Fitting Artificial Lawn Made Easy

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Top, Close-up View of Artificial Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Top, Close-up View of Artificial Grass

Fitting an artificial lawn is a straightforward process, but it does require some planning and preparation.

To start, you'll need to measure your lawn area accurately to determine how many rolls of artificial turf you'll need. This will depend on the size of your lawn and the type of turf you've chosen.

A standard roll of artificial turf is typically 2m x 25m, so you'll need to calculate how many of these you'll need to cover your entire lawn.

Preparation

Before you start fitting your artificial lawn, it's essential to prepare the base properly. This involves laying down a weed barrier cloth to prevent any unwanted growth underneath.

Measure your garden to ensure you have enough space for the new turf, and allow for some extra length as you'll lose some during trimming and fitting.

For a stable and even surface, start by importing 100mm deep of 20-30mm clean crushed angular stone.

Related reading: Light Fitting

Plan and Prepare

Top view of anonymous young male in casual clothes sitting on wooden floor with photo camera and coffee cup and pointing on paper map while planning trip route
Credit: pexels.com, Top view of anonymous young male in casual clothes sitting on wooden floor with photo camera and coffee cup and pointing on paper map while planning trip route

Before you start your project, it's essential to plan and prepare properly. Measure your garden in square meters if possible, and remember to add some extra length to account for trimming and fitting.

Take your time to research and gather information about your project. I spent about 6 months researching turf before making a decision, and it paid off in the end.

Get a professional estimate to understand the costs involved. A local landscape design company estimated $11,000 for a 700 sq ft area, which gave me a realistic idea of what to expect.

With a solid plan in place, you'll be better equipped to tackle the project and make the most of your DIY skills.

For your interest: Lawn Care Diy Plan

Base Preparation

Laying down a weed barrier cloth is a crucial step in the sub-base process. This helps prevent weeds from growing up through the turf system.

The first layer of the base surface should be 2"-3" of Class 2 Road Base. This provides a stable foundation for the turf system.

If this caught your attention, see: Do It Yourself Underground Sprinkler System

Credit: youtube.com, Preparing the Base for Artificial Grass - Step 2

Research and planning are key to a successful turf installation. An expert's opinion can help solidify your decision, as it did for someone who settled on artificial turf after six months of research.

Installing a 100mm deep layer of 20-30mm clean crushed angular stone is essential for creating a solid base. This type of stone binds well and provides a stable surface.

Compacting the stone with a whacker plate and leveling it is a must. This ensures a smooth surface for the artificial grass.

The Before

Before you start preparing for anything, it's essential to understand your current situation. You can't plan a move without knowing where you're starting from, and you can't create a budget without knowing your income and expenses.

Most people start by making a list of their goals and priorities. This helps them focus on what's truly important and allocate their resources accordingly.

A well-organized workspace can make a huge difference in productivity. Cluttered desks and messy rooms can lead to mental clutter and decreased focus, making it harder to stay on track.

Exterior of contemporary residential cottage house with green lawn in yard under cloudy sky
Credit: pexels.com, Exterior of contemporary residential cottage house with green lawn in yard under cloudy sky

The average person spends around 2 hours per day searching for lost items. This can be a significant waste of time, especially if you're trying to prepare for a big project or event.

In order to make progress, you need to have a clear idea of what you're working towards. This means setting specific, measurable, and achievable goals.

Order Materials

Ordering the right materials is crucial for a successful artificial lawn installation. I ordered the STR Synthetic Turf 80 oz. Face Weight 1-3/4 in. Field Green/Olive Green/Clover Green Blades Green/Tan from a local landscape supply store, Pete Rose, Inc.

To calculate the quantity of turf needed, consider the roll lengths and how to minimize waste. The rolls come in 15′ lengths, so plan accordingly to get the right amount.

I also ordered infill sand, seam tape for the seams, paver base, paver sand, galvanized nails, and bricks for the border. These materials will help create a solid base for the turf.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Green & Grow Lawn Care

Credit: youtube.com, How To Lay Synthetic Turf - Bunnings Warehouse

When ordering the base layers, consider the type and quantity needed. In this case, paver base and paver sand were required to create a stable surface.

Be sure to factor in the tools needed to trim the turf edges. Box cutters were used to trim the edges accurately and ensure a seamless fit against the border.

Installation

To install artificial turf, start by laying out each roll of grass with the pile facing the house, allowing an overhang of about 100mm. This will ensure a uniform appearance.

