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How to Prepare Your Lawn for Synthetic Turf Installation

Matt Gordon • March 27, 2023

There are many benefits of installing artificial turf in your yard. You may have decided to install fake grass due to its low maintenance or its ability to help reduce allergies in allergy suffers. You may decide to hire a professional such as Impressive Turf Solutions to install your fake grass, or you perhaps you’re looking to do the DIY installation yourself. If DIY is the route you want to take, there are tips and tricks you need to know. 


Before you start, it is important to prepare the area properly for the best results for both short and long term. Proper preparation ensures that your artificial turf will be installed correctly and will look great for years to come. In this blog, we'll provide some tips on how to prepare your lawn for synthetic turf installation.


Step 1: Clear the Area

The first step in preparing your lawn for synthetic turf installation is to clear the area. Remove any existing grass, weeds, or debris from the area where you plan to install your artificial turf. Having a clear and blank slate to start is essential!


Step 2: Level the Ground

After clearing the area, you need to ensure the ground is level. Use a leveling tool or a straight board to check the level of your ground. If you find any low spots, you can use a shovel to fill them in with soil. If you find any high spots, you can use a sod cutter to remove the excess soil.


Step 3: Add a Layer of Crusher Dust

Arguably the most crucial step in this process is adding a layer of crusher dust. This layer will help to create a stable base for your fake grass that will prevent your new fake grass from sinking or shifting over time. Using a shovel followed by your leveling tool, spread an even layer over your area.


Step 4: Compact and Compact Again

Once the crusher dust layer is in place, the next step in your synthetic turf installation is to lightly spray the crusher dust with water and then compact the area. Be sure to do this step multiple times as this helps to create a level and stable surface for your fake grass. By skipping this step, you run the risk creating drainage problems or uneven fake grass, neither of which you want. Uneven synthetic turf is unsightly as well as unsafe.


Step 5: Install the Artificial Turf

Now that you have prepared the area properly, you can start to lay your artificial turf. Lay the artificial turf out on the prepared surface without dragging it across your new level area and then trim it to fit. Make sure that the edges are properly aligned and that there are no wrinkles or bumps in the turf. Use landscape staples to secure the edges of the turf to the ground.


Step 6: Add Infill Material

After the artificial turf is installed, you need to add infill material to help it stand up and maintain its shape. We usually recommend an infill made of premium sand to spread over the surface of the turf. Spread the infill evenly to ensure that it is properly distributed throughout the turf. This step is crucial for best results. 


Preparing your lawn properly for a DIY synthetic turf installation is critical in ensuring that your new lawn looks great and lasts for years to come. By following these steps, you can enjoy your synthetic turf for many years to come. 

If you are unsure about any of the steps or would like additional information on new artificial turf, be sure to check out our DIY Installation Guide or contact us at Impressive Turf Solutions. We are the synthetic turf experts and can guide you to the best product for your needs. 


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How to Prepare Your Lawn for Synthetic Turf Installation
By Matt Gordon March 27, 2023
If you're about to embark on DIY synthetic turf installation, there are tips and tricks you need to know for best results. Proper preparation of your area is essential. Read on to learn what you need to know.
By Matt Gordon February 23, 2023
The benefits of fake turf are plenty. A backyard can be transformed into a stunning, inviting and natural looking space with the use of artificial turf . Not only is it low maintenance, but it also looks beautiful regardless of the weather. Our Brisbane weather allows us to enjoy our backyards year-round and our climate makes fake turf an ideal choice in your backyard design. In this blog, we will explore how to create a multi-dimensional and a low-maintenance backyard with fake turf. Create a plan Before starting any landscaping project, it's essential to have a plan in place. Make a list of what uses you want your low-maintenance backyard for and consider the shape and size of your yard. Decide on the areas that you want to create that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Additionally, consider who will be using the yard. Do you have pets and small children? Do you want to section off designated areas for them? Making a plan before you design the area will ensure you are getting the most out of your investment in artificial turf . Installing Synthetic Turf The next step is to install your new fake turf. If you are planning on doing a DIY installation, here are some of our top tips: Ensure you clear the area of any existing grass, debris or rocks. Once the existing grass has been removed, spray the area with a weed killer to ensure it won’t grow back. Next you need to spread your base layer . We suggest a road base such as crusher dust. Ensure it is level while also creating a gentle slope to where you want the excess water to drain. Then you need to compact it . This critical step is best achieved by spraying water on the crusher dust which turns it into a concrete like base. Lastly, install the fake turf ! Read our helpful resource for more detailed instructions on a DIY installation of fake grass . It’s All About The Levels To add dimension and interest to your backyard, create different levels using materials such as timber, stone, or brick. You might want to build a raised garden bed or a retaining wall to create additional seating. The different levels will add interest and texture to your backyard, making it more visually appealing while also providing seating. Add Greenery We are so fortunate to live in a conducive climate for year-round outdoor living. Utilize what nature has gifted us and add plants and trees to your backyard to create a natural look for you and your family to enjoy.  Choose plants that thrive in your climate while considering your specific elements such as where the sun falls and areas that are more prone to wind. Also factor in areas of high and low drainage. Be sure to plant trees far enough away from any structures or the fake turf to prevent damage long-term. Incorporate Features What do you want to achieve with your low-maintenance backyard? If you’re looking to create a more zen feel, perhaps a water feature will work for your design. If you have a green thumb, maybe building a herb wall is more your style. If you have any drainage issues that need to be considered, perhaps a rain garden is a feature worth investing in. Whatever your design may be, installing a feature that draws the eye adds value and appeal to your space. Install Lighting Installing lighting in your backyard is essential. It will allow you to enjoy it even after the sun goes down whilst keeping you safe. You might want to install path lights to illuminate walkways, or string lights to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Consider installing a timer to automatically turn the lights on and off or solar powered lighting to reduce your energy bills. Create Comfort The final step to creating your low-maintenance backyard is to add outdoor furniture to create a comfortable and inviting space. Choose furniture that fits the style of your backyard and your home and consider the materials used. Ensure that whichever furniture you choose is friendly to the environments they will be exposed to and that they will require very little maintenance. Creating a multi-dimensional and low-maintenance backyard with artificial turf is a great way to transform your outdoor space. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a space that is both beautiful and functional while saving you time. Be sure to incorporate different levels, plants and trees, water features, lighting, and outdoor furniture to make your backyard an oasis you can enjoy all year round. For more information on fake grass and how it can transform your backyard, get in touch with us at Impressive Turf Solutions today.
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