Artificial turf is ideal for those looking for a drought resistant and minimal maintenance lawn. Proper ground preparation helps to create a long-lasting artificial lawn. A professional company can do the preparation and the installation of the turf correctly to prevent poor drainage, wrinkles, and tears. The following information elaborates more on various steps to help you prepare your ground for artificial grass:
Remove the Existing Natural Grass
Avoid watering your existing lawn several weeks before installation of artificial turf to make the removal of dead or unhealthy grass easier. To speed up the process, spray the area to kill existing plants and natural grass. Removing the soil and grass helps create a new base for artificial grass installation. The tools you use will depend on the size of your lawn. For smaller lawns, use a spade, and for bigger lawns, use a turf cutter to hasten the process. A well-prepared base layer reduces the likelihood of edges lifting, wrinkles or bumps forming, and sinking of the lawn in some spots. Before starting excavation, talk to the local utility company to help you identify underground pipes that may exist to prevent accidental damage.
Level Your Lawn
Before laying artificial grass, the ground should be leveled and smooth. There should be no stones or lumps that can make the lawn look uneven, as it can make the installation process more difficult. Leveling out the lawn helps with proper drainage and makes the grass look aesthetically pleasing. After leveling the ground, use a heavy hammer or worker plate to compact the lawn.
Installing Edge Restraint
Install concrete, plastic, or metal edging in areas prone to erosion or with loose soil. Doing so around the lawn’s parameters helps prevent the grass’s edges from shifting over time. The barrier should not go above the grass level, as it may impede drainage. A drainage layer is necessary for areas with high rainfall or clay soil. Installing crushed rock or placing a perforated drainage mat over the excavated area allows water to drain properly through the base.
Add a Base Layer
The sub-base layer should consist of gravel, decomposed granite, and ground rock. Apply a geotextile fabric layer to prevent weeds from growing through the soil. The weed membrane should be pinned evenly and tightly to the ground to create a good finish. Add a shock-absorbing layer or sand to enhance the feel of your artificial grass underfoot. The sub-base layer helps to make it firm and gives proper drainage for your artificial grass.
Flatten and Lightly Wet the Surface
Use a roller or flattening tool to spread the base material and make the area level and smooth. Making the area flat helps prevent unlevel surfaces from forming once you lay down the artificial grass. Use a garden hose to lubricate particles of sand or gravel for compaction. Compact the base further using hand tamps, a roller compactor, or a plate compactor. This will help prepare your ground for turf installation.
Contact a Reputable Artificial Turf Installer
Hire a reliable artificial turf installer with unparalleled expertise in your area. Choose one that provides a wide selection of synthetic grass products for both commercial and residential applications. They should have a team that can complete the preparation and installation process within the given deadline. Contact an installer who can customize artificial grass solutions to match your needs.
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