Dreaming of a lush, green lawn without the constant chores? Artificial grass can be a fantastic solution for any space. However, achieving that flawless, long-lasting finish isn’t just about the product itself; it’s about meticulous installation. While it’s certainly a DIY-friendly project if you have the time, energy, and inclination, understanding each step ensures your investment looks great and performs perfectly for years to come.
Here’s how to lay artificial grass like a seasoned professional:
1. Site Preparation
First, clear the area completely of all existing plants, debris, and any garden furniture or obstacles. Then, mow your existing grass as short as possible for the very last time. For optimal results, dig out a minimum of 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) of existing sod and soil to create room for your new base. Ensure all organic material, such as roots and leaves, is removed to prevent future subsidence. If your area has known drainage issues, now is the time to install additional French drains or soak holes. Finally, consider laying a geotextile weed membrane over the excavated soil; it helps prevent new weeds from below and stabilizes the ground.
2. Base Layer Construction
The base is critical. Start by laying a minimum of 3-4 inches of crushed stone (like 804 or CMB), building it up in layers and compacting evenly as you go. For the final inch, use plant dust, fine crushed rock, or mortar/plastering sand. Avoid shingle, pea gravel, or rounded stone, as these won’t compact properly and will lead to an uneven surface.
3. Compacting and Levelling
Using a vibrating plate compactor (or a water-filled lawn roller/hand tamper for smaller areas), thoroughly compact each layer of your base. Lightly hose down the area to aid compaction. Aim for a level surface, with a slight taper of 1-2 degrees from the middle outwards to assist drainage, mimicking natural lawns.
4. Laying the Grass
Carefully roll out the artificial grass, starting with the largest piece, ensuring it lies smooth and firm. Crucially, all pieces of grass must be laid with their fibres facing the same direction (the “nap”). For the most realistic look, the nap should face your primary viewing point (e.g., from your house). Trim off any obvious excess and the manufacturer’s “selvage” strip from the edges.
5. Cutting and Seaming
For any joins, precision is key. When butting two pieces together, ensure the stitch lines on the backing are consistent to create a near-invisible seam. This often involves cutting tight to a stitch line on one side and leaving a corresponding flap on the other, or cutting a slight wave pattern. Secure these joins using a specialist fiberglass seaming tape and a high-quality adhesive glue. Apply the glue evenly, then firmly press the two grass pieces onto the tape. Allow 12-24 hours for the glue to fully cure before walking on it, especially on the joins.
6. Securing the Perimeter
Once all pieces are laid and joined, pull the grass taut to remove any wrinkles. Secure the edges by nailing or screwing the grass into treated timber edging (such as 2x1s for curves or 4x2s for straight runs) installed around the perimeter. Avoid simply using U-pins for the main perimeter, as they can dislodge over time.
7. Final Touch and Infill (Optional)
Finally, sweep off any loose fibres that are a by-product of cutting the grass. Use a stiff-bristled yard brush or a plastic rake, working against the grain to “jizz up” the fibres and give your lawn its best appearance. For modern landscape grasses, sand infill is generally optional. While older versions needed it for stability, newer fibres offer sufficient “springbackability.” However, it can be used for added protection in high-traffic areas or as a fire retardant in commercial settings.
A Word of Advice: While DIY is rewarding, achieving a truly professional finish can be challenging, especially for complex shapes or large areas. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a professional installer. They have the specialized tools, experience, and knowledge to handle any situation, ensuring your beautiful new lawn stands the test of time.