How To Lay Artificial Grass
Intro
Every home owner wants a nice green garden for the visual look. Today I can tell you it is more achievable installing artificial grass for your convenience. Artificial grass installation is not as difficult as you may think.
To have the perfect lawn! Are you tired of mowing, edging, weeding & fertilizing your grass every few weeks throughout the year.
Laying artificial grass is a positive solution for you.
Artificial grass for a home owner has a low maintenance option that looks like a beautiful green ocean in your yard.
It is pretty easy to maintain while looking so much better than real grass since there are no visible patches or foot prints or weather conditions.
I will give you some vital tips on how to lay artificial grass down by yourself in this step by step guide blog.
How Is Artificial Grass Laid
Step 1. Measure the area
The first step in laying artificial grass is to measure the area you want it down. Measure the width & length of lawn or area then multply the two values to get the square root. This guides you to how much artificial grass needs purchasing. Always order more than needed so when cutting to fit the actual measurement you won’t need to go back to the shop for more.
Step 2. Prepare the surface
This step is where you lay artificial grass down on the surface. Remove grass, weeds or debris that is visible. Use a turf cutter to remove the grass which is the top layer. Followed with a herbicide to kill off any remaining weeds growing or grass fibres.
Next, level the surface clearing all forms of rocks, sand and stone base from the area to level surface. These obstructions need to be removed as they can damage the new artificial grass. Use a rake for the rocks & stones but if necessary you may add a layer of gravel or crushed stone as a stable base layer.
This prevents the grass from sinking or shifting over time.
Step 3. Install the base
This is the foundation for artificial grass. Lay down a weed barrier or textile base fabric over the prepared surface. This stops weeds from growing through the artificial grass. The fabric can overlap 6 inches from the seams.
Next, add a layer of crushed stone or sand for the base. Spread equally across the surface then use something like a compactor to pack it down. Make sure to use enough sand or stone for this section as the surface needs to be level.
Step 4. Lay the artificial grass
Take your time and unroll the artificial grass letting it rest for a few hours to take out all the wrinkles and creases on the turf. Once this is done it will make the process easier to install.
Next, place the new artificial grass over the prepared area & cut to your measured size from step 1. Make sure you leave extra turf on the edges for trimming. It is important the artificial turf is positioned correctly otherwise you will not be able to make any adjustments after.
Step 5. Trim and secure edges
Use a utility knife to cut the edges along the edges of installation area. Follow the contour precisely to create a clean edge.
Secure the edges of the artificial grass using tools such as adhesives and landscape staples. If using adhesives make sure it is dry before you move onto the next step.
Step 6. Add Infill
Infill is a material used for artificial lawn to assist keeping the shape of new lawn and helping it stand upright. Common types of infill are sand, rubber and synthentic materials. The infill needs to be spread evenly over the surface of the artificial turf preferably using a broom or spreader. Work the infill into grass so there is an even spread.
Infill is dependant on the type of artificial grass you have and the number of foot traffic it will receive.
Step 7. Brush the grass
Once all the steps have been complete in this last step it is time to brush. Use a stiff brush to brush the fibres straight upright. This will give it a more natural grass look.
What Is Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass is a synthetic grass or turf, which is an alternative grass. Artificial grass has been designed to replicate how real grass feels with the exception of it being low maintenance cost.
This is grass is made up of materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene and nylon which is woven into the backing of turf. These materials are coated with rubber or latex to give the grass a more natural feel.
This 21st century new technology grass is often used in commercial landscaping, athletic fields, residential lawns and playgrounds. For people who want low cost and maintenance it is becoming a highly recommended turf environmentally instead of grass.
Some of the advantages of artificial grass over natural grass is it requires low maintenance. It needs no water, no mowing or fertilizing. Chemicals are not needed to be layed down on it. One of the best benefits of artificial grass is how durable it is lasting long for years under extreme conditions.
My overall conclusion is artificial grass is a versatile and practical option for many applications. Used in a variety of spaces to improve the functuality.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Artificial Grass Last For ?
Artificial grass can last for years which is all dependant upon the quality of turf you have purchased. Also whether or not you have layed an uneven surface which will decrease the durability of the sub base.
Maintaining all year round with regular checking the edges and entire area ensuring a regular brushing to keep the natural turf looking healthy.
Can I Install Artificial Grass Myself ?
Yes you can install artificial grass yourself following the step by step instructions.
How Do I Clean My Artificial Grass ?
This is process is so much easier than natural grass as all you really need is a brush to lightly brush off any leafs.
A blower device which isn’t as popular due to price but this leaf blower is mainly used on commercial properties. For any animals or pets that leaves droppings on the new artificial lawn you can use a hose to clean it up.
I would say to avoid using all harsh detergents due to the material of the artificial grass which could cause more harm than good.
