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You've already decided on the artificial grass you want for your decorating project. The model you choose affect the result and the durability of its installation.
But did you know that the way you install your artificial grass will also determine the appearance and lifespan of your investment?
Installing artificial grass may seem, and is, simple, but it's much more than it appears. You might think it's just like throwing a blanket over natural grass and that's it. But that's not true.
Why do you have to prepare the ground for artificial turf?
Although many people think that you simply have to calculate the number of square meters of synthetic grass you need and place the synthetic turf on the existing surface and secure it, there is much more to it than that.
With a poorly prepared base layer, you run the risk of the artificial grass roll sinking in some places, forming lumps or wrinkles, and the edges lifting.
Pests, such as squirrels and moles, will also have easier access to ruin your installation if the foundation isn't solid. Additionally, weeds will thrive without a well-compacted base.
So, what should be put under artificial turf?
4 Steps for preparing the land
Preparing the ground correctly before laying plastic turf is the first step to a successful installation.
A faulty installation will negate the benefits of a superior and well-chosen product.
If you don't take the time to properly prepare the ground, you won't get the aesthetic and functional results you expect.
1. Clear the land of weeds, stones, and other elements
First, we will remove the weeds or the natural grass that was there previously.
Between two weeks and a month before installation, start reducing watering of the lawn. Unhealthy and dead grass will be easier to remove.
The best way to obtain quick and effective results is to use a herbicide along with a hoe if you want to do it manually, or a rototiller if you want to do it mechanically.
2. Fill with sand or gravel
The next step is to fill the entire surface with sand or gravel, as this will facilitate future drainage of the artificial turf. You will need finely crushed rock, sand, or gravel with particles smaller than 10 mm. Fill the area with about five centimeters of the material to improve drainage.
Prevent water from flowing unevenly. Ensure the soil allows for good drainage of rainwater. Stagnant water can cause moss to grow on your artificial turf and can damage the turf itself.
3. Level the surface
Next, we'll level the ground. This involves filling holes, flattening bumps, and generally trying to create a surface with smooth contours (or a perfectly flat surface).
Finally, we will compact the ground with a roller. The necessary tools for this step can be found in garden centers.
The ground must be firm for the artificial turf to be used. The presence of holes or cracks can damage the turf and allow rainwater to pool.
4. Laying the weed barrier fabric
Even if the area has been filled with rock or sand, this will not prevent vegetation from growing beneath the surface. A weed-control geotextile fabric should be installed over the sand or rock layer to prevent any natural plants from growing among the artificial turf.
We will finish this step by placing a geotextile mesh which we will anchor to the ground with grass staples or nails.
Everything is ready for the installation of artificial grass
Once you have completed these four steps, you can begin installing the artificial grass.
If you want a low-maintenance, drought-resistant lawn, artificial grass is a great option. Artificial grass looks incredibly realistic and is available in a wide variety of colors and textures. In addition to being easy to care for, artificial grass requires no watering or fertilizer, making it an environmentally friendly choice. When installed correctly with high-quality materials, it can last up to 15 years.
I have 2 questions:
I have two dogs and they would surely get the artificial grass dirty with excrement.
My first question is…
1. Can it be washed with
soap, water, bleach, and soap?
And my second question is…
2. Where would the water used to wash the artificial grass go?
Ideally, you should remove the droppings and clean the artificial grass with water and mild soap. Synthetic grass has its own drainage system, so the water will drain away through the drain or sink of the surface where it's installed.
Hello, I have fruit trees, palm trees, and flowers in my garden. How do I install artificial turf?
You'll simply need to prepare the ground well, making it smooth and compact. Once you've planned how you're going to lay it out, you'll need to trim around any trees or flowers. Best regards.