It may not be for everyone, but artificial grass has seen a rise in popularity in recent years. With its easy upkeep and year-round vibrancy it's easy to see why. It is available in a range of textures and shades and can be fitted to any design.
Material needed:
artificial turf
spade or turf cutter
wheelbarrow
weed-suppressing membrane
utility knife
sand, crushed stones or grit
piece of wood or flat board
level
shock-absorbent material (optional)
adhesive (optional)
plank of wood
nails
hammer
silica sand
lawn seed spreader (for silica sand)
coarse broom
warm, soapy water (optional)
1: Remove existing turf
Using a spade or turf cutter, remove existing turf. Dig the soil out to a depth of approximately 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 inches. The artificial grass will need to sit approximately 1/2 inch above any edging.
2:Protect your turf from weeds
In order to prevent weeds from growing up through the turf and causing it to buckle or disfigure, lay a sheet of weed-suppressing membrane over your lawn space, and cut it to shape using a utility knife.
3:Apply a layer of sand.
Apply a thin aggregate layer of sand, crushed stone or grit over the membrane. Compact it to create a solid base. This layer will provide you with a firm, well-draining surface that will support the rest of the materials.
4:Create an even surface
Once the layer of aggregate is in place, apply a 1/2- to 3/4-inch (1 to 2 cm) layer of sharp sand. Compact the sand and level it, smoothing the surface using a piece of wood or a flat board with a level.
5:Put down a layer of shock-absorbent material
This step is optional, but you may want to consider it to give the grass more cushioning. Square the sheet with one corner of the lawn, then cut it to shape using a utility knife.
6:Consider the space you are working with
If you are covering a large area and need to put two widths together, apply a thin layer of adhesive on the surface beneath the joint to stop the two pieces from shifting or buckling.
7:Remove the grass-free border from the artificial turf
This step does not apply to all brands of artificial turf. If necessary, remove the border from the edge of the grass, cutting carefully along a bubble level to achieve a straight line, leaning on a plank of wood to ensure that you do not damage the turf.
8:Align the grass
Align the grass to a corner or straight edge if possible. Push the artificial grass tight into the corner to ensure that the turf is rolled out squarely and to prevent it from moving later.
9:Cut the turf to the shape you want
Wait until the artificial turf is in place and completely covers the desired area. Use a utility knife to cut along the edges, and use a bubble level as a guide if you do not have a brick edge to work from.
10:Nail the grass into place
First, make sure the grass is the correct shape and size. Start by securing each corner, then insert nails every 12 to 16 inches along each edge. Use adhesive if you are covering a vertical surface.
11:Apply a layer of silica sand
Apply a thin layer of silica sand directly to the lawn surface. Use a spreader to ensure even coverage. This will help to provide a stabilizing effect on the artificial grass and will help to prevent it from moving.
12:Brush the sand into the grass
Using a coarse broom, brush the sand into the grass. The grass will require little upkeep, although if the blades become flattened, lift them by sweeping them with a broom. If necessary, wash with warm, soapy water.
