Thinking about removing your artificial turf? You’re not alone. Many homeowners decide to switch back to natural grass or change their landscaping.
To remove artificial turf, start by cutting it into smaller sections, then pull up the pieces and remove any infill or adhesive underneath. This process can be tough work, but it’s doable with the right tools and approach.
Artificial Turf Toronto has seen a growing trend of people removing synthetic grass due to concerns about its environmental impact. While artificial lawns need less water, they don’t support local ecosystems like natural grass does. Some folks worry about the plastic in fake grass and how it affects soil health over time.
Before you start ripping up your artificial lawn, it’s important to plan what you’ll do with the space afterward. Will you plant real grass, add a garden, or try something new? Having a clear vision will help guide your removal process and ensure you’re ready for the next step in your yard makeover.
Preparing for Turf Removal
Getting ready to remove artificial turf takes some planning. You’ll need to check out the area and gather the right tools before you start.
Assessing the Area
Look closely at your turf. Check how big it is and what’s underneath. This helps you figure out how much work you’ll need to do. Look for any spots where the turf is stuck down really well. These might need extra care.
Check if there are any pipes or wires under the turf. You don’t want to damage anything important. If you’re not sure, it’s smart to call a pro to check.
Think about what you’ll do with the old turf. You might need to rent a skip or arrange for pickup.
Gathering Necessary Tools
You’ll need some basic tools to remove turf. A shovel or spade is a must-have. It helps you cut and lift the turf. A rake can help you clean up loose bits.
Get a utility knife to cut the turf into smaller pieces. This makes it easier to handle. Don’t forget a broom to sweep up any mess.
Wear gloves to protect your hands. You might also need some boiling water to soften tough glue spots.
If the turf is really stuck, you might need a trowel for scraping. Think about renting a power tool if you have a big area to clear.
Step-by-Step Removal Process
Taking out artificial turf involves a few key stages. You’ll need to detach the turf, clear away infill materials, and roll up the synthetic grass. Let’s go through each step.
Detaching the Turf
Start by cutting the turf into smaller sections. Use a sharp utility knife to slice the fake grass into strips about 3-4 feet wide. This makes removal easier.
Look for nails or staples along the edges. Remove these with pliers or a pry bar. If the turf is glued down, you may need to use a floor scraper to loosen it.
Pour hot water over stubborn spots to soften the glue. Work in small areas, lifting as you go. Be careful not to damage the base layer underneath.
Removing Infills
Artificial grass often has infill materials like rubber or sand. You’ll need to get rid of these before rolling up the turf.
Use a stiff brush or power broom to loosen the infill. Sweep it into piles and scoop it up with a shovel. A shop vac can help with smaller particles.
Water the area lightly to settle any dust. This also makes the turf easier to roll up. Let it dry a bit before the next step.
Rolling up the Turf
Once the infill is gone, you can roll up the turf. Start at one end and roll tightly. It helps to have a friend assist you with this task.
Secure each roll with tape or twine. This keeps it compact for disposal. If the rolls are too heavy, cut them into shorter lengths.
Check the base layer as you go. Note any damage that might need fixing before the new installation. Remove any leftover debris or backing material stuck to the ground.
Label the rolls if you plan to reuse or recycle the turf. Some recycling centres accept artificial grass. Check local options for proper disposal.
Handling Adhesive and Securements
Taking out artificial turf means dealing with glue and things that hold it down. You’ll need to loosen stuck-on bits and pull out stakes.
Dealing With Turf Glue
Turf glue can be tough to remove. Use a heat gun to warm it up. Move the heat gun slowly over the glue to soften it. Be careful not to heat one spot too long, as this could damage the floor underneath.
Once the glue is soft, scrape it off with a shovel or trowel. Work in small areas at a time. You might need to reheat spots as you go.
For stubborn glue, try pouring boiling water over it. This can help loosen it more. Scrape right after pouring to get the most benefit.
Removing Stakes and Pegs
Stakes and pegs keep artificial turf in place. Look for these along the edges of the turf. Use pliers to grip and pull them out.
