Want a lush, green lawn without the constant upkeep? Artificial turf might be the perfect solution for your yard. As Artificial Turf Toronto explains, installing synthetic grass can give you a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that stays green all year round.
Installing artificial turf involves removing existing grass, preparing the ground, and laying down the synthetic material.
You’ll need to excavate the area, add a base layer, and secure the turf in place. While it takes some work upfront, the long-term benefits are worth it. You’ll save time and money on mowing, watering, and fertilizing.
Artificial grass is also eco-friendly. It doesn’t need water or chemicals to stay green, which helps conserve resources.
Plus, it’s durable enough to withstand heavy use without getting worn down or muddy. Whether you have kids or pets or just want a picture-perfect yard, artificial turf can be a smart choice for your outdoor space.
Planning Your Artificial Turf Installation
Before starting your turf project, careful planning is key. You’ll need to assess your space, pick the right grass, and gather all necessary supplies.
Assessing Your Installation Area
Measure your yard carefully to determine how much turf you’ll need. Look for any slopes, curves, or obstacles that might affect installation. Check for drainage issues and plan how to address them. Remove any existing grass, weeds, or debris from the area. Decide if you need to level the ground or add a base layer.
Consider your soil type and whether you need to improve it. Think about how the turf will connect to other parts of your yard, like patios or walkways. Plan for edging to create clean borders. Make sure there’s enough space for proper drainage.
Choosing the Right Artificial Grass
Pick a grass that fits your needs and budget. Look at different pile heights, colours, and textures. Think about how you’ll use the area – for pets, kids, or just looks.
Some grasses are better for high-traffic areas. Others are made to look more natural. Check the warranty and expected lifespan of different options. Consider how much maintenance each type needs.
Ask for samples to see and feel the grass in your space. Think about how the grass will look in different lights. Make sure it matches your home’s style.
Required Tools and Materials
Here’s what you’ll need for your turf project:
- Shovel and rake
- Wheelbarrow
- Plate compactor
- Utility knife
- Joining tape and adhesive
- Infill material (sand or rubber)
- Weed barrier fabric
- Base materials (gravel, crushed stone)
- Turf nails or landscape staples
- Stiff broom or power brush
For cutting and fitting, you’ll want a sharp utility knife and extra blades. A carpet kicker helps stretch the turf for a tight fit. Don’t forget safety gear like gloves and knee pads. Rent big tools like plate compactors if you don’t want to buy them.
Preparing the Installation Site
Getting your site ready is crucial for a successful artificial turf installation. You’ll need to clear the area, set up proper drainage, and create a solid base before laying the turf.
Removing Existing Grass
Start by removing all grass and plants from the area. Use a sod cutter to strip away the top layer of grass and roots. Dig about 7-10 cm deep to make room for the new base materials. Clear out any rocks, sticks, or debris you find.
Next, spray the area with a weed killer to prevent future growth. Let it sit for a few days, then rake up any dead plants. Level the ground with a rake and fill in low spots with soil. Use a plate compactor to create a firm, even surface.
Ensuring Proper Drainage
Good drainage is key to preventing water buildup under your turf. Slope the ground away from buildings at a 1-2% grade. This means a 1-2 cm drop for every metre of distance.
For areas with poor drainage, install a perforated pipe system. Dig trenches in a herringbone pattern and lay pipes wrapped in landscape fabric. Cover with gravel, then soil. This helps move water away from the turf.
In low spots, add extra sand or gravel to improve drainage. Make sure water has a clear path to flow off your property.
Installing Base Materials and Edging
Start with a layer of clear crushed gravel, about 5 cm deep. Spread it evenly and compact it with a plate compactor. This creates a stable, well-draining base for your turf.
Next, add a 2-3 cm layer of sand. Level it with a rake and compact it. The sand helps create a smooth surface for the turf to sit on.
Install edging around the perimeter to hold the base in place. Use plastic, metal, or wood edging. Secure it with landscaping spikes every 30-60 cm.
Finally, lay down a weed barrier fabric. This stops weeds from growing through your turf. Overlap the edges by 10 cm and secure with landscaping staples every 30 cm.
