How to Install Artificial Grass? Astro Turf Installation

Our handy guide on how to install artificial grass can really help you to create that perfect lawn. Please note that this guide is based on a current natural grass base and this is the Lion Lawns way of doing the project, there are other ways to install artificial grass however we find this the best and most sturdy way so your lawn lasts 15-20 years! After all, we are built on quality.

Removal of the Existing Turf

The first step in installing artificial grass is to remove the previous natural grass. We always recommend doing this with a specialist turf cutter so that the surface remains level and can be rolled away easily. 50mm should be dug down to allow room for the materials later.

TIP: Think you don’t need a skip? Even the smallest of areas are likely to need a skip. Soil is incredibly heavy and unfortunately it cannot go in your normal green waste bin. There are certain recycling areas around the country that will take your soil however a skip is a much more hassle free-way and less messy too. So, make sure you budget for skip hire.

Plastic Edging and Weed Membrane

Now we start preparing the base. A high-quality weed membrane should be used for this; previous natural grass surfaces tend to me more weed-prone so the membrane will prevent weeds growing through. A plastic edging should be used (we recommend Marmax) around the edge of the area where the artificial grass will go. Plastic is much more flexible than the traditional timber edging and won’t rot either. The edging is crucial for the process as the artificial grass will be screwed into it to secure it down.

Compaction of Crushed Limestone Base

Then comes the crushed limestone which should be used to fill in the space. Other materials can be used for this but we find crushed limestone the best way. This should then be compacted together using specialist machinery to create a smooth surface, which will help to avoid ripples in the grass.

Cutting in the New Artificial Grass

Now we can get to the good bit! After the base has been prepared and feels sturdy enough, you can begin cutting your artificial grass to shape. It will be much easier if your grass is in one piece however it can be joined too. Artificial grass usually comes on standard 4m widths, so if your garden is larger than that on one side you will need a join. Specialist tape and glue can be purchased to do this. As mentioned previously, the grass needs to be secured into the plastic edging using specialist screws.

Silica Sand Infill

Some installers use screws to secure the grass, others use infill. However, we use both so the surface is as secure as possible. The sand should be infilled at a rate of 5kgs for square metre. This acts as a weight for the surface but also protects the artificial grass and allows the blades to stand upright.

Beware: Some artificial grass types claim to not need to be infilled, these may have a reduced lifespan.

Voila!

And here we have it

Lion Lawns can supply all materials for your install and we can complete the installation for you, should you live in and around the Teesside/North Yorkshire area.

Furthermore, we can provide installation guides for artificial turf, call us today to get yours on 01642 713 555