With the artificial turf market expected to hit $114.3 billion by 2028, it’s clear that many prefer its aesthetic and low-maintenance appeal over natural grass. And who can blame them? Requiring minimal upkeep and zero water, synthetic turf gives you a well-manicured lawn year-round without regular mowing and fertilization.
Plus, since it doesn’t require herbicides and pesticides, artificial turf is an eco-conscious, safer option for pets, kids, and the environment. In this guide, we’ll list a step-by-step guide to smooth artificial turf installation, ensuring that your backyard green oasis stays clear of uneven patches and discoloration.
Whether you’re searching for “artificial turf installation near me” to find local experts or planning to DIY, site preparation is a staple. For soil installation, start by clearing all vegetation, debris, and weeds from the area, along with any large stones that may lead to uneven installation. On average, homeowners should clear 3-4 inches of soil when preparing their lawn for artificial turf installation.
But how to install artificial grass on concrete? The process is almost similar except for the preparation and leveling phases. When working with concrete, you need to clean and smooth out the floor using a stiff broom. While not necessary, you may also employ a jet wash at this stage to prevent unevenness under the turf.
For those considering other options, such as traditional lawn maintenance, you might want to explore the pros and cons of tractor mowing vs. traditional lawn mowing to make an informed decision.
Leveling comes after the preparation phase, setting up the groundwork for optimal drainage, longevity, and stability of the artificial turf installation. Start by using a straight edge (level or long wooden board) or bubble level on the surface to identify high and low points. This points out areas that need adjustment and helps you determine how much leveling is required.
Then, use a rake or shovel to redistribute soil evenly across the low spots, leading to an even surface. If you’re working on a concrete artificial turf installation, fill in the uneven patches using fillers or a mortar paste.
After you’ve cleared and leveled the area, the next step is adding the base layer. Serving as the foundation for your artificial turf installation, the base helps provide structural support. This step is essential for those searching “how to install artificial grass on soil.” Why, you may wonder. Well, since the soil surface regularly undergoes contraction and expansion, the synthetic turf may experience wrinkles and an uneven surface over time.
Therefore, your best bet is to use a combination of decomposed granite and crushed rock to form a stable, permeable base. Like soil, concrete surfaces are also exposed to uneven ridges, cracks, and bumps, which may be noticeable on your synthetic turf surface. Thus, you should add a layer of foam padding or shock-absorbent material on concrete floors to mask these bumps.
If you’re considering professional services for larger landscaping projects, tractor bush hog services might be worth exploring to clear and prepare large areas efficiently.
Once the base is set up, it’s time for the artificial turf installation (in literal terms). Roll out the turf rolls over the designated space, ensuring it fits snugly without any bare spots. Usually, synthetic grass has a grass blade or “grain” pattern, so make sure all rolls are laid in the same direction. This gives a consistent look.
After the laying phase, you’ll likely have to customize the artificial turf according to the dimensions of your yard. Once you’ve let your turf sit for about an hour, lift the edges and trip the excess area using turf scissors or a sharp knife. To join adjacent turf rolls, use self-adhesive tape or secure the edges with landscape staples.
After you finish the artificial turf installation, the next step is to enhance its strength and durability to stand the test of time. This is where infill comes in, a granular substance added to the turf surface to provide cushioning and stability. An infill also impacts the overall feel of your grass by helping its blades stay upright and keeping it from wrinkling.
There are many types of infills, from premium zeolite infills to budget-friendly picks like rubber granules and silica sand. Hence, take the time to choose your infill wisely since it greatly impacts the overall turf installation cost. After you’ve selected one, spread up to 2 pounds infill evenly across each square foot of turf using a power brush or broom. Make sure that it penetrates the fibers and gives ample support.
To achieve that well-manicured look, brush the blades of your turf using a broom or power brush. This gives a lively appearance to the grass, making it appear just as green and natural as real alternatives. Plus, check around the corners to ensure that edges are secure and the grass wraps around any borders.
When done correctly, the above steps represent the cheapest way to lay artificial grass. The catch here is to prepare your ground well and take the time to level it in order to avoid any wrinkles or obstacles in the turf. Whether you’re thinking of a DIY project or seeking professional guidance, investing in expert installation pays off in the long run.
So, if you’re looking for a smooth, seamless turf installation that lasts a decade, look no further than Safari Landscapes. Helping countless homeowners and entrepreneurs with reliable landscaping services, the company is home to a skilled team with over 50 years of experience. So, bring your outdoor vision to life with Safari Landscapes today!
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