Laying and Securing the Turf
Laying artificial turf takes care and attention to detail. The key steps are unrolling the turf, trimming it to fit, and securing it in place.
Unrolling and Positioning
Start by unrolling your artificial grass in the prepared area. Let it sit in the sun for a few hours to relax and flatten out. This helps prevent wrinkles or bumps later.
Place the turf rolls in the same direction to keep the grass blades looking uniform. Make sure the edges line up neatly against borders and structures. Leave a bit of extra turf hanging over the edges for trimming later.
Smooth out any wrinkles or folds as you go. A push broom can help flatten the turf and stand the grass fibres upright.
Trimming and Anchoring
Once the turf is positioned, trim the edges to fit. Use a sharp utility knife to cut along walls, paths, and other borders. Take your time to get clean, straight cuts.
Next, anchor the turf edges. Use galvanized spiral turf spikes or landscape staples every 15-20 cm along the perimeter. This keeps the edges from lifting or shifting.
For high-traffic areas or slopes, add extra anchors throughout the turf surface. Drive them in until they’re just below the grass level.
Joining Seams with Seam Tape and Glue
For larger areas, you’ll need to join sections of turf. Line up the edges carefully, making sure the grass blades face the same way. Trim if needed for a tight fit.
Lay seam tape sticky-side up along the joint. Apply outdoor turf adhesive to the tape. Press both edges of the turf firmly onto the tape, working out any air bubbles.
Weight down the seam and let it dry completely. Once set, the join should be nearly invisible. Brush the grass fibres to blend the seam further.
Applying Infill and Finishing Touches
Adding infill to your artificial turf is key for its look and function. This step gives your lawn stability and a natural feel. Let’s go over how to spread the infill and do final checks.
Spreading and Brushing Infill
Start by getting the right infill. Sand or rubber are common choices. Pour the infill onto the turf in small piles. Use a push broom or power broom to spread it evenly. Work in one direction to stand up the blades.
Add infill in layers. This helps it settle between the blades. Aim for about 1-2 pounds of infill per square foot. Brush each layer well.
Use a rake to fluff up the blades. This stops them from lying flat. Keep brushing until the infill is even and the blades stand up straight.
Final Inspections
Walk on the turf to test how it feels. Look for low spots where more infill is needed. Add more if you find any.
Check the edges to make sure they’re secure. Trim any loose threads with scissors. Make sure the turf looks even and natural from all angles.
Water the turf lightly. This helps settle the infill. It also cleans off any dust. Let it dry, then do one last brush. Your new artificial lawn is now ready to enjoy!
Maintaining Your Artificial Turf
Proper care keeps your artificial turf looking great for years. Regular cleaning, pet-friendly practices, and long-term upkeep are key to preserving your turf’s appearance and performance.
Regular Cleaning and Debris Removal
Brush your turf weekly to keep the fibres upright. Use a stiff-bristled broom or a power brush for larger areas. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris with a leaf blower or rake.
Rinse your turf monthly with a hose to wash away dust and small particles. For stubborn stains, use mild soap and warm water. Scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse well.
In snowy areas, let the snow melt naturally. Don’t use metal shovels, as they can damage the fibres. A plastic shovel is okay for light snow removal.
Managing Pet Considerations
Pick up solid waste promptly to prevent staining and odours. Rinse pet areas often with water to dilute urine.
For stubborn smells, use a pet-friendly turf deodorizer. These products break down odour-causing bacteria.
Consider installing a separate pet relief area with extra drainage. This helps keep the main turf area clean and odour-free.
Check your turf’s warranty for specific pet care guidelines. Some warranties may have special requirements for pet owners.
Long-Term Care Strategies
Inspect your turf yearly for signs of wear or damage. Look for loose seams, flattened areas, or weed growth along the edges.
Apply a weed killer around the turf’s edges once a year to prevent weed invasion. Choose a product safe for artificial grass.
Every few years, add a thin layer of infill to maintain proper cushioning and support. This helps keep the fibres upright and improves drainage.
Avoid placing heavy objects on your turf for long periods. This can crush the fibres and create permanent flat spots.
Don’t use harsh chemicals or fertilizers on your turf. These can damage the fibres and backing material.