Whether you’re looking to replace your natural grass or add a fresh level of beauty and ease to your balcony, patio or lawn, installing artificial grass is an easy procedure.
To start making the base, you need to prepare it by flattening out any dirt and removing any vegetation. Next add a layer sharp sand and a geotextile membrane to the base to create a level surface to your new turf.
Laying the grass
It is crucial to properly lay artificial grass before installing it. This includes removing weeds and grass, preparing the ground and then installing the turf.
Before you lay the artificial grass, spray the area with a broadspectrum herbicide that kills the existing vegetation (grass and weeds) in the space. This could take between two and four weeks, but it will make the process much easier once you begin lay the sod.
If you don’t take care to remove the old grass and weeds, you’ll run the risk of developing drainage issues or weed problems. These could cause problems when you try to finish the installation. It’s important to be careful before putting in the sod.
When you’re ready to lay the sod over the surface and then roll out the artificial turf. It’s best to place it in a direction that is directionally, meaning that the blades bend toward your home, rather than standing straight up.
Join the Grass
Artificial grass must be properly cut and finished to look its best. This means removing the old surface and then applying infill.
Preparing your yard for the new grass will require you to get rid of all weeds and stones and ensure that it is strong enough to support the turf. This will require a amount of compaction, but it is worth it for good drainage.
Once you have the base ready then roll your grass flat. Then fold the grass 30-40cm along each side. Then trim 20-30mm from each edge by cutting in between the tufts.
A good rule of thumb is to cut in by at minimum 3 tufts.
Now that you have the two pieces of artificial grass lying adjacent to each other, join them using joint tape, shiny-side-down along the entire length. Attach the tape to either side using nails or adhesive.
Trimming the Grass
The trimming of your lawn is an essential step regardless of whether you are installing artificial grass for the first time or planning an extensive landscaping project. This will ensure that your lawn looks great and is well-maintained.
You can trim your turf in two ways either vertically (called “edging”) and horizontally (called “trimming”). You can trim your turf along the borders of patios, driveways, and beds.
When trimming the turf, make sure to avoid shortening it so as to allow weeds to be introduced into the soil. The turf that touches the ground can encourage the weeds to germinate and grow faster.
Use a blade for cutting to cut the turf as evenly and precisely as you can. Work slowly and carefully to ensure that the cuts are smooth and uniform.
Finalizing the Grass
Final steps in installing artificial grass includes finishing the base layer before securing it to the ground. This is a crucial aspect of the process and must be done with proper attention to detail.
Rake the area to level it and then rake away any large stones or high points. This is particularly important if your installation is located on a sloped area.
For a smoother appearance, make sure you brush the turf blades back and smooth the infill layer. This will ensure that the turf appears natural and is laid flat.
Then, spread the grass out on the base, making sure that all adjacent sheets are facing the same way. This is essential to ensure good appearance and stops grass from cutting in different directions.
Make relief cuts if there are trees or other objects within the space to allow the synthetic turf to stretch around them. The cuts should be made to the tree or obstruction’s base and then run from the bottom ascending.
