Transforming your outdoor space with artificial grass can create a stunning, low-maintenance lawn that enhances your home’s curb appeal. This article will guide you through the essential steps for a successful DIY installation. From excavation to anchoring, every phase is designed to ensure a beautiful, long-lasting result you can be proud of.

You’ll learn how to properly prepare the area, select the right materials, and apply effective techniques that make the installation process straightforward. With clear instructions and helpful tips, you’ll find that achieving a picturesque lawn is more attainable than you might think. Enjoy the satisfaction of your handiwork as you step back and admire your newly landscaped yard!

How to DIY Install Artificial Grass – Key Points

Installing artificial grass can be a fun and rewarding project that can transform your outdoor space into a lush, green oasis. Whether you’re looking to create a beautiful lawn for your family to enjoy or a low-maintenance yard that will impress your neighbors, this guide from Purchase Green Artificial Grass gives you all the tips and tricks you need. Let’s dive into the essential steps of the installation process!

Excavation

Remove Existing Soil, Weeds, and Rocks

The first phase in your artificial grass installation is excavation. This involves removing any preexisting soil, weeds, plants, and rocks from the area where you plan to lay the turf. You might find it handy to rent a roto tiller or a sod cutter for larger areas, or for smaller projects, a pick or shovel will do the trick. Clearing this area not only sets the stage for your new grass but also gives you a clean slate to work on.

Recommended Excavation Depth: Minimum 3 Inches, Varies by Soil Type (2-6 Inches)

Purchase Green recommends excavating to a bare minimum depth of three inches below your finished grade. However, this depth can vary based on soil type and application. For instance, if your soil is firm or rocky, you may only need to dig down 2 to 3 inches. Conversely, sandy or clay-like soils might require up to 6 inches. Excavation is essential for creating a long-lasting installation because native soil naturally expands and contracts with temperature changes, which could lead to turf wrinkles if not addressed.

Excavation Prevents Soil Expansion Issues Causing Turf Wrinkles

By properly excavating the area, you can create a stable and firm foundation for your turf. Without this step, the continuous expansion and contraction of native soil can stretch the turf over time, leading to unwanted wrinkles and a less appealing look for your beautiful new grass.

Perimeter Board Installation

Define Perimeter with Optional Installation

After excavation, it’s a good idea to install a perimeter product to define the edges of your turf. While this step is optional, it’s highly recommended to create a clean and professional-looking finish.

Types: Landscape Bend-a-Board for Non-Concrete Areas, Subgrade Bend-a-Board for Constructed Restraints

There are two main types of perimeter boards you can use. The landscape bend-a-board is ideal for areas without concrete edges, as it helps define and support the perimeter. On the other hand, subgrade bend-a-board works alongside constructed restraints, such as sidewalks and patios. It serves a dual purpose by creating a neat appearance and enhancing the durability of the perimeter.

Use Screws and Stakes for Durability

To ensure your perimeter board stays firmly in place, use screws and stakes during installation. By securing the boards with around every 12 to 18 inches using screws, you’ll create a sturdy border that will stand up to play and foot traffic. Hammering stakes into position ensures that your boards won’t shift, providing a solid framework for your new lawn.

Subbase Selection

Common Subbase Types: Class Two Road Base, Crushed Miscellaneous Base, Cement Treated Base, Decomposed Granite

Selecting the right subbase is crucial, as it forms the foundation for your artificial grass. Common options include class two road base, crushed miscellaneous base, cement treated base, and decomposed granite. Each has its advantages, so it’s good to choose one based on your particular needs.

Road Base is Cost-Effective but Less Smooth; Decomposed Granite is Pricer but Offers Better Drainage

Road base tends to be the most cost-effective option, allowing for easy compaction. However, you might notice that it doesn’t provide as smooth a surface and doesn’t drain as well as other options. If you’re aiming for a premium finish with excellent drainage capabilities, decomposed granite might be the better choice, albeit at a higher cost. Many installers also use a combination of both—road base for the bottom and decomposed granite on top for the best of both worlds.

Subbase Installation

Compact in 1-2 Inch Layers for Optimal Drainage

When installing your chosen subbase, it’s essential to compact it correctly to create a solid and stable foundation. Aim to compact in layers of 1 to 2 inches, ensuring optimal drainage and reducing the risk of settling over time.

Create Undulations for a Realistic Look and Maintain a 1-2% Slope for Water Runoff

Creating gentle undulations within your subbase can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your lawn. This slight variation can make your turf look more natural. Additionally, it’s important to maintain a 1-2% slope for water runoff; this helps prevent pooling and ensures that your lawn drains as intended.

Recommended Use of a Weed Barrier to Prevent Contamination

To further enhance your installation, consider using a weed barrier. Placing a fabric barrier between your native soil and the subbase helps prevent contamination, which is especially important if you have clay-heavy soils. Unroll the fabric, overlapping the edges by about six inches, and secure it down with flathead nails or sod staples.

