Synthetic grass is a useful landscape material perfect for sports fields, putting greens, dog parks, and backyards. Installing artificial turf in your own yard might seem convoluted and tricky, but the process is quite simple. Follow these steps to installing synthetic grass as you get to work.
Before You Begin
The first step to DIY artificial grass installation is removing existing materials. Demolish any soil, weeds, or aboveground substances that may hinder the installation. Rough-grade the area to expose any electric wiring, irrigation, or pipes. If you have sprinklers, cap them at the pipe level to avoid leakage. Relocating the sprinklers and modifying existing irrigation lines for extra drainage can help. You must also install a bender board to provide a clean line that separates plants from the turf areas. Skipping any of these before project steps is a crucial mistake many DIY installers make, so be aware.
Preparing and Compacting the Base
When you’re preparing the base, create a special mixture of gravel and sand to allow for proper drainage. Three inches in depth is an ideal metric for non-pet landscape installation. Distribute and level the base to avoid sloping or uneven surfaces. Then, vibrate, tamper, and roll the gravel to establish a solid base. This ensures no issues when you’re driving the nails and installing the turf.
Installing the Turf
Trim the turf to properly fit your area. Leave an inch overhang along the edges for tucking. Use the right seaming tool, and align the pieces. Avoid any overlap, as this can cause discoloration in the seam. Install the nails six inches apart and ¾ inches down along the edge. It’s also important not to drive the nails too far down, as this can create dimples. Be sure to use U-nails, which can hide within the grass blades and still secure the turf into the ground.
Tucking the Edges and Applying Filler
Tucking the turf means hiding the edges against hardscape or borders with a wonder bar. This gives a clean look to the installation. Afterwards, use a power brush to pull the grain and make the blades stand up. Apply the infill, which is antibacterial material that, like sand, is child- and pet-friendly. Evenly spread the granules throughout the turf to balance the blades and give the turf more weight.
Final Groom
The final step to installing synthetic grass is a final groom. Use a power brush on the turf to lightly force the infill granules into its base. Remove any excess debris from the turf.
