If you are not happy with your grass lawn, or if you feel sad that the fall is coming and may further damage your lawn you have another option.

Installing an artificial lawn can transform your garden for the better as well as reduce your maintenance costs and time. There are different types of the turf, too.

So, how is the artificial lawn installed? The simplest way to do it would be to have an expert, such as RALCO Landscapes & Maintenance, come in and do it for you. However, if you are feeling ready for a DIY project, make sure that you have all the materials you need, and you are ready to go.

Materials

Apart from the artificial turf itself, you will need some crushed stone or sand for the base, as well as some underlying coverings. These covering are optional, but they can prevent the growth or weeds and absorb impacts, so the turf will feel more comfortable to walk on.

As for the tools, you will need a spade and a wheelbarrow for the dirt, as well as a level and a utility knife for cutting the turf to measure. Other things, such as the silica sand and a plank of wood are optional, but they can come in handy.

Remove the Real Grass

First thing you need to do is remove the existing grass. Using the spade, you should dig to about 2 inches in depth in order to accommodate for everything you will need to put in in the process.

Transport the removed turf using the wheelbarrow. You should end up with a relatively level shallow pool.

Prevent the Grass from Growing

In order to prevent any new grass forming and potentially damaging the turf, you should apply the first covering – a weed-suppressing membrane. Your utility knife should have no trouble cutting the membrane to the desired shape.

Add the Sand or Stone

In order to create a level ground, you should apply a layer of sand or crushed rock. You will also need to compact it to a solid form. With sand it is easy; just tap it with your spade or a shovel. However, if you are using stone, you may need to use some kind of machinery, like a dirt compactor for the job. You can rent it in most places if you do not own one.

It is important that you follow this step because it not only gives you a level ground, it also provides proper drainage for the whole turf, which it is unable to do otherwise.

Smooth the Surface

You can ensure that the top part of the sandpit you’ve created is flat by smoothing the surface with a large plank. This step is not essential and is more aesthetic than anything else, but if you take the time to do it properly, you will be happier with the final result.

Shock-Absorbing Membrane

Another step which is not essential, but gives a nicer feel to the finished project. It makes the whole turf feel softer, so if you have kids who will be playing there, you may want to consider it.

Simply lay it down and use the utility knife to cut it to measure.

Lay the Turf

Finally, with all of the preparations done, you can lay the actual turf. Some turfs come with borders which do not have grass on them and which need to be cut off.

Simply lay the turf as you have placed the membranes before that and cut where it needs to be cut. If you are working on a larger area, you will need to align the pieces carefully. It is strongly advised that you use some glue to connect the two pieces.

Whatever your reason for putting in the artificial turf, you can expect to have a nice green lawn all year round with minimal maintenance.