If they’re hard to see, feel along the turf edges with your hands. Be careful not to prick yourself.
For buried stakes, you might need to cut away some turf to find them. Once you spot a stake, wiggle it back and forth to loosen it before pulling up.
Count the stakes as you remove them. This helps make sure you got them all. Put the stakes in a bucket to keep your work area safe and tidy.
Disposal and Environmental Considerations
Getting rid of artificial turf can be tricky. It’s important to dispose of it properly to reduce harm to the environment. There are a few options to consider when removing your old turf.
Proper Disposal Methods
Don’t just toss your old turf in the trash. Most artificial grass can’t go in regular bins or compost. Check with your local waste management about special drop-off sites for synthetic turf. Some areas have facilities that can handle this material.
If allowed, you might be able to cut the turf into smaller pieces. This makes it easier to transport and dispose of. Be sure to separate any infill material first. The rubber crumbs often need separate disposal.
Some companies offer turf removal services. They’ll take care of disposal for you. This can be handy if you have a large amount to get rid of.
Recycling Options
Recycling artificial turf is getting easier. More companies now accept old turf for processing. They can turn it into new products or use it for energy.
Look for local recycling centres that take synthetic grass. Some might even pick it up from your home. Sports facilities often have connections to recycling programs for large amounts of turf.
Parts of the turf might be recyclable separately. The backing could go to one place, while the plastic blades go to another. This helps reduce waste in landfills.
Remember, recycling artificial turf helps the environment. It keeps plastic out of landfills and reduces the need for new raw materials. Always try to recycle before considering other disposal methods.
Restoring the Underlying Surface
After removing the artificial turf, you’ll need to address the area underneath. This involves cleaning up and getting it ready for whatever comes next.
Cleaning the Area
Start by clearing away any leftover dirt and debris. Use a rake to remove loose material. Sweep or vacuum up smaller particles. For stubborn bits, try pressure washing the surface.
Check for weeds or grass that may have grown through the turf. Pull these out by hand or use a weed killer. Be thorough to prevent regrowth.
Look for any damage to the subbase. Fill in holes or cracks with crushed rocks or soil. Level out uneven spots. This creates a smooth foundation for future use.
Preparing for New Installations or Natural Grass
If you plan to install new turf, make sure the subbase is firm and level. Add more crushed rocks if needed. Compact the surface with a plate compactor or hand tamper.
For natural grass, you’ll need to improve the soil. Mix in organic matter like compost. This helps create a healthy ecosystem for the grassroots.
Test the soil pH and add lime or sulphur to adjust it if needed. Rake the area smooth. Remove any large stones that could hinder grass growth.
Consider adding a layer of topsoil. This gives grass seeds or sod a good start. Water the area well to settle the soil before planting.
Options Beyond DIY
Removing artificial turf can be a big job. There are ways to get it done without doing all the work yourself. Let’s look at some other choices.
Hiring a Professional
You can hire experts to take out your artificial turf. They have special tools and know-how to do the job fast. These pros can remove the turf, prep the ground, and even put in new grass if you want.
Pros often charge by the square foot. The cost depends on how big your backyard is and how hard the job is. They’ll also get rid of the old turf for you. This saves you time and effort.
Pro teams can finish in a day or two. This is much quicker than most DIY jobs. They’ll also make sure to remove all the backing and infill. This helps your yard get ready for new plants or grass.
Alternatives to Traditional Turf Removal
You might not need to rip out all your turf. There are other ways to deal with it. One option is solarisation. This uses the sun’s heat to break down the turf.
To do this, you cover the turf with clear plastic. Leave it for several weeks in hot weather. The heat will kill the turf and make it easier to remove.
Another choice is smothering. You can cover the turf with cardboard or newspaper. Then add soil on top. Over time, the turf will break down. This method takes longer but needs less work.
These options are good if you’re not in a rush. They’re easier on your back and wallet than tearing out the turf right away.