If you’re looking to replace natural grass or add an additional layer of beauty and comfort to your patio, balcony or lawn installing artificial grass is a simple process.
First clean the base by taking away all dirt and vegetation. Then apply a layer of sharp sand and a geotextile membrane to the base to make a level surface for your new turf.
Laying the Grass
When you install artificial turf it is important to lay it in a proper manner. This involves removing the existing grass and weeds making the ground ready, and then laying the turf.
Spray the area with a broadspectrum insecticide before you begin to lay artificial grass. It can take up four weeks for this process however it will make your job easier once you get started with laying the sod.
You are at risk of having drainage issues or weed issues if you don’t remove the old grass and weeds. These could cause problems when you try to finish the installation. It’s important to be careful before putting in the sod.
Once you’re all set to lay the sod, you can roll out the artificial grass on the surface you’ve prepared. It is best to lay the sod in a direction, meaning that the blades should curve towards your home and not stand straight up.
Join the Grass
If you want your artificial grass to appear as beautiful as it can be, it needs to be properly cut and finished. That means removing the old surface and putting infill.
To prepare your ground for the new grass, remove any weeds or rocks from the surface and make sure it is adequate to allow the turf to be supported. This will require a good amount of compaction, but it is worthwhile for the benefits of good drainage.
After the base is ready and your grass is laid flat, roll it out. Then fold the grass 30-40cm along each side. Then trim 20-30mm from the edge cutting between small tufts.
It is an excellent rule of thumb to cut in by at most 3 tufts.
If you have two pieces of artificial grass that are parallel to one another connect them using joint tape shiny side down throughout their length. Secure the tape at one end using nails or adhesive.
Trimming the Grass
The trimming of the lawn is a crucial step, whether you are installing artificial grass for the first time or planning the big landscaping project. This will ensure that your lawn looks great and is maintained.
There are two ways to trim your turf vertically (called “edging”) or vertically (“trimming”). You can trim your turf along the edges of driveways, patios and beds.
Do not cut the turf too short that weeds may penetrate the soil. The turf that is touching the ground may encourage the weeds to sprout and grow faster.
With a razor blade, cut the turf as evenly as you can, making sure not to leave any wrinkles or gaps. To ensure smooth and consistent cuts, work slowly and with care.
Finishing the Grass
The final step to install artificial turf is finishing the base layer and securing the turf to the ground. This is an important part of the process and must be carried out with care and treatment.
Rake away any large rocks and high spots. This is especially crucial if your construction is located on a sloped area.
For a smoother finish, you should brush the blades of turf back and smooth the infill layer. This will ensure that the turf looks natural and is laid flat.
Then, roll the grass on the base. Make sure all sheets are facing the same direction. This is vital for a neat appearance and helps prevent grass from cutting in various directions.
If there are trees or other obstructions within the space, cut relief cuts to allow the synthetic grass to be able to bend around them. These should touch the base of the obstruction or tree and then run from the bottom to the top.
