If you’re in the market for a new piece of artificial turf, you might be wondering how to go about installing it yourself. Before you start, there are some tips you should remember before you get started. Here are the steps you need to take to install artificial turf yourself: Tools you’ll need, Sub-base preparation, and seaming. If you follow these steps, your finished product will look great. However, if you’re unsure about the steps, you can always hire a professional installer.
Installing artificial turf
Installation of artificial turf begins with surveying the worksite. Remove all debris and create a level, unobstructed pathway. Next, install a base layer, such as road base or a class-2 gravel. Make sure to leave approximately 3/4 in. of space between the base and the hardscape edge, as this will help prevent weeds and other pests from invading your turf. If necessary, secure the edge of the turf with a hand tamper to create even pressure.
Once the base is leveled, the installation process begins. If the surface is already prepared, you can begin by applying a layer of gopher wire. To do this, place a small amount of glue on a piece of masking tape and lift it up. Then, use a wire cutter to trim the wire. After the glue has set, lay a layer of geotextile material on the area. Once this is in place, you’re ready to lay the artificial grass base material.
Before installing the turf, cut it in small sections. Make sure the grass blades face the same way when installed. If you’re unsure of the exact placement of the turf, mark it using chalk or spray paint. If the turf is large, you can use a utility knife to make the cuts. Afterwards, apply an adhesive to the seam tape. Once the glue has set, move the turf into its final location. Be sure to brush the blades of the turf to the same direction. Ensure that the distance between stitch rows matches the space between blades.
Another important consideration is drainage. Installing artificial turf on poorly draining soil is possible, but you must be sure to install an efficient drainage system. Make sure to make drainage gaps every six inches around the perimeter to allow light rain to flow. Also, never leave spilled food on the turf. Even if you don’t want it to look dirty, mold will form on it. If you’re not sure about the drainage system in your area, you should ask a professional.
Tools needed
For successful artificial turf installation, you will need a few tools. A sharp knife is essential for laying the artificial grass, which comes in rectangular sections. The fabric and base layer must also be cut to size. Self-adhesive tape isn’t required, but you will need tools to apply it to your base layer. A palette knife is useful for spreading glue on the seam tape. A flat shovel is another essential tool.
A square-edged steel blade can be used to trim and shape the materials. These blades fit into any carpet blade and prevent seams from being noticeable. Sharp scissors can also be useful for trimming the joins of artificial grass. These tools are essential for creating a perfect Mohawk effect, which is achieved by pushing together the fibres. The following list outlines the tools you will need for successful artificial turf installation. This list is not comprehensive, but will give you a basic idea of what you need.
A commercial-grade broom can help you spread the artificial grass. It holds up to 110 lbs. of infill and is made to be durable. You can also use two people to spread the artificial grass. Another essential tool is a rake. A rake can help you fluff the blades of the turf and keep them clean. It is a must-have tool for artificial turf installation.
In addition to a broom and a flat-bladed shovel, you will need a rake, level and sharp tools to cut the artificial grass. It is important to remember that artificial grass can stain if spilled on it. A white spirit can be used to clean the stain. Professional installers may use a vibration plate or roller to compact the soil. Alternatively, you can use planks or timber edging for a more affordable option. Always remember to keep the final grass line at the highest point, as water will run off.
Sub-base preparation
To properly install artificial grass, it is essential to prepare the sub-base before installing the turf itself. The soil beneath the grass can expand and contract, creating wrinkles and divots. In areas with harsh winters, such as Arizona and Nevada, the base material is already decomposed granite or crushed rock. In those areas, the sub-base material should be sharp sand or sharp concrete, which contains larger grains.
Crushed granite or limestone dust makes an excellent sub-base material. It is widely used for areas that have a high degree of dip. This sub-base material is best compacted with a vibratory-plate compactor, but a roller or a hand tamper can also be used. Adding water to the sub-base can help to remove any voids. The sub-base should be leveled to a depth of 1.5” below the border.
For concrete surfaces, digging is impossible. You should instead install a foam pad underneath the turf to prevent any injuries. Alternatively, you can use shock pads to prevent falls from atop the concrete surface. Concrete is hard and can cause a serious problem if someone slips or falls on it. Ultimately, sub-base preparation for artificial turf installation is a complex process, but it doesn’t have to be difficult.
When preparing the sub-base, make sure to remove any weeds before laying down the turf. Once the turf has acclimate, it is ready to be covered with kiln-dried sand or synthetic grass. You’ll also need to mark the perimeters of any trees, bushes, or structures. Ideally, you should allow six inches of space around any objects that might fall on the turf.
Seaming
There are several ways to make a seam on an artificial turf installation. First, you must decide how much seaming is needed. You can use staples or nails, but they’ll make the seam visible. If the seam is too wide, you can use seam tape to prevent it from being manipulated or damaged. When installing seam tape, you must position the gray side of the tape half-way under the two pieces of turf. You may need to use nails in the corners of the seam to keep it in place.
Once you’ve decided how much seaming you need, the next step is to secure the sections. Try to keep a distance of at least 18 inches between sections. This will prevent movement during the seaming process, and you’ll be able to fold each section over to place the seaming tape. When you’re finished, you’ll be able to remove the staples and nails once the glue is completely dry.
Next, you’ll need adhesive glue, seaming tape, and a notched trowel. Using a notched trowel, cut each turf tuft close to the adjacent piece. Remember, a tight seam will compromise the surface of the turf, so use the right seaming glue to avoid compromising the look. Afterward, roll the turf back six inches to ensure a straight seam. Then, pour the glue evenly over the top section.
Installing artificial turf with seaming is a complicated process. Proper installation can increase the longevity of your turf, and it will also prevent people from tripping over uneven edges. Always measure the area before installing synthetic turf. Measure the area and cut the rolls to the proper measurements. Align the adjacent edges and apply seaming tape or glue to the seams. A seamed artificial turf will last longer. If you do it right, the seams won’t be visible at all.
Bordering
When installing synthetic grass, you may want to install a border or edging. There are many options for edging, including natural or manufactured materials. Some people choose not to use borders, but you may find that you would like to have one to disguise uneven edges. Below are the pros and cons of each. You should consider using borders when installing artificial grass, based on the area of your home or the space you are covering.
One of the most common choices for artificial turf installation borders is plastic bender board. Plastic bender board is strong and pliable, making it easy to contour evenly and consistently. However, it is difficult to install this material in straight lines, and dogs may lift it. To avoid this, use a concrete base instead. It will provide a sturdy edge for the artificial grass. However, you should not install artificial grass on top of sleepers.
If you do not have access to a concrete foundation, you can use railroad ties. These have been popular landscaping borders for many years. You can cut them to fit a variety of applications. They’re a great way to add border features before artificial grass is installed. By using railroad ties, you can also build up a lawn area before installing artificial grass. If you are in a geologically active area, you can use a railroad trestle as a border, and the ties can be a great way to hide rocky areas.
Before installing artificial turf, you should carefully plan the border. Depending on the area you are covering, you can either install it very tightly against a wall or use a border made of large rocks or stone. The artificial grass will need a retaining edge before it can compact, which is why installing a border is so important. Without a retaining edge, you may experience problems with the sub-base, which can be easily blown up or pulled up.