Preparing the Artificial Grass

Unroll and Expose to Sunlight for 1-2 Hours to Relax the Material

Once you have prepared your area, it’s time to get your artificial grass ready for installation. Start by unrolling your turf and leaving it in the sunlight for about 1 to 2 hours. This warming process allows the backing to relax and helps the fibers stand up straight, making it easier to lay over the subbase while reducing any wrinkles that formed during shipping.

Rough Cuts and Orientation

Position Turf According to Visual Perspectives

After your turf has had some time to relax, position it over the installation area. Consider where the primary viewing angle will be when positioning your turf; this will ensure that it looks its best from the most common perspectives.

Orient Fibers Consistently to Maintain Uniformity

It’s also essential to orient the fibers consistently. Most artificial grass products have a grain to them, so make sure each piece faces the same direction. This attention to detail will create a uniform and polished appearance.

Rough Cut Edges, Leaving Extra Material for Final Fitting

Next, you’ll want to perform a rough cut of the edges. However, be sure to leave a couple of inches of excess material; this extra bit can be trimmed down later for the most precise fit.

Anchoring and Stretching

Secure Turf with Non-Galvanized Nails

Before you start seaming your artificial grass, secure it in place using non-galvanized nails. Starting with the top edge of the turf, place nails approximately one inch in from the outer perimeter and secure it every six inches. This initial anchoring creates a solid foundation upon which you’ll build.

Stretch Using Carpet Kicker to Prevent Wrinkles

To further ensure a wrinkle-free finish, you can stretch your turf using a carpet kicker. This tool will help you evenly distribute and tighten the turf across your installation site, allowing you to tuck in any loose areas as needed.

Dry Seaming

Align Multiple Pieces of Turf Prior to Securing

If your project involves multiple pieces of turf, you’ll want to align them before securing them down. This dry seaming technique allows you to freely position the pieces for optimal spacing and alignment.

Common Methods: In-Line Seams (Parallel to Stitch Rows) and Butt Seams (Perpendicular)

Two common methods for seaming are in-line seams, which run parallel to the stitch rows, and butt seams, which are cut perpendicular. In-line seams are typically easier for DIY installations and create cleaner lines between pieces.

Seaming Materials

Options Include Nails, Seaming Tape, and Glue

When it comes to securing your seams, you have several options. You can use nails, but more reliable methods include seaming tape and glue. These materials are designed to create sturdy connections that withstand wear and tear over time.

Tape and Glue Offer Stronger, More Durable Seams

For the most secure and durable seams, we recommend using tape or glue. These options provide stronger bonds, ensuring that your turf will hold up beautifully throughout its lifespan.

Fine Cutting Around the Perimeter

Prepare Turf for Final Trimming Based on the Type of Perimeter Setup

After your seams are secured, it’s time to prepare for final trimming around the perimeter. Depending on how you’ve set up your border, you might need to adjust how you cut your turf at the edges.

Use Nails for Securing Edges, Ensuring Proper Excess for Tucking into Gaps

When you’re finished cutting, use nails to secure the edges in place. Always leave a little excess material available—this way, you can tuck it into any gaps to create a seamless finish.

Final Tips

Ensure Proper Installation Techniques for Durability, Aesthetics, and Easy Maintenance

By following these installation techniques, you can ensure that your artificial grass looks great while remaining durable and manageable over the years to come.

Infill Serves Three Purposes

Adding infill to your artificial grass plays a critical role in ensuring the longevity and performance of your lawn. It provides weight to prevent material shifting, reinforces turf blades for an upright position, and protects the backing from UV exposure.

Recommended Infill Options

You have various options to choose from when it comes to infill. Herofill is a vinyl-coated option that offers antifungal protection and is anti-microbial, making it ideal for pet applications. If odor control is a top priority for you, consider Zeodorizer, which is specifically designed to reduce pet odors. Silica sand is a cost-effective choice but may not be suitable for areas with high foot traffic due to moisture retention.

Typical Infill Requirement: 2 to 3 Pounds per Square Foot

You’ll need approximately 2 to 3 pounds of infill per square foot, depending on how much foot traffic you expect and the height of the grass pile.

Application Steps

When it’s time to apply the infill, here are the essential steps:

• Brush the turf first to open the fibers. Using a power broom can make this process easier!
• For even distribution, consider using a drop spreader. Hand spreading works too, but be prepared for a longer manual effort.
• Manually fill in corners and edges as necessary to ensure complete coverage.
• After application, brush the infill down into the grass fibers to ensure even distribution across the surface.

Final Steps

After your grass is installed and infilled, be sure to clean up any excess materials from the surrounding area. Step back, take a good look at your newly created yard, and enjoy your beautiful new artificial grass!

Conclusion

By following proper installation techniques, you can ensure that your artificial grass remains durable and visually appealing, enhancing your outdoor living space for years to come.

If you need further assistance or have questions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to Purchase Green’s website or follow them on social media. You’ll love the stunning transformation that artificial grass can bring to your home! Enjoy your beautiful yard!