Frequently Asked Questions

Listed below are some of the more frequently asked questions that we receive.  We also have an extensive amount of information on our Resources Section.  You can also feel free to contact our team.

Technical Features

Can UBS reduce traditional rock sub-base requirements?
Answer: Yes, UBS eliminates the need for a traditional rock sub-base, providing drainage, stability, and shock absorption in a single layer. This reduces the cost, weight, and environmental impact of heavy sub-base materials.

Do the panels contour over shapes of a putting green or field pitch?Answer: UBS panels are flexible enough to contour over various shapes, slopes, and gradients. This makes them ideal for installations on putting greens or sports fields with unique pitches, allowing for smooth, seamless surfaces that conform to the desired contour without creating uneven spots.

Do the panels drain well?
Answer: UBS panels feature a highly efficient drainage system with channels that direct water away from the surface both vertically and horizontally. This drainage system helps to prevent puddling, allows rapid drying, and keeps the surface ready for use in any weather condition.

Why do the panels have turf barbs?
Answer: The integrated turf barbs in UBS panels are designed to grip synthetic turf securely in place, preventing any shifting or movement during use. This feature is especially important for high-traffic areas, as it keeps the turf stable without the need for adhesives.

Are the panels strong?
Answer: UBS panels are constructed with high-strength materials to withstand heavy loads, including sports activities, foot traffic, and in some cases, vehicles when used with pavers. Their strength and durability make them suitable for a range of applications, from playgrounds to parking areas.

Installation and Preparation

What ground preparation is required?
Answer: Proper ground preparation is essential for a successful UBS installation. This includes removing organic material, leveling, compacting, and applying geotextile fabric. These steps create a stable base that enhances panel performance, longevity, and drainage.

Is the geotextile fabric important?
Answer: Yes, geotextile fabric is essential for the stability and durability of a UBS installation. It prevents soil migration, enhances drainage, and creates a stable base by helping to distribute weight and prevent uneven settling. Geotextile fabric also inhibits weed growth and protects the UBS panels from potential shifts in the subsoil.

Should the panels be spiked to the ground?
Answer: Spiking the panels to the ground is not typically necessary, as the weight of the panels and their interlocking design provide sufficient stability. However, in certain situations, such as on slopes or in windy environments, spikes or anchors may be used to secure the panels further.

Performance and Safety

Are the panels hard on the body during athletic play?
Answer: No, UBS panels are designed to absorb impact, providing a cushioned feel under synthetic turf that reduces stress on joints and muscles. This cushioning effect makes UBS ideal for sports, playgrounds, and high-impact activities, improving player comfort and reducing injury risk.

Are the panels pet-friendly?
Answer: Yes, UBS panels are pet-friendly and are ideal for dog runs, play areas, and pet-friendly landscapes. The panels allow for easy cleaning, quick drainage, and a stable surface that withstands wear and tear from active pets.

Is UBS safe for sports like soccer or golf?
Answer: Yes, UBS panels provide reliable traction and a consistent surface suitable for various sports, including soccer, golf, and playground activities. The even surface and impact-absorbing quality make it ideal for athletic fields, offering a safe, professional-grade playing experience.

Do the panels have a different feel over the joints or ribs?
Answer: UBS panels are designed to interlock seamlessly, so there is no noticeable difference in feel over the joints or ribs. This ensures a smooth, consistent surface for sports, playgrounds, or other uses, with no uneven areas to disrupt play or movement.

How is the ball bounce?
Answer: UBS panels provide a consistent and responsive ball bounce, making them ideal for sports like basketball, soccer, and golf. The stable, even surface ensures that the ball behaves predictably, which is crucial for competitive play and skill development.

Why are panels better to putt on than a rock base?
Answer: UBS panels create a smooth, consistent surface that does not shift or settle over time, unlike a rock base. This provides a more accurate putting experience, replicating the conditions of a professional green.

Applications and Compatibility

What are some of the applications?
Answer: UBS is versatile and can be used for sports fields, playgrounds, rooftops, pet areas, and landscape enhancements. It’s suitable for both residential and commercial applications, providing a durable and adaptable surface.

Where can we build a field with UBS?
Answer: UBS panels can be installed in diverse locations, including rooftops, playgrounds, residential lawns, sports fields, and commercial spaces. Their versatility and lightweight design make them suitable for nearly any application requiring a stable, resilient surface.

Can UBS be used indoors?
Answer: Yes, UBS is suitable for indoor installations, such as gyms, playrooms, and recreational facilities, providing a stable, cushioned surface that performs well indoors.

Will the UltraBase panels follow the terrain of a yard?
Answer: UBS panels are designed to conform to natural yard contours, making them ideal for installations on uneven or sloped terrain. The flexible, interlocking design allows them to adapt to the natural layout of the landscape.

What characteristics are needed for good stabilization fabric?
Answer: A quality stabilization fabric should be durable, resistant to tearing, permeable for water flow, and effective in preventing soil erosion. These properties help maintain the stability and longevity of the UBS installation.

When is an impermeable fabric needed?
Answer: Impermeable fabric is recommended in situations where water entry into the underlying soil could lead to issues, such as in areas prone to frost heave or soil instability.

Maintenance and Warranty

What is the warranty of the base system?
Answer: UBS panels come with a comprehensive 10-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects and ensures long-term performance. Since the panels are installed beneath synthetic turf and protected from direct exposure to UV light, they are expected to last well beyond the warranty period in most environments. Court panels carry a 5-year warranty.

Are the panels reusable?
Answer: Yes, UBS panels are designed for easy disassembly and reuse, making them an economical and environmentally friendly choice. The interlocking system allows the panels to be moved and reassembled at a new location without compromising their structural integrity, providing excellent versatility and cost-effectiveness for future projects.

How does dog waste flow through the panels and turf?
Answer: UBS panels are highly pet-friendly, as they allow liquids, including pet waste, to drain quickly through the synthetic turf and panel system. This keeps the area clean and easy to maintain. Waste solids can be removed easily from the surface, while liquids flow through and are directed away, reducing odors and maintaining a sanitary environment.

Will the panels be too heavy for the roof?
Answer: UBS panels are lightweight, making them suitable for rooftop installations, especially when compared to traditional rock bases. Each panel weighs significantly less than gravel or sand bases, reducing the load on the roof structure and making them ideal for rooftop landscaping or sports areas.

Can the panels be installed directly over the roof membrane?
Answer: Yes, UBS panels can be installed directly over a protective roof membrane, provided the roof membrane is designed for load-bearing applications. This setup is common in rooftop gardens, synthetic turf installations, and urban landscapes where a durable, yet lightweight, base is needed.