlays that add unnecessary weight.
• Prioritize drainage: Ensure the cement floor has a slight slope (1–2%) for water runoff, and keep floor drains or scuppers unclogged. Cut drainage holes in the turf and shock pad if needed to direct water to drains—never block drainage on elevated surfaces.
• Protect the cement surface: Lay a thin, non-slip mat under the shock pad if the cement is polished or slippery—this prevents the entire turf/pad system from shifting, even when wet.
• UV protection: Choose turf with UV-stabilized fibers (like Turflory’s residential turf) — balconies and rooftops get direct, intense sunlight, and non-UV-treated turf will fade and fray quickly.
Selection of modular lawn vs. roll lawn
When placing artificial lawn on cement floors for balconies and rooftops, choosing between modular lawn (interlocking turf tiles) and roll lawn (continuous turf rolls) is a critical decision that impacts installation ease, customization, and the overall feel of the space. Both options work with shock pads and soft decoration techniques, but each has unique advantages for different urban spaces—whether you’re a renter looking for a temporary solution, a homeowner wanting a permanent balcony makeover, or designing a large rooftop garden. The key is to match the turf type to your space size, installation goals (temporary vs. permanent), and DIY skill level.
Modular Lawn (Interlocking Turf Tiles)
Best for: Small balconies, renters, temporary installations, or those who want easy DIY setup with no glue/tape.
Key Advantages:
1. No cutting or measuring: Modular tiles come in standard sizes (30x30cm, 50x50cm) and interlock like puzzle pieces—simply snap them together to fit the cement floor, no utility knife needed.
2. 100% glue-free: The interlocking design holds the tiles in place on its own, with no need for tape, glue, or heavy objects (though adding a few weights for wind is recommended).
3. Easy to remove and reconfigure: Perfect for renters or those who want to change their space—simply unclip the tiles and store them when not in use, with no damage to the cement floor.
4. Waterproof and drainable: Most modular turf tiles have a perforated plastic base that allows water to drain directly through to the cement floor—ideal for balconies with limited drainage.
Considerations: Seams between tiles are visible (though minimal), and modular lawn is less cost-effective for large rooftop spaces.
Roll Lawn (Continuous Turf Rolls)
Best for: Large balconies, rooftop gardens, permanent installations, or those who want a seamless, natural look with soft artificial grass.
Key Advantages:
1. Seamless aesthetic: Roll lawn creates a continuous, unbroken green surface with no visible tiles—perfect for mimicking a natural lawn and creating a cohesive leisure area.
2. Customizable size: Cut roll lawn to fit any cement floor shape or size (e.g., odd-shaped balconies, rooftop nooks) with a utility knife—ultra-flexible for unique urban spaces.
3. More softness options: Roll lawn is available in thicker, denser soft artificial grass varieties that pair perfectly with shock pads for a more luxurious feel than modular tiles.
4. Cost-effective for large spaces: Roll lawn is far more budget-friendly than modular tiles for large rooftop gardens or spacious balconies.
Considerations: Requires cutting and measuring (basic DIY skills needed), and needs to be fixed with tape, glue, or heavy objects to prevent shifting/wind lift.
Pro Tip: For a hybrid solution, use modular lawn for small balcony corners and roll lawn for the main space—this combines easy installation with a seamless look, and works perfectly with a single shock pad under both. Turflory offers both modular and roll options in soft artificial grass varieties, all designed for cement floor use and urban small spaces.
Temporary laying plan without using glue (double-sided tape)
Many urban dwellers—especially renters—want to enjoy the benefits of artificial lawn on their cement balcony/rooftop without making permanent changes or using glue that damages the floor. A temporary installation using only double-sided tape is the perfect solution: it’s secure, easy to install, 100% removable, and leaves no residue on the cement floor—all while keeping the turf flat, soft, and wind-resistant. This plan pairs perfectly with modular or roll lawn, a shock pad for comfort, and heavy object compaction for extra security, and it’s the most popular method for balcony makeover projects in apartments and rental homes.
Follow this step-by-step temporary laying plan for glue-free artificial turf on cement floors, using only double-sided tape and basic household tools:
1. Prepare the cement floor: Clean the floor thoroughly with a pressure washer or scrub brush (remove dirt, dust, and mildew) and let it dry completely (24 hours). A clean, dry surface is critical for double-sided tape adhesion—moisture or dirt will make the tape fail.
2. Lay the shock pad/foam underlay: Cut the shock pad to fit the cement floor and lay it flat. Secure pad seams with a small piece of low-tack double-sided tape (only enough to prevent shifting—no need for heavy tape here).
3. Choose the right double-sided tape: Use heavy-duty, weather-resistant turf double-sided tape (1–2 inches wide) — generic household tape will not hold up to outdoor conditions, wind, or foot traffic. Turf tape is designed for synthetic grass and hard surfaces like cement, and it’s removable with no residue.
4. Apply tape for modular/roll lawn:
￮ Modular lawn: Apply a strip of tape along the cement perimeter only—this holds the outer tiles down against wind, and the interlocking design holds the rest in place.
