Rolling fake grass directly onto your soil might seem like a quick and easy solution for a lush, green lawn. However, laying artificial grass isn’t just about rolling it out and hoping for the best. Instead, you need a well-prepared base so the turf stays put, drains properly, and looks flawless for years. Skip the groundwork, and you’ll be left with an uneven, shifting surface that wears out far too soon.
Here’s everything you need to know about creating a smooth, professional finish that stands the test of time.
Remove The Topsoil
The first step is to remove the top layer of soil by digging down at least 75–100mm, ensuring that any weeds, organic matter, or loose dirt won’t interfere with the stability of your new lawn. If this soil is left in place, the ground can shift over time, leading to lumps, dips, and poor drainage. You can also install a weed membrane to prevent future growth beneath the turf.
Level And Grade The Surface
Next, you need to level and grade the soil to create a smooth foundation and ensure proper drainage. A gentle slope away from buildings or patios is ideal, allowing rainwater to drain naturally instead of pooling in certain areas. A perfectly level surface also prevents the turf from shifting or developing wrinkles over time.
Lay A Crushed Rock Base
Once graded, you need to add a layer of crushed rock or road base to a depth of around 50-75mm for most installations, but for high-traffic areas, you might need a thicker base. Once this is spread out, you need to compact it using a plate compactor or roller. This step ensures a firm, even surface that won’t shift underfoot. Proper compaction also helps improve drainage, preventing water from pooling on the surface of your synthetic lawn.
Install An Underlay
An underlay is optional but highly recommended because it provides extra cushioning, making the surface softer underfoot, and can also help improve drainage. Underlays are particularly useful for families with kids or pets, as they add a layer of protection that makes artificial grass even more enjoyable to walk and play on.
Laying The Turf
With the base fully prepared, it’s time to roll out the artificial grass. Here’s how to get it right:
- Align The Turf – Place the synthetic grass where it will be installed, ensuring the pile (grass fibres) faces the same direction as this helps create a consistent, natural look.
- Cut And Fasten – Trim the edges to fit perfectly within your space using a sharp utility knife. Once cut, secure the turf in place with turf pegs, adhesive, or joining tape where needed.
- Check The Seams – If joining multiple sections of turf, ensure the seams are well aligned and fastened securely to avoid visible gaps.
Apply Infill And Brush The Fibres
The final step when installing artificial grass is applying an infill, which helps keep the turf in place while also adding weight for stability. Once spread evenly across the surface, use a stiff brush or power broom to lift and straighten the grass fibres. This simple finishing touch gives your lawn a natural, lush appearance.
Enjoying A Perfect Synthetic Lawn
Installing artificial grass correctly ensures a beautiful, long-lasting result that requires minimal maintenance. So, don’t be tempted to lay it directly onto your soil – take the time to prepare a proper base as this gives you a perfect low-maintenance lawn that enhances your outdoor space.
