How to install artificial grass
Ready to DIY your space? Here we have a step-by-step guide video you can follow for how to install artificial grass. We have instructions typed out below our videos as well. We also have the very awesome video from BYOT who we partnered up to give you another perspective of the DIY aspects of artificial turf. Detailed and educational is what we had in mind when creating our DIY How To Install Artificial Grass videos.
We make what we sell! We install what we make! Smart Turf artificial grass manufactures landscape synthetic turf ideal for residential and commercial use. We have the perfect fake grass for residential homes, community parks, commercial applications, and even indoor putting greens.
Your definitive DIY guide to how to install artificial grass
Ground Clearing / Tear Out
Clear the work area of all unwanted tree roots, mulch, large rocks, and any remaining construction debris obstructions. Utilize sod cutters, shovels and pick axes to remove grass and vegetation.
Underground hazards
Irrigation and electrical lines may be located just under the surface of the project area. Locate and cap off or remove all unwanted sprinkler heads. Turn on irrigation to verify everything works correctly before you start. Do the same with any existing electrical feature.
Base Preparation
As we begin the sub-base process its recommended to lay down the weed barrier cloth first. Installing the base surface is critical to
maintain the stability and integrity of the turf system. First layer is 2"-3" of Class 2 Road Base.
Synthetic Turf Layout
Make sure to measure the project area and carefully design the layout to minimize the number of seams in the turf. Unroll the synthetic grass and stretch across the top of the prepared base. Do not drag across. If the synthetic turf has a wrinkle; allow it to acclimate in the sun.
Landscape and playground turf comes in 15 ft wide rolls, putting green material comes in 12 ft wide rolls. Due to the natural direction of the grass blades, the turf must be laid out in the same direction.
Cutting the turf to fit
The artificial grass can be cut around your existing landscape whether it is a perfect square, or a winding path that is bordered by rocks.
The best method is to lay the grass out and trace from the top where you'll be making your cuts. There are 2 different tools you'll need for this process:
1) Long Pile Carpet Cutter.
2) Carpet knife.
All cuts must be made from back side of synthetic turf to see the stitch rows.
Secure the turf
Secure the turf by staking the edges with 5"-6" nails. Space the nails along the perimeter edges approximately 3"-6" apart. Repeat the process for treated lumber, bender board, or poly board around the border.
Seaming the turf panels
A straight edge is required when seaming two synthetic turf cuts together. Make sure the stitch lines match so the seams will be virtually invisible.
Another option available is the "S" cut method using a custom stencil. This is a more advanced process but will give you the same natural appearance. Once you have your seams cut and in place, pull both pieces of turf back exposing the sub base. Place the seam tape with half of the tape under each cut. Use a synthetic turf adhesive and apply to the seam tape. Fold the two sections of artificial grass over seaming material to form one seamless piece. An alternative to seaming artificial grass together is to use 4" 20d or 5" - 6" 40d nails along the seam both sides with 3"- 4" spacing.
Smartfill® Infill
Round Silica Sand is the standard infill for artificial turf. Proper infill installation is critical to maintaining your artificial grass system. 1-3 lbs. per sq. ft. Infill helps to protect the synthetic grass from the elements while maintaining the blade structure and level design.
Spread infill material evenly utilizing a drop spreader (the type commonly used to spread grass seed), or a flat. Do not attempt to install the infill material while the synthetic grass or the infill material is wet. Once all sand is spread evenly on top of turf it will need to be broomed into the turf fibers. Use a power broom to brush up turf fibers and let the sand work down in between the turf blades. When the infill process is complete, water the entire area evenly with a hose to settle the material.
Clean up
No job would be complete without the proper clean up.
You can use a blower, rake, brush or broom to clean up the grass, as well as water. And thats how to install artificial grass.