￮ Roll lawn: Apply tape along the perimeter and at all seam joints (if using multiple rolls). Lay the tape flat on the cement (or shock pad) and peel off the backing—press the turf firmly onto the tape to create a strong bond.
5. Add compaction weights (optional but recommended): Place potted plants, stone pavers, or outdoor furniture along the turf edges and in high-wind areas—this adds extra security and eliminates any chance of wind lift, with no permanent changes.
6. Finish the space: Add soft decor (outdoor cushions, rugs, string lights) to boost comfort and create a cozy leisure area—your glue-free, temporary turf installation is complete!
Removal Tip: To take down the turf, simply lift the edges (the tape will peel off easily) and roll up the turf and shock pad. Wipe the cement floor with a damp cloth to remove any minor adhesive residue—no scrubbing or harsh chemicals needed.
This temporary plan is not only renter-friendly but also perfect for homeowners who want to test out a turf design before committing to a permanent glue installation, and it works with all Turflory soft artificial grass options for maximum comfort.
Turflory's Green Solutions for Urban Living
Urban living doesn’t have to mean sacrificing green space or comfort—and Turflory’s tailored green solutions for cement balconies, rooftops, and small outdoor areas make it easy to create lush, soft, low-maintenance leisure spaces with artificial turf. As a leading manufacturer of residential and landscape artificial grass, Turflory understands the unique challenges of urban gardening and cement floor installations: limited space, wind exposure, weight limits, and the need for both comfort and durability. Turflory’s turf solutions for urban living combine soft artificial grass, turf-specific shock pads, modular/roll options, and renter-friendly installation methods—all designed to transform hard cement floors into inviting green spaces that fit every urban lifestyle, from small apartment balconies to large rooftop gardens.
Here’s what makes Turflory’s green solutions the perfect choice for placing artificial lawn on cement floors:
1. Soft, residential-grade turf fibers: Turflory’s residential turf features dense, soft polyethylene fibers (pile height 20–30mm) that are gentle on bare feet and perfect for sitting/playing—true soft artificial grass that pairs seamlessly with shock pads for maximum comfort on cement. The multi-tone green blend mimics natural grass, creating a lush, realistic look that elevates any balcony makeover.
2. Lightweight, drainage-focused design: All Turflory turf for urban spaces has a perforated, high-flow backing and is lightweight—critical for cement balconies/rooftops with weight limits. Drainage holes allow water to flow through quickly, preventing pooling and mold, and the turf is mold-proof and mildew-resistant, even in the humid, shaded conditions common to urban balconies.
3. Modular and roll options for every space: Turflory offers both interlocking modular turf tiles (for small, temporary installations) and continuous roll lawn (for large, permanent rooftop gardens)—all cut to fit and easy to install with glue-free double-sided tape or permanent adhesive.
4. Turf-specific shock pads/foam underlay: Turflory’s custom EVA foam shock pads (10–20mm thick) are designed to pair with their artificial grass for cement floors—perforated for drainage, water-resistant, and perfectly cushioned to transform hard cement into a soft surface. The pads are lightweight and easy to lay, with no glue needed.
5. UV-stabilized and weather-resistant: Turflory’s urban turf is treated with advanced UV-stabilization technology, making it resistant to fading, fraying, and brittleness from direct rooftop/balcony sunlight. It also stands up to rain, wind, and extreme temperatures, ensuring year-round greenery and comfort with zero maintenance.
6. Renter-friendly and DIY-accessible: All Turflory urban turf solutions are designed for easy DIY installation, with glue-free options (double-sided tape, modular tiles) that leave no residue on cement floors. No professional installers needed—create your green space in a single afternoon with basic tools.
Beyond the product itself, Turflory offers expert design and installation advice for urban cement floor projects, including custom sizing, wind fixation tips, and drainage solutions tailored to balconies and rooftops. Whether you’re a renter looking for a temporary balcony makeover or a homeowner designing a permanent rooftop garden, Turflory’s green solutions make it easy to put artificial turf on concrete and create a soft, lush outdoor escape in the heart of the city.
Placing artificial lawn on cement floors is the ultimate way to upgrade urban balconies and rooftops—turning cold, hard concrete into soft, inviting green leisure spaces that boost your quality of life and add a touch of nature to city living. The key to success is prioritizing comfort with an artificial grass shock pad and soft artificial grass, following critical installation precautions for elevated spaces (wind fixation, drainage, weight limits), and choosing the right turf type (modular vs. roll) for your needs—whether temporary or permanent. For renters, a glue-free temporary installation with double-sided tape is the perfect renter-friendly solution, while homeowners can opt for a seamless roll lawn installation for a permanent balcony makeover or rooftop garden.
Turflory’s green solutions for urban living are designed specifically for cement floor installations, combining soft, realistic turf, lightweight shock pads, and DIY-accessible installation methods that fit every urban space and lifestyle. With Turflory, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or greenery for city living—create a soft, low-maintenance leisure area on your cement balcony or rooftop, and enjoy the beauty of nature right at your doorstep.
