After buying artificial grass,we will start to install it.Here are the 4 steps to installing artificial grass. For the best looking lawn,you should follow each step and be sure not to take any short cuts.
Clear any existing grass or vegetation on area for artificial grass, spray a weed killer or grass blocker solution to ensure that no vegetation will grow under the grass area in the future. Weed cloth is a good place for installing artificial grass. If possible, do this step several days before installation to ensure you removed all weeds.
2. If you are ready,apply crushed stone aggregate or decomposed granite. You can purchase this at your local rock yard or building supply warehouse.Once the crushed stone is applied, you will want to make sure the base is as level as possible. Once the crushed aggregate is compacted and level, use a 15-25 year weed barrier. Lay the weed barrier down using landscaping staples.A water sod roller may be useful for this step.
On this step,you need to remember that the artificial grass will be applied on top of this crushed stone base, thus any undulation on the surface will be visible once the artificial grass has been applied. It is also important to remember that the crushed stone will aid in the drainage properties of the system, so a slight slope is recommended for proper drainage but not necessary.
3.Once you have laid the weed barrier, roll out the turf according to your area measurements.It is important to lay the turf with all grass fibers or blades going in the same direction to ensure that all pieces of turf match up.If you do not have multiple pieces or sections on grass,this step may not apply.
Next,make cuts in the artificial grass using a standard carpet or box knife to fit the grass to desired area. You are essentially cutting the artificial grass to create the exact shape of your area, so the fewer pieces of turf used the better; this will eliminate seaming pieces together.Now you are ready to attach the grass to your base. Start at one side of the application area so you can pull the turf tight from the other side.
This process is the most important, so your turf is attached securely and properly. Drive in the nails around the perimeter of the area. Install nails 2' to 4' feet in the middle. This ensures that the material is properly fixed to the base. Remember, the nails hold the edges of the turf in place, while the infill will actually weigh the material down.
The final step is to add the infill material,you need to fluff the grass up with a rake or power broom so that the infill can be applied.Using approximately 2 lbs of infill material per square foot of turf will be a good choice. You will want to evenly apply the infill material on top of the artificial grass with a drop spreader; if you don't have a drop spreader you can do it by hand but this process will be more time consuming.
Next,using a soft to medium bristled push broom to work the infill material into the artificial grass. Keep working the infill material into the turf until the turf begins to stand upright. If you do not see the results you want, a flat-head rake is a good tool to use as well.Remember it is important to make sure that you brush the infill material against the grain of the turf; this allows the infill to work its way to the base of the fibers correctly.
In finally,a simple check to make sure it's even is to walk over the grass and your feet will tell you if it's even or not. Work the infill in the artificial grass
until desired appearance is achieved. Once the infill is installed. There is no need to add any more for the life of your grass.
