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Curious About Installing Artificial Grass? Here’s What to Expect
Thinking about ditching your old lawn for some fresh, hassle-free artificial grass? Great choice! But if you’re not sure what the whole installation process looks like, don’t sweat it—we’ve got your back. Here’s a laid-back, step-by-step rundown of what happens when we install your new grass, so you’ll feel confident and ready every step of the way.
1. Initial Consultation and Planning
We start every project with a consultation—either in person or virtually, depending on your location and preference. This is our chance to discuss your needs, see your space, and answer any questions you might have. We’ll talk about:
- Your Vision: Whether you’re looking for a lush lawn, a kid-friendly play area, or a pet space, we’ll discuss your goals.
- Measurements and Site Assessment: We’ll measure your yard and assess the conditions, including soil type, existing drainage, and sun exposure.
- Material Choices: We’ll guide you through selecting the right type of artificial grass and infill materials for your space. We’ll also discuss the option of adding shock pads if safety is a priority for you.
This consultation is also when we provide you with a clear, detailed quote that outlines everything from materials to installation costs—no hidden surprises.
2. Preparing the Site
Once we’ve settled on the details, it’s time to prepare your yard. This is a crucial step in ensuring your new lawn not only looks great but also functions well for years to come. Here’s what happens:
- Removing Existing Grass and Debris: We’ll start by removing the existing grass, plants, and any debris in the installation area. This step includes digging down several inches to make room for the new base layers.
- Grading and Leveling: Proper grading is essential for drainage and the overall appearance of your lawn. We’ll level the area and ensure it slopes away from structures to prevent water pooling.
- Installing the Base Layer: A compacted base layer of decomposed granite is added. This layer is compacted to create a stable, permeable foundation that supports the artificial grass and ensures excellent drainage.
3. Installing Shock Pads (Optional but Recommended)
If safety is a concern, particularly for play areas, we may install shock pads before laying the grass. These pads act like cushions under your artificial grass, providing extra impact absorption to help reduce the risk of injuries.
4. Laying the Artificial Grass
Here’s where it all starts to come together:
- Rolling Out the Grass: We roll out the artificial grass over the prepared base, making sure it’s positioned correctly to minimize seams.
- Trimming and Securing: The grass is then trimmed to fit your specific layout, including around edges, curves, and any existing features like trees or planters.
- Seaming and Joining: If your project requires multiple rolls of grass, we expertly join them using industrial-grade seaming tape and adhesive to ensure they stay in place without visible gaps.
- Securing the Edges: We secure the perimeter with landscaping nails or other appropriate methods, ensuring that the edges stay down even with heavy foot traffic.
5. Infill Application
The final layer of infill is crucial—it keeps the blades upright, adds weight to the grass, and improves overall durability. Depending on your needs, we might use sand, crumb rubber, or other materials. Here’s how we handle it:
- Even Distribution: We evenly distribute the infill material across the entire surface using specialized tools. This step adds weight to the turf, keeping it stable and enhancing its appearance.
- Brushing the Grass: After applying the infill, we use a power broom to brush the grass blades upright, giving your lawn that lush, natural look.
6. Final Inspection and Clean-Up
Before we call it a day, we’ll walk through the finished project with you to ensure you’re happy with every detail. We take care of all the clean-up, leaving you with nothing but a beautiful, ready-to-use artificial lawn.
7. Ongoing Care and Maintenance Tips
While artificial grass requires minimal maintenance, we’ll provide you with tips to keep it looking its best. Simple tasks like occasional brushing, rinsing, and checking drainage after heavy rains can keep your lawn in top shape.
Learn More!
Thinking about making the switch to artificial grass? The FieldTurf Landscape team is here to make it happen seamlessly, from the first consultation to the final reveal. Whether you’re full of questions or ready to dive in, we’re just a call away. Call us at 866-352-4575 or message us to book your free consultation today!