Cutting artificial turf may seem tricky, but with the right tools and know-how, you can achieve a neat finish for your lawn project.
To cut artificial grass, you’ll need a sharp blade like a snap blade X-Acto knife or an ox hook blade, along with a straight edge for accuracy.
Before you start, lay out your turf and make sure it fits the space. Measure and mark where you need to cut, leaving a small gap at the edges for a clean look. An eighth-of-an-inch gap is ideal when cutting around landscape features.
Remember to take your time and make smooth, steady cuts. This will help you avoid mistakes and create a professional-looking result.
With a bit of practice and guidance from Artificial Turf Toronto, you’ll be cutting artificial turf like a pro in no time.
Preparation
Getting ready to cut artificial turf takes some planning and the right tools. Good prep work will make the cutting process much smoother and give you better results.
Planning the Installation Area
Look at where you’ll put the turf and picture how it will fit. Measure the space carefully. Think about any tricky spots like corners or places where the turf will meet other surfaces. Make a simple sketch of the area. This will help you figure out how much turf you need and where you’ll need to make cuts.
Consider drainage too. The ground should slope away from buildings. If needed, plan for a base layer of gravel or sand to help water drain.
Don’t forget about the edges. You might want to add a border of pavers or edging material. Include this in your plan.
Gathering the Right Tools
You’ll need some basic tools to cut artificial turf:
- Sharp utility knife or carpet cutter
- Measuring tape
- Chalk or marker
- Straight edge (a longboard or metal ruler)
- Gloves to protect your hands
For bigger jobs, you might want:
- Carpet kicker to stretch the turf
- Seaming tape and adhesive for joining pieces
- Power stretcher for large areas
Make sure your cutting tools are very sharp. Dull blades make messy cuts and are harder to use.
Measuring and Marking
Careful measuring is key for a good fit. Use your measuring tape to check the space again. It’s better to measure twice than to cut too short.
Mark your cutting lines on the back of the turf. You can use chalk or a marker. For long straight cuts, snap a chalk line. This makes a thin, straight line to follow.
For curves, use a flexible material like a garden hose to mark the shape. Trace around it with chalk.
Always add a bit extra when measuring. It’s easier to trim off a little more than to add length if you cut too short.
Cutting Techniques
Cutting artificial turf requires the right tools and techniques. Proper cutting ensures a neat, professional-looking installation that fits your space perfectly.
Achieving Straight Lines
To get straight cuts, use a sharp utility knife or box cutter. Mark your cutting line with chalk or a silver marker. Place a straight edge along the line as a guide. Hold the knife at a slight angle and cut from the back of the turf. This gives you more control and a cleaner edge.
Make several passes with light pressure instead of trying to cut through in one go. This helps prevent jagged edges. Always wear gloves to protect your hands.
For long straight cuts, you can also use a carpet cutter. This tool has a long handle and a sharp blade that slides along the turf backing. It can make cutting large areas faster and easier.
Cutting for Complex Shapes
Cutting curves and shapes takes more care. Use sharp scissors or a utility knife for small detailed cuts. Work slowly and make small cuts to avoid mistakes.
For circles, start by cutting a rough square shape slightly larger than needed. Then trim the corners to make an octagon. Finally, cut a smooth curve to finish the circle.
When cutting around objects like sprinkler heads, use a template. Trace the object onto cardboard, then cut out the shape. Place this template on the turf and cut around it.
Always cut a bit extra at first. You can trim more later, but you can’t add turf back if you cut too much. Take your time to ensure accurate cuts for a polished look.
Installation Tips
Proper installation makes artificial turf look great and last longer. Focus on securing edges and joining seams for a smooth, seamless look.
Securing the Turf Edges
Secure turf edges to prevent lifting and tripping hazards. Use landscape spikes every 15-20 cm along the perimeter. Drive spikes through the turf backing into the ground at a 45-degree angle. For patios or concrete, apply a strong adhesive to bond the turf to the surface.
Trim excess turf with a sharp utility knife, leaving a 1-2 cm overhang. Tuck edges under for a clean finish against walls or walkways. Use a roller to press the edges flat after securing.
For a pro look, install plastic or metal edging before laying turf. This creates a clean border and helps hold the turf in place.
Joining Seams Without Gaps
Seaming artificial turf needs care to avoid visible lines. Start by trimming edges straight with a sharp blade and metal straight edge. Overlap pieces by 5-8 cm, then cut through both layers for a perfect match.
Apply seaming tape under the joint, sticky side up. Use outdoor carpet adhesive on the tape. Press both edges into the adhesive, working out air bubbles. Brush fibres upright to hide the seam.
For large areas, rent a power stretcher to pull turf tight before seaming. This prevents wrinkles and gaps. Let seams dry fully before walking on them.
Finishing Touches
The final steps in cutting artificial turf involve careful trimming and edge perfection. These finishing touches ensure a polished, professional look for your synthetic lawn.
Trimming Around Obstacles
Use a sharp utility knife to trim the turf around trees, posts, and other objects. Cut slowly and carefully, following the contours of each obstacle. Make small cuts rather than trying to remove large sections at once.
For circular objects like trees, start by cutting a rough circle. Then trim away excess turf bit by bit until you achieve a snug fit. Leave a small gap (about 1 cm) between the turf and tree trunk for growth.
When trimming near sprinkler heads or golf holes, cut an X-shape over the feature. Fold back the flaps and trim them to fit neatly around the edges.
Inspecting and Perfecting Edges
Check all edges of your newly cut turf for uniformity. Use a straight edge as a guide to ensure clean, straight lines along borders and pathways.
Trim any uneven spots with sharp scissors or a utility knife. Pay extra attention to corners, making sure they’re neat and square.
For a professional finish, use a carpet tucking tool to tuck edges under perimeter boards or into border trenches. This hides raw edges and gives a seamless look.
Brush the turf fibres upright along the edges and seams. This blends cut areas with the rest of the lawn for a natural appearance.
Maintenance and Care
Artificial grass is low-maintenance, but it still needs some care. Regular upkeep keeps your synthetic turf looking fresh and extends its life.
Brush the turf weekly to keep the blades upright. Use a stiff-bristled broom or a special artificial grass rake. Brush against the natural grain to fluff up flattened areas.
Remove debris like leaves and twigs often. A leaf blower works well for this task. For stubborn bits, use a plastic rake with flexible tines.
Rinse your turf monthly with a hose to wash away dust and pollen. This helps prevent odours and keeps the grass clean.
Deal with spills and stains right away. Blot liquids with a cloth, then rinse with water. For tougher stains, use a mild soap solution.
Here’s a quick maintenance checklist:
- Weekly: Brush and remove debris
- Monthly: Rinse with water
- As needed: Clean spills and stains
Avoid using harsh chemicals on your artificial grass. They can damage the fibres and backing. Also, keep heat sources like grills away from the turf to prevent melting.
With proper care, your synthetic lawn will stay lush and green for years. It’s much easier than maintaining natural grass, saving you time and effort.