FieldTurf for Home Installation: DIY Design Phase Blueprint 

Installing FieldTurf artificial grass for homes is a smart way to upgrade your outdoor space. While it’s possible to achieve a flawless DIY installation, getting the design right is a huge part of the process. 

It sets the stage for a smooth installation and helps ensure your artificial lawn looks amazing and functions perfectly for years to come. Let’s get you started with this quick guide to planning your synthetic turf installation.

Why You Should Take Your Time with Artificial Grass Design

Think of the design phase as the blueprint that guides your entire project. A well-thought-out design ensures that you:

• ● Maximize Material Usage: Strategic planning helps you order the right amount of artificial grass and other materials, minimizing waste and saving money.
• ● Achieve Seamless Aesthetics: Considering factors like grain direction ensures a natural and uniform look. 
• ● Manage Drainage: The drainage system is one of the most important parts of installing artificial turf for homes. Without proper drainage, all sorts of issues could pop up, like flooding, 
• ● Craft a Plan: Proper planning guarantees your lawn won’t become a waterlogged mess during heavy rains. 
• ● Anticipate Challenges: You’ll identify existing sprinkler lines, protruding roots, or other obstacles early on. All of these need to be removed or adjusted in order to create a smooth and level foundation for artificial grass.

3 Design Considerations for Artificial Grass

1. Measurements and Layout: Precision Is Key

Accurate measurements and a well-conceived layout are the cornerstones of your artificial grass project. Remember the golden rule: measure twice, cut once. This applies to installing artificial turf for homes as well.

• ● Grab your tape measure: Measure the entire project area meticulously. Sketch a detailed diagram and double-check your measurements.
• ● Plan the Turf Layout: Consider the grain direction of your artificial grass. Aim to minimize seams and ensure all turf sections run in the same direction for a cohesive appearance.

2. Drainage: Ensuring a Healthy Lawn

Even artificial lawns need proper drainage to avoid issues like standing water and uneven settling. Consider how your yard currently handles water and make adjustments if needed.

• ● Evaluate Existing Drainage: Observe how well your yard drains naturally. Standing water will damage your artificial grass and can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
• ● Plan for Drainage Solutions: You may need to grade your lawn to create a subtle slope, install French drains, or add catch basins to manage runoff.

3. Soil Condition and Prep: Creating a Solid Foundation

The type and condition of your existing soil will dictate how much preparation is needed before installing the artificial grass base and turf. Take the time to get this step right.

• ● Test Your Soil: Is your soil compacted or loose? Address any compaction issues and remove large rocks or debris that could compromise your final result.
• ● Moisture Matters: Wait for excessively wet soil to dry out. This will ensure proper compaction of your base materials and prevent future settling issues.

3 Integrating Essentials and Aesthetics

1. Irrigation Systems and Utilities: Protecting the Essentials

Knowing where your existing irrigation and utility lines are is crucial before any excavating work begins. Take this step seriously to avoid costly and dangerous mistakes.

• ● Map Your Irrigation System: Locate all existing sprinkler heads, drip lines, and bubblers. If you have plants that still need watering, you may need to modify your irrigation system.
• ● Call Before You Dig: Contact your utility providers to have underground lines marked, preventing damage and potential hazards.

2. Damage Prevention: Thinking Ahead

Protective measures during the design phase can save you significant headaches down the line, whether deterring rodents or safeguarding your lawn from playful pets.

• ● Deter Rodent Visitors: Consider laying galvanized mesh before your base material, which will prevent burrowing critters from damaging your lawn.
• ● Safeguard Against Pets: Secure the perimeter of your turf with bender board or treated lumber to deter dogs from digging and protect your investment.

3. Design Elements and Borders: Creating a Cohesive Look

Planning how your artificial lawn will integrate with existing landscape features adds polish and avoids awkward transitions. Factor in borders for a clean, finished appearance.

• ● Work with Existing Features: Plan how your lawn will interact with patios, walkways, and other elements.
• ● Add Borders and Edging: These materials define your lawn and prevent base material from migrating. Install borders before laying the turf for accurate measurements and minimal adjustments.

Learn More

Remember: If any part of the design phase feels overwhelming, call us at 866-352-4575 or message the FieldTurf Landscape team anytime. DIY installers are some of our favorite customers! We’d love to help you with anything you need, from installation guidance to selecting the right products and finding a FieldTurf Landscape dealer near you.