First, join two pieces of artificial grass with seam tape and adhesive, or use PST Lawns' self-adhesive seam tape for a secure fit. The pile should always be facing the house for the best results.

You'll also need to cut the turf to fit around your existing landscape, whether it's a square or winding path bordered by rocks. To do this, lay the grass out and trace the cuts from the top, using a long pile carpet cutter and a carpet knife.

A unique perspective: Artificial House Plants Ikea

DIY Grass Installation Guide

Credit: youtube.com, HOW TO INSTALL SYNTHETIC GRASS // DIY Artificial Grass

To install artificial turf, you'll need to prepare the site by laying out each roll of grass, ensuring the pile of each piece falls in the same direction with an overhang of approx. 100mm.

First, lay out each roll of grass ensuring the pile of each piece falls in the same direction allowing an overhang of approx. 100mm. For best results, the pile should always be laid facing the house.

Secure the turf by staking the edges with 5"-6" nails, spacing them along the perimeter edges approximately 3"-6" apart. This will keep the turf in place.

To cut the turf to fit around existing landscape features, lay the grass out and trace from the top where you'll be making your cuts. The best method is to use a long pile carpet cutter and a carpet knife.

Seaming two synthetic turf cuts together requires a straight edge to match the stitch lines. You can also use the "S" cut method with a custom stencil for a more advanced process.

Secure the turf by staking the edges with 5"-6" nails, spacing them along the perimeter edges approximately 3"-6" apart. Repeat the process for treated lumber, bender board, or poly board around the border.

Here's an interesting read: Best Time to Irrigate Lawn

Smartfill Infill

Credit: youtube.com, Spreading Infill | How to Install Artificial Turf

Smartfill Infill is a critical component of artificial turf installation. It's essential to use the right amount, which is 1-3 lbs. per sq. ft.

Round Silica Sand is the standard infill material for artificial turf. This type of sand helps protect the synthetic grass from the elements.

You'll need a drop spreader or a flat to spread the infill material evenly across the turf. Don't attempt to install the infill material if the synthetic grass or the infill material is wet.

Once the sand is spread, use a power broom to brush up the turf fibers and let the sand work its way down between the blades. This will help the infill material settle properly.

After completing the infill process, give the area a good watering with a hose to settle the material.

Laying the Lawn

Laying the lawn is a crucial step in fitting artificial grass, and it's essential to get it right. Lay out each roll of grass ensuring the pile of each piece falls in the same direction, allowing an overhang of approx. 100mm.

Credit: youtube.com, Install Artificial Turf over soil

For best results, always lay the pile facing the house, so when you look from the house, you look into the pile. This will create a natural and inviting appearance.

You'll need to join two pieces of artificial grass with seam tape and adhesive, or use PST Lawns self-adhesive seam tape for a more convenient option. Make sure to measure the project area and carefully design the layout to minimize the number of seams in the turf.

Unroll the synthetic grass and stretch it across the top of the prepared base, avoiding any dragging or wrinkling. If the synthetic turf has a wrinkle, allow it to acclimate in the sun for a smooth finish.

Landscape and playground turf comes in 15 ft wide rolls, while putting green material comes in 12 ft wide rolls. Due to the natural direction of the grass blades, the turf must be laid out in the same direction.

Additional reading: Natural Lawn Care Products

The Benefits of

Credit: youtube.com, Thinking about installing artificial grass? The pros and cons

You can let your kids play in any weather without worrying about mud and mess. The yard is now a complete dream come true.

Artificial lawn is much cleaner than traditional grass, eliminating the need to clean up mud prints and mess. It's also easier to maintain, as you won't need to seed, fertilize, or mow all spring and summer long.

The turf is beautiful and natural-looking, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. The kids can lay down to read right on the turf, and you can walk back and forth to the clubhouse without putting on shoes.

It's much softer and more comfortable than traditional grass, making it perfect for outdoor play and relaxation. The kids can take toys out and sit in the middle of the lawn to play, and you can enjoy a mess-free yard all year round.

Consider reading: Artificial Landscape Grass

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I put down before installing artificial grass?

For a stable and well-draining surface, install a 2-3 inch layer of paver base, a compactable mixture of small stones and sand, before artificial grass. This provides better drainage and a solid foundation for your artificial turf installation.

Tom Tate

Lead Writer

Tom Tate is a seasoned writer and editor, with years of experience creating compelling content for online audiences. He has a talent for distilling complex topics into clear and concise language that engages readers on a deep level. In addition to his writing skills, Tom is also an expert in digital marketing and web design.

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