How to Lay Artificial Grass
Over the last few years, artificial grass has experienced a boom in popularity from those looking for a mud-free, low-maintenance lawn. However, despite the many benefits, some people may be put off an artificial lawn by the mistaken belief that the installation process is time-consuming and difficult.
In actual fact, installing artificial grass is much simpler than you’d think, even for those with no DIY or landscaping experience. So how do you lay an artificial lawn? Here at Artificial Lawn Supply, we’re here to talk you through the process.
Artifical Grass Installation Guide
- Take stock of what you need
- Remove the old lawn
- Prepare the surface
- Apply a geotextile membrane
- Lay the artifical grass
- Trim away any excess
- Ensure neat joins
- Add finishing touches
Do you need to prepare the ground for artificial grass?
Yes, you do need to prepare the ground for artificial grass. Just like a house relies on strong foundations, your artificial lawn must be laid on a durable, smooth surface for it to stand the test of time; any stones, bumps or uneven terrain will result in an unnatural appearance and create problems later down the line. The old lawn must be completely removed and then the surface can be levelled and a sub-base added.
What is the best base for an artificial lawn?
Here at Artificial Lawn Supply, we recommend a crushed granite sub-base for your next artificial lawn installation. This is because, when compacted, it ensures a firm, level foundation that supports drainage. However, if your garden is newly built or the surface didn’t have natural grass or paving previously then a sub-base of MOT Type 1 might be a better choice as this provides additional strength and reduces the risk of sinkage.
Step-by-step artificial lawn installation
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Take stock of what you need
To ensure your artificial lawn installation goes as smoothly as possible, it’s important to have all the right tools on hand, as well as enough turf, jointing materials and geotextile membrane. It’s best to measure your garden and calculate in advance how much of everything you’ll need in advance to avoid wastage or unexpected shortages.
If you’re not sure what your project requires, don’t hesitate to give us a call for some advice. We also supply a range of fitting accessories to help with installation.
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Remove the old lawn
Next, you’ll need to clear the surface to make way for your new turf. This requires a bit of hard work and physical effort as you’ll need to use a spade – or a turf cutting machine if you have access to one – to excavate the existing lawn.
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Prepare the surface
As we’ve mentioned above, you’ll need to lay an appropriate sub-base to ensure an even surface; this should be at a depth of approximately 15mm to 50mm. If there are no perimeters for your new lawn, this is also when you’ll need to install your artificial grass edgings – make sure this is put in at your finished level.
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Apply a geotextile membrane
Once the sub-base is properly compacted, we recommend laying a geotextile membrane; this will prevent weed growth and ensure your new lawn lasts. This is a simple enough task; simply unroll the membrane and tightly apply it to the base with nails, cutting away any excess as you go.
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Lay the artificial grass
Next, comes the main step in the process; laying your new grass. It’s best to take your time and properly plan this stage to ensure your artificial lawn looks its best.
Unroll the grass so that it’s nice and flat and then, ideally, leave it for 24 hours so that any creases fall out. Then, lay the grass over the membrane in a way that minimises the need for cutting; if you have to join two pieces of lawn together then ensure the pile is running in the same direction. It’s generally advised to start laying the grass from the longest straight edge.
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Trim away any excess
Using a sharp Stanley knife, trim away any excess grass to ensure a snug fit.
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Ensure neat joins
If you’ve had to use more than one piece of grass for your new lawn, take your time to ensure the joins are neat and barely visible. Once you’ve made sure that the pile direction is facing the same way, fold back the pieces of grass and cut around three stitches from each one; then, lay each section flat to ensure both edges meet in a straight line.
Fold back the edges again and apply the joining tape to the surface, shiny side down, along the length of the join. Position it in such a way that the edges of each piece will meet in the centre of the tape. Then, apply adhesive in a zigzag pattern along the tape and carefully fold the pieces of grass into the wet adhesive. Smooth over the seam and apply weight to ensure it sticks properly.
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Add finishing touches
A sand infill adds stability to the artificial grass fibres and ensures a perfect finish. Brush in a layer of silica kiln sand using a non-metal, stiff-bristled brush, going against the pile direction to help each blade stand upright.
- Enjoy!
Now you’re free to kick back, relax and enjoy your new lawn!
If you’d like to know more about how to lay astro turf, get in touch with the friendly team here at Artificial Lawn Supply – we’re happy to provide detailed advice and instructions. We supply an extensive range of both premium and budget artificial grass, along with a variety of fitting accessories to ensure your installation goes as smoothly as possible.
If you don’t feel comfortable installing the lawn yourself, our sister company offers an installation service for customers throughout the South East.
Our products are available nationwide – simply place an order online with us today.
