If you have a yard that is made of natural grass and it is not looking great, you may want to look into artificial grass to use inyour outdoor space. Installing fake grass in your yard provides many great benefits.
An artificial grass installation will mean that you no longer have to mow the yard or spend time trying to keep it watered properly so that it looks good. You will save a ton of time and money by choosing fake grass for your yard.
Installing fake grass yourself is something that can easily be accomplished. While there are many companies that are happy to help you with the installation process, choosing to install fake grass yourself will save you a bit of money.
While artificial grass may not be for everyone, it has become more popular in recent years. These fake grass yards look vibrant all year long and are easy to maintain. You can find a variety of shades and textures available that will fit into any design that you have in mind.
Here are some tips on how to install artificial turf in your outdoor spaces.
Table of Contents
What You Need
- Fake grass
- Utility knife
- Nails
- Flat board
- Turf cutter or spade
- Crushed stones
- Hammer
- Lawn seed spreader
- Wheelbarrow
- Level
- Silica sand
- Course broom or rake
Optional materials include adhesive, shock absorbent materials, and warm soapy water.
12 steps for Install Artificial Grass
Step 1: Remove The Existing Turf
The first step in an artificial grass installation will be to remove the existing turf in the area. You will want to dig out the soil about one and a half to two and a half inches deep. Fake grass needs to sit about half an inch above any type of edging.
Step 2: Weed Protection
To prevent any type of weed from growing up and through the turf, which can cause it to become disfigured, you will want to place a weed suppressing agent over your prepared space. You can use the utility knife to cut the piece into the shape and size that you need.
Step 3: Apply Sand Layer
Next, you will want to apply a layer of crushed stone over the weed protection membrane. You will need to make sure that this level is compacted so that it creates a solid base for your artificial grass. This crush stone or sand layer provides a firm surface that will drain well and support the entire fake grass system.
Step 4: Create A Surface That Is Even
Once you have placed the first layer it is important to then add about a half an inch of sharp sand. Make sure that you compact this layer and make sure that it is completely level. Use a a flat board and a level to make sure that the entire space is evenly laid out.
Step 5: Shock Absorbent Material
This step is not required, but it is definitely something that you want to consider. Laying a shock absorbent material will provide more cushioning for the grass. Use a knife to cut the material into shape.
Step 6: Consider The Area
Next you will want to look over the area where the artificial grass is being installed. If a larger area is being covered you will likely need to put 2 widths together in order to create the space. If this is necessary, make sure that you apply adhesive to the surface under the joint in order to stop the pieces of artificial turf from moving.
Step 7: Remove Border From Turf
This step will depend on the type of turf that you are using. If necessary, you will want to make sure that you remove the border that is located on the side of the fake grass. You will want to cut carefully along the bubble level so that you create a straight line. Lean over a flat board to make sure that you do not cause damage the edge of the turf.
Step 8: Aligning The Grass
If possible, align the artificial grass pieces to a straight edge. You will want to push the fake grass in the corners tightly to make sure that it gets rolled out correctly. This also helps prevent movement in the future.
Step 9: Cutting The Turf
Once you have your artificial grass in place and it covers the desired area, you will want to go along the edges and cut off any excess using a utility knife. Make sure that you use a level as a guide to make sure that your edges stay straight.
Step 10: Nailing The Grass In Place
Once you have determined that the grass is the right size and shape for your area, it is time to nail it down. Start out by securing the corners and then place nails about every foot or so along the edges. If you are covering a vertical surface you can use adhesive to keep it in place.
Step 11: Apply Silica Sand
Use a grass seed spreader to apply a thin layer of silica sand on the top of the fake grass. This sand will create a stabilizing effect and can prevent the grass from moving.
Step 12: Rake Or Brush The Sand
Using a broom or a rake, brush the sand into the grass. Once this is complete, your new lawn is ready for use.
Best seller of Artificial Grass Turf
Conclusion
When it comes to how to install artificial grass, the steps are fairly simple to follow. Make sure that you create a flat surface area for the fake grass to be placed on. Once installed, artificial turf is relatively easy to maintain. If the grass begins to fall, simply use a rake against the grain to stand it up again. If the lawn becomes dirty, simply spray it down with a hose. It is really as simple as that.