Installing Synthetic Grass

Synthetic grass is a beneficial alternative to real grass.  Once properly installed a minimal amount of maintenance, mostly to remove debris such a leaves, is all that is required to preserve its appearance.  It is a viable sod alternative for families with children and pets.  It can either be installed professionally or by the homeowner.

Different brands of synthetic grass products have varying techniques and products for installation, but they are all similar.  As with any product, consult the manufacturer's documentation for instructions specific to the item.  The general method of installation is straightforward.

Ground Preparation

• Ground preparation is very important to attain a quality-finished product. 


• Remove any existing sod, plant material, mulch, etc. from the area.  


• Remove 2 to 3 inches of soil.  Base will be added later to fill this space.  During soil excavation, create a slight slope in the direction that rain naturally drains.  This prevents pooling.


• Smooth out any divots or holes and level elevated or low areas to create a smooth surface.


• Replace elevated sprinkler heads with caps and turn off sprinkler valves.


• Use a tamper or compactor to compact the surface and prevent settling.


• Spray the surface with weed killer.  For an extra growth barrier, cover the area with weed mat (optional).

Gravel Base

• Spread 1/4 inch minus (this is the size) crushed rock aggregate to the area. Limestone base provides good percolation, but consult a local aggregate retailer for the best available product.


• Use a rake to distribute, smooth and grade the aggregate into the drainage slope created during the preparation process.


• Lightly spray the aggregate with water in order to achieve maximum compaction.


• Firmly pack the aggregate with a tamper.  Electric or gas powered tampers will take several passes to thoroughly compact the material.  The finished base height must be roughly 3 inches thick.


• Allow the base to dry completely.


• If there are any low areas or imperfections in the surface, repeat the process until the issues are resolved.

Turf Layout

• Plan the turf layout so as to minimize waste around beds, trees and other structures. Synthetic grass generally comes on rolls and has a "direction" or gain.  Therefore, each roll must face the same direction; turning pieces to fill a small area will create an unnatural pattern.


• Roll the grass out over the installation area, taking care not to drag or slide it.


• Use a sharp utility-type knife or carpet knife to trim around obstacles.

Seaming

• The turf edges to be seamed must be straight and fit together tightly.  The grain on each piece of turf must also face the same direction.


• Some manufacturers recommend placing landscaping pins or spikes at intervals along seams in conjunction with the seaming tape.  These pins are used with weed mat and are sold at landscaping retailers and home improvement stores.


• Cut a piece of seam tape the length of the seam. 


• Gently roll back the edges of the turf and place the tape directly on the base, where the seam will be.


• Some tapes contain their own adhesive and some require the installer to spread the adhesive compound on the tape with a trowel.


• Roll the edges of the turf into place on top of the tape and press into place.


• Gently brush the turf fibers to mesh them together and visual evidence of the seam.


• Pre-glued tape must be tamped to ensure adhesion.  Installer applied adhesive requires a minimum of 24 hours to cure.

Infill

• Crushed rubber infill provides a cushier surface, but sand is also effective.


• Once the adhesive has set, use a seed/fertilizer spreader to apply infill.  Walk the entire area lightly spreading the infill. 


• Use a stiff broom to brush the surface and incorporate the infill into the grass fibers.


• Repeat the process until the infill reaches almost 5/8 of an inch below the top of the grass.