At Artificial Grass Gold Coast, we help businesses and homeowners achieve beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor spaces. Our team ensures every installation is efficient and durable, leaving clients satisfied with their results.
This guide explains each step of yard preparation, from assessing soil conditions to selecting materials. Follow these tips for a hassle-free installation.
Planning and Preparation
1. Evaluate Your Yard: Understanding Ground Types
Assessing your soil type is the first step in preparing your yard for synthetic turf. This ensures the base preparation meets your yard’s specific needs.
- Clay-heavy soil: Add sand or gypsum to improve drainage and prevent water pooling.
- Sandy soil: Compact the soil to ensure it stays stable over time.
- Rocky soil: Remove large rocks and level the ground to create a smooth foundation.
Drainage Matters
Proper drainage prevents issues like pooling and mold. Use crushed rock or sand to create a drainage layer in areas prone to water retention.
2. Tools and Materials Checklist
Using the right tools makes yard preparation efficient and effective:
- Essential Tools: Spade, rake, plate compactor, lawn roller, edging tools.
- Optional Tools: Leaf blower, spirit level, power broom for a polished finish.
- Sub-Base Materials: Crushed rock for stability, fine crusher dust for leveling.
- Eco Tip: Use recycled materials for an environmentally friendly installation.
3. Decide: DIY or Professional Installation
Installing synthetic grass yourself can save money and be satisfying, but some situations call for professional help.
- DIY Pros: Save costs, enjoy flexibility, and achieve a sense of accomplishment.
- DIY Cons: Requires time, proper tools, and knowledge of ground preparation.
- When to Hire Experts: Hire professionals like Artificial Grass Gold Coast for complex drainage issues, uneven terrain, or limited time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Ground
1. Clear the Area
Start by clearing the yard to create a clean surface for installation.
- Remove Existing Grass and Weeds: Use a spade to dig out grass, weeds, and roots. Apply a non-toxic weed killer for persistent growth.
- Remove Debris: Clear rocks, sticks, and anything disrupting the surface.
- Tip for Wet Soil: Let the ground dry before digging to make work easier.
Add a Weed Barrier
Lay a high-quality weed mat to stop future growth and keep your turf low-maintenance.
2. Excavate and Level the Ground
Excavation and leveling set the foundation for a perfect installation.
- Excavation Depth: Dig 100–130mm to make space for sub-base materials.
- Leveling: Use a rake to smooth and level the soil, removing bumps and creating an even surface. A laser or spirit level ensures precision and helps achieve a perfectly leveled base for your artificial turf.
- Sustainability Tip: Compost or recycle removed grass to reduce waste.
3. Install the Sub-Base
A strong sub base ensures your synthetic turf is stable and long-lasting.
Layer 1: Crushed Rock or Road Base
- Spread 50–100mm of crushed rock or road base.
- Compact the layer firmly with a plate compactor or lawn roller.
Layer 2: Fine Sand or Crusher Dust
- Add 20–50mm of fine sand or crusher dust.
- Screed the surface with a straight edge for precision leveling. Compact again for a firm base.
Ensure Drainage
For heavy rainfall areas, add small drainage gaps or slopes around the edges to guide water away.
4. Lay the Artificial Turf
Once the base is ready, install the turf with these steps:
- Align Turf Rolls: Lay rolls in the same direction to avoid visible seams.
- Trim Edges: Use a utility knife to cut the turf to fit boundaries.
- Secure the Turf: Fasten the edges with galvanised nails, landscape pins, or adhesive at even intervals.
- Seamless Joins: Connect rolls using self-adhesive tape or glue. Brush fibers to conceal joins.
5. Add the Final Touch: Kiln-Dried Sand Infill
Complete the installation by applying kiln dried sand:
- Why Infill Matters: It stabilises the turf, holds fibers upright, and improves drainage.
- How to Apply: Distribute 6–8kg of sand per square meter with a drop spreader.
- Final Brushing: Brush the sand into the fibers using a stiff broom or power brush for a natural, upright look.
Customisation and Special Considerations
Preparing for Pets and Kids
Synthetic turf is an excellent choice for spaces used by pets and children, with a few extra considerations:
For Pets
- Durable Sub-Base: Use compacted crushed rock or gravel to withstand wear from active pets.
- Odour Control: Add an odour-neutralising infill in areas where pets are likely to relieve themselves.
- Easy Cleaning: Choose turf with perforated backing to ensure superior drainage and quick maintenance.
For Kids
- Safety Underlay: Install a soft underlay beneath the turf to cushion falls and provide a comfortable play surface.
- Non-Toxic Materials: Use child-safe weed barriers and infills free from harmful chemicals.
- Secure Edges: Ensure all edges and seams are firmly fixed to prevent tripping hazards.
Enhancing Sustainability
Synthetic turf preparation can be eco-friendly by following these steps:
1. Eco-Friendly Sub-Bases
- Use recycled crushed concrete or gravel instead of new materials.
- Opt for locally sourced aggregates to reduce emissions from transport.
2. Water-Efficient Drainage
- Create a drainage system to manage water pooling effectively.
- Install a rainwater harvesting system to reuse runoff for other garden areas.
3. Recycling and Reuse
- Repurpose leftover turf scraps for small projects like mats or garden bed linings.
- Recycle removed grass, plants, and soil to limit waste.
Conclusion
Preparing your ground for artificial grass starts with thorough planning and proper groundwork. Clearing the area, installing a stable sub-base, and ensuring the setup is safe for pets and kids are all essential steps. Each part of the process contributes to creating a durable and visually appealing outdoor space.
At Artificial Grass Gold Coast, we help residential and commercial clients achieve beautiful results with minimal upkeep. If you’re ready to upgrade your outdoor space, contact us for reliable turf installation. We’re here to create a lush, green area that you’ll enjoy for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a drainage system under artificial grass?
Yes, a drainage system prevents water pooling and extends the life of artificial turf. Perforated backing allows water to pass through, but a well-prepared base is essential. In areas with heavy rainfall, adding crushed rock or gravel improves permeability.
2. How can I make my artificial lawn pet-friendly during installation?
To make your artificial turf pet-friendly, use a sturdy sub-base like compacted crushed rock. Add an odour-neutralising infill such as zeolite to control smells. Ensure the turf has perforated backing for quick drainage and easy cleaning. Secure edges and seams to prevent pets from lifting the turf.
3. How long should I wait after preparing the ground before installing artificial turf?
Wait 24–48 hours after preparing the ground to allow the base materials to settle. Compact the crushed rock and fine sand layers firmly to create a stable foundation. This waiting period ensures any uneven areas can be identified and adjusted before turf installation.
4. What maintenance is required for the sub-base of artificial grass?
The sub-base requires minimal upkeep but should be checked regularly. Inspect for dips or settling, especially after heavy rain, and use fine sand or crusher dust to level uneven spots. Keep drainage systems clear of debris to prevent water pooling. Routine maintenance ensures the base remains stable, supporting the turf’s durability and preventing costly repairs.
5. Is a weed barrier necessary when installing artificial turf?
Yes, a weed barrier is essential to prevent weed growth under artificial turf. Place a durable weed membrane between the soil and the sub-base to minimise maintenance and maintain the turf’s appearance. Adding a second layer of weed barrier above the sub-base offers extra protection.