What to lay under artificial grass on tiled balcony

[ZoeT85]

Hi all. I've recently bought an apartment with a large tiled balcony (approx 4mx6m). I plan on laying artificial grass on one section as a little play area/kids zone for my little one. Hoping to also reduce some of the harshness of the traffic noise (have learnt a large tiled balcony is a massive sound amplifier box). So want to add some matting under the grass to add thickness to absorb some sound and for extra cushioning. Suggestions/thoughts? (I know I can't eliminate sound but this is just one thing of may I'm adding to help reduce it) 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @ZoeT85. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about balconies.

Balconies in apartments are typically a solid concrete slab, so in terms of traffic noise transmission, adding layers on top is unlikely to make a noticeable difference to the noise coming through the structure itself. Most of what you are hearing is ambient airborne noise reflecting around the tiled surfaces rather than sound travelling up through the slab. Adding artificial grass with an underlay can help soften the space acoustically by reducing echo and harsh reflections, but it is unlikely to significantly reduce traffic noise levels in any meaningful way. That said, it can still make the balcony feel calmer and more comfortable, which is a worthwhile improvement in itself.

Using some form of cushioning under the artificial grass makes sense for comfort and to keep the turf off the hard tile surface. If you do this, it is important to choose a material that can handle moisture without breaking down or trapping water. Rubber matting designed for outdoor use is generally the safest option, as it will not rot and can cope with occasional wetting. Foam-based products or absorbent mats tend to hold moisture, which can lead to lingering dampness, odours, and potential issues with mould over time.

Drainage is the big thing to be careful of on a balcony. Whatever you put down must not block or slow water from reaching the existing drains. In heavy rain, even a small obstruction can cause water to pond and potentially back up toward door thresholds, which can then lead to water entering the apartment. Before laying anything, it is worth identifying exactly where the balcony drains are and making sure those areas are left completely clear or that water can freely pass through the matting and turf.

One other thing worth mentioning, purely from a safety point of view, is being cautious about creating a dedicated play zone on a balcony. The more comfortable and inviting the space becomes for a child, the more time they are likely to spend there, and balconies are not generally designed as primary play areas. It is important to remain mindful of climbing risks around balustrades and furniture placement, particularly as children get older and more adventurous.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell