Synthetic Grass DIY Installation Guide[ Disclaimer ] Synthetic
Lawn Installation Step 1.Area layout, grass ordering and stripping
the existing material
Using a rope or garden hose as your proposed border, layout the
area in which you want to install your synthetic lawn. Try several
different locations at different times of the day to be sure you
choose the one that best suits your needs. Choose any design you
like, but remember that synthetic turf arrives rectangular in shape
and in approx 3.7m widths. This may also be the time to change the
contour of your yard. Be sure to allow for drainage, run-off, wet
or shady areas, etc... when laying out your yard. Only a small
amount of water will drain through the grass as most of it will
drain off like it would from pavers or a concrete slab. Ensure you
order the correct amount of grass, backing tape and glue. Map out
the area to scale on graph paper. (Remember the synthetic grass
rolls are approx 3.7m wide). Map out the grass pieces you will need
over your sketch to scale and make sure the grass is all laying in
the same direction. For example if you have a piece left over that
will fit into an area, the fibres of the grass on the roll will
have a "direction" to them, and all the pieces must lay in the same
direction as the rest of the grass. You are essentially working out
how many lineal metres of grass you will need to cover your area.
Remove all the vegetation and other debris down to the bare earth.
Rotting grass today may cause unwanted dips tomorrow. Sprinklers
may be capped or removed at this time. Synthetic Lawn Installation
Step 2.Installing a crusher dust base, compacting and optional
edging
It is recommended that you install the synthetic turf on a
compacted crusher dust base or on an existing concrete slab.
Depending on your existing sub base, a minimum of 50mm of crusher
dust (after compaction) is recommended. In sandy or clay
conditions, you may wish to use a thicker base. If you are in
doubt, please consult your local landscape yard or landscape
architect for base materials recommended for your area. Care should
be taken to choose a material that is free of large stones and
should be graded and compacted to as smooth a finish as possible.
The product should be composed primarily of crushed stone, with
enough fine sand to assure compaction and stability. Be sure to
compact the base several times and dampen the crusher dust prior to
packing.
Plate compactors and additional tools can usually be hired by
the day. Remember - your goal is to make the base as hard as
possible. You should compact the base at least twice and dont
forget to make sure you have enough fall on the base to allow water
to drain.You may wish to install optional edging. Consider brick,
decorative or natural stone, timber, flexible
plastic or metal edging. The top of the edging should be at the
proposed finished elevation of the base to prevent trapping water.
Synthetic Lawn Installation Step 3.Lay out your Enduroturf
synthetic lawn
Once the base work is completed, roll out the turf AWAY from the
site and cut to length as needed 1 piece at a time. Make sure that
where multiple pieces of turf are being used, they are laid with
the pile pointing in the same direction. Cut turf to fit where
necessary. This can be done with a sharp utility knife and a new
blade. Cut the turf to fit around trees, flowerbeds and landscape
islands, etc... If you change your mind at this point or make a
mistake, don't worry. Simply use the seaming method described below
to put turf together where you want it. In areas larger than 3.7m
in width, where two pieces of synthetic turf must be seamed
together, you will need to ensure you have ordered seaming tape and
outdoor quality seaming glue. It should be noted that turf joined
together using the correct method should look seamless. Once you
have finished laying out your turf, step back and survey the
landscape. Be sure your turf is in the right placement. If you find
that your layout isn't right, change it now before commencing with
the joining method described below. Synthetic Lawn Installation
Step 3a.Synthetic lawn seaming method
If a join is required butt both synthetic grass surfaces
together ensuring the pile is running in the same direction, then
fold back each side approx 30-40cm
along the length of the join. Unroll the join tape along the
join line on the ground, ensuring equal tape on each section. Apply
the adhesive along the joining tape approx 20cm width. Fold over
one side of the artificial grass on to the join tape. Then start to
fold over the second side, ensuring no tufts of grass are crushed
under the join and keeping the join tight together. Once complete,
it is a good idea to weigh down the join with bags of sand to
ensure it sticks. Most glues should take in approx 30 minutes.
Synthetic Lawn Installation Step 4.Install the fill material
Now it's time to install the fill material. Different grass
types require different infill levels, some lawn styles do not
require rubber so check first. Your first job is to gently spread
sand across the entire area. Typically this sand is
thrown/sprinkled or lightly spread across the area as evenly as you
can. You are aiming to infill approx 1/3 of the pile height with
sand. After spreading with a shovel, you will need to broom against
the grain to allow sand to fall between the blades of grass. Make
sure you keep the grass fibres upright during this process. You
will need a stiff bristled 'street' broom.
Take your time - Make sure you do not simply dump sand in any
one spot as you will crush the grass fibres down and then getting
the sand in and the turf back up is very challenging. This process
will take 2 or 3 attempts to get levels right. DO NOT try to spread
the sand all in one go. Once you have spread the sand to approx 1/3
of the height, it is now time to spread the rubber in the same
method (if required)
Distribute rubber over a wide area and broom it in using the
same method as above. Again, be sure to put down a little bit at a
time as dumping out large quantities will flatten the turf.
Continue to distribute rubber and fluff the lawn until the desired
amount of fill is installed (around another 1/3 of the height). The
fill you install today is going to compact somewhat with rain and
use over time.
And that is it. You should now be the proud owner of the nicest
lawn on the block.What you will need to complete the job:o o o o o
o o o
@6kg dry sand per sq. metre Stanley knife with a NEW blade
Shovel Rake Stiff-bristled street broom Spirit level Screed
Wheelbarrow
Additional items you may need to complete the job:o o
Enduroturf outdoor adhesive glue @6kg rubber granules per sq.
metre
o o o o o
Seaming tape Plate compactor Turf cutter Dingo/mini dingo Skip
bin
Synthetic GrassBunnings has a wide range of synthetic lawn
available. It's a UV-stabilised product that's stain-resistant and
non-rot. It can be laid over concrete, timber, metal or firmly
packed earth. A great outdoor alternative - and best of all, it's
very simple to lay!
1
Preparing the surface Remove all existing grass and weeds by
scraping with a metal garden rake. Use a pick to dig out the tough
weeds and any surface tree roots.
2
Clean up the edging Scrape away the existing ground to about
20mm below the finished height of any adjoining paved areas or
garden edging.
3
Compacting the soil The subsoil should be dampened lightly with
water before being compacted. Use a whacker packer or garden roller
to do the job effectively.
4
Adding the roadbase Spread a layer of roadbase, or crusher dust,
to about 15mm deep. Distribute it evenly with a steel rake then
sprinkle with water before compacting with the whacker packer.
5
Laying the turf Fill any surface dips or hollows with fine sand.
Lay out the first roll of turf, allowing overhang at the ends. This
will later be trimmed to match the contour of the paving.
6
Cutting to size Trim the turf roughly around any garden edges
and move it into position. Then use a utility knife, with a new
blade, to trim accurately around the edges.
7
Laying the second roll Lay out the second roll of turf and trim
to size. Fold back the edge and apply an even coat of adhesive,
such as Dunlop Artificial Grass Adhesive, to the seaming material.
Use a 3mm notched trowel for uniform coverage.
8
Invisible Seams Wait for the adhesive to become slightly
stringy, then bring the two sheets together. Make sure there are no
turf fibres trapped in the seam as you smooth the sides down.
9
Anchoring the turf Use 150mm irrigation pins around the
perimeter of the turf, and space them throughout the area in a
600mm grid. Push fibres of turf away from under the pins so they
sit flush with the surface.
10
Casting the sand Cast a layer of dry, white, washed sand over
the turf with a shovel. This weights the turf to keep it in
position and assists with drainage.
11
Sweeping in the sand Distribute the sand evenly with a yard
broom, sweeping against the direction of turf fibres. Cast more
sand and repeat the process until the sand is about 10mm deep. This
is also the perfect time to practice your chipping!
12
Forget watering Put away the watering can, as the
natural-looking turf will stay this way for years. Just use a rake,
broom or outdoor vacuum to keep it tidy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJSMQmoQJHU
No Worries Turf is affiliated and working in partnership with
professional landscapers and gardeners who specialise in
installation services. You are most welcome to utilise their
expertise and services but if you decide to give it a go yourself
then this is what you will need to do: PLANNING The area for turf
installation should be clearly defined and marked, if necessary. In
this planning stage, it should be noted which direction the turf
rolls will be laid out. Always run the grain of the turf against
any slope , if possible. Also, note the borders of the turf and
determine which edging or curbing technique will be used. SYNTHETIC
GRASS INSTALLATION Synthetic turf should be installed on a
compacted base of fine crushed rock at least 50mm thick (more if in
a sandy area). All joins should be attached using Joining tapes and
adhesives. Importantly the turf should be in filled with a mixture
of SILICA sand (not washed sand or brickies sand) and/or rubber
granules to at least HALF WAY. Once installed properly you should
not be able to pick up the turf. A solid compacted base is vital,
but more importantly the correct amount of fill is vital. The fill
not only helps keep the grass upright, but also protects it from
UV. Sand fill on its own will compact over time and make the area
very hard, and pure rubber will eventually wash away and leave no
fill.*Please note, a natural consequence of a roll of turf is the
look of creases due to compression in packing and delivery.
However, the creases will naturally straighten out after a few hot
sunny days after laying the turf. To make it easier for you to
install the turf, it is recommended to unroll the rolls and leave
them unrolled for a couple of days, which will help the turf relax
and straighten out. Furthermore, infill helps to secure the
integrity of the strand.
1) Mark off the area that you will install with an outdoor spray
can marker. Consider the dimensions of your Turf to try to get as
few seams as possible with your layout.
2) Remove sod, you will need to remove approximately 50mm100mm
of soil. Ideally, the sub base will be pitched slightly towards the
best direction to allow for water drainage to run-off. Also, after
the sub base and the Turf are installed, you will want to have the
edges of the Turf at an even level with the natural landscape.
3) Cap Sprinklers. Turn off valves, compact existing ground to
"firm it up fully" (you can rent a vibrating plate compactor at
most rental centers). Spray weed/grass killer and place a weed
barrier mesh down (not always necessary in all areas). 4) Sub-Base:
It is very important to ensure the sub-base is completely dry
before laying any crushed rock to reduce settling and ensure proper
compaction for the surface. Once you confirm that the subbase is
dry, add a top layer of crusher dust or a 5mm crushed rock (these
types are best so you don't feel any protruding rocks when you walk
on your Turf) ask your local garden supplier or nursery what
material local landscapers use under paving bricks, etc. The
purpose is to firm and level your base,
50mm -100mm of base is usually enough, although in some areas of
the country where soil is especially unstable you may need up to
100150mm of base material; just ask a local expert like a nursery,
landscape center, or rock yard if you are not sure. *** Please note
if more than 75mm of base material is used, you will also need to
increase the amount of soil removal. 5) Spread, and then compact
the sub base material twice. Use the vibrating compactor again. 6)
Finishing Sand layer (not always required if crushed rock is
adequately smooth). Spread a fine layer of sand (approx. 25mm using
just an ordinary seed drop spreader) on the surface to make it more
level, bags of "play sand" are available at garden suppliers, some
hardware
stores. You may also use a water-filled sod roller for an even
more level surface. 7) Check surface for depressions. Any
depression areas 10mm20mm or deeper should be filled-in and
re-leveled. Although the turf also drains vertically through the
drainage holes that are manufactured in the turf, it is still
advisable to give the sub-base a slight slope, to avoid any pools
of water (slope away from buildings). 8) Roll out Turf. Position
the turf where it goes, be accurate (so you don't cut off turf you
actually need). Note: Try to avoid dragging the turf as this may
dislodge some crushed rock or sand. 9) Cut the turf. Cut off excess
material so it's easier to work with. Always use a sharp blade in
your utility knife! Make sure turf is still positioned where it
goes.
Now, trim turf more exactly with straight lines. For optimal
performance and beauty, make sure the turf is installed exactly
over the prepared base. 10) Seaming. Where two pieces of turf come
together you will need to make a seam. You can always pay a local
synthetic grass installer or carpet layer to help you for a few
hours with this process if it makes you feel more comfortable
although it usually isn't necessary for most. The seams are simply
glued together with outdoor turf adhesive and 150mm wide seaming
tape. At the joining seam, a 150mm wide piece of seaming tape
should be cut to the length of the seam. The turf is to be laid
seam to seam the way that it should look to ensure it fits tightly
together before it is glued. Note: The pattern of turf
stitching
on the underside must run in the same direction before the two
pieces are adhered. Both sides of the turf at the seam must be
pulled back in order to install the seam tape. Note: Before
adhering both pieces ensure that both edges have been properly
trimmed, straight, and will match up perfectly. Lay the seam tape
down on the base directly between the two pieces of turf that are
to be joined. Apply gluing compound to the entire piece of seam
tape with a notched trowel. Place one side of the turf in the
middle of the tape (approximatel y 150mm) to the centre of the
tape. Lay the other side of the turf over the middle of the seam
tape to match up exactly to the turf that has just been adhered to
the tape. Mesh the fibers together with fingers or brush. Note:
Allow 24 hours for glue
to properly dry. The following procedures can be administered
during the drying time, but turf may shift and require
repositioning. 11) Infill Preparation. Once glue has dried, trim
off turf so your lawn fits as desired. Next, it is a good idea to
nail the perimeter every 500mm800mm with steel pegs (80-120mm
length). In order to prepare to infill the turf, rake or power
broom the turf in the opposite direction that the turf is laying on
the roll. This will allow the infill material to infiltrate the
turf rapidly and prevent turf blades from getting trapped in the
infill. The infill process will now commence using a standard seed
drop spreader with either sand or crumb rubber as an infill. The
infill helps to weigh the turf down, and stabilize the fibers so as
to help avoid
"matting". Most use sand infill as it is the least expensive
compared to rubber infill. Of course rubber is more shock absorbent
than sand, so choose what you can afford and prefer, although it is
advisable to have at least the top half in rubber infill. You want
to calculate the amount of infill in advance, as you will want to
leave around 15mm of grass blade exposed. As a general rule of
thumb, approximately .75 of a kilogram of sand equals around 10mm
of infill height. Spread the infill in several passes. As you
spread the infill you should make one entire pass on the surface
then sweep it down into the fibers, repeating the process until all
of your infill has been spread.
12) Optional Edging. Depending on your yard, you may want to
install some type of edging material around your new lawn. Examples
are natural stone, brick, rock borders, metal edging, plastic
edging and timbers edging (similar to what is used around flower
beds) are popular. Congratulati ons!!! The installation is
complete!
Synthetic Grass Maintenance Compared to natural grass,
artificial grass maintenance is a breeze. After installation has
been completed, there are no more worries about mowing, weeding,
fertilizing, or regular watering. Even still, synthetic grass is
not entirely maintenance free. Artificial Grass Maintenance: Remove
Debris Regularly Your synthetic grass should be kept as free from
debris as possible. This includes leaves, animal waste, and smaller
objects like discarded paper wrappers and branches. Inspect your
lawn regularly for these objects. Remove them by hand or use a
plastic garden rake. Never use a metal rake. It is also safe to use
a leaf blower on synthetic grass. Artificial Grass Cleaning For
homeowners who live in areas where it rains periodically, rainwater
will usually be sufficient to remove dust and bits of soil from the
synthetic grass. If desired, the area can also be hosed down
periodically. Clean up after your pets by removing solid waste as
you normally would. Wash off any remaining debris with a hose.
However, if there has been no rain for a long time we suggest you
prevent pet odours and dirt by spraying the turf with Simple Green
or a ?green? household cleaner and thoroughly wash down the area
with a hose. If there are stains that
cannot be removed with water alone, a mild detergent may be
used. Gently wipe the surface until the stain is removed. Solvents
or harsh chemicals should never be used to remove stains.
Artificial Grass Maintenance: Considerations for High Traffic Areas
Synthetic grass installed by a knowledgeable professional will be
quite durable. However, it is important to keep a close eye on the
areas of the lawn that receive the most traffic. Two problems in
these areas are common. First, the fibers can become flattened over
time. To remedy this, use a brush to return the fibers to their
original position. Brush them in a number of different directions
for a more natural look. Secondly, the infill under heavily-used
sections can become compacted, resulting in noticeable depressions.
To fix this, all that is needed is some infill and a stiff brush.
Simply apply infill to the depression and work it in using the
brush. Continue to add infill until the surface is once again
uniform. Professional Artificial Grass Maintenance Removing debris,
inspecting high traffic areas for depressions or flattened fibers,
and artificial grass cleaning are all tasks that can quite easily
be handled by the homeowner. However, there are times when it is
advisable to call in a professional. If large portions of your
synthetic grass lawn are flattened, it will likely be too
time-consuming to fix this problem with a hand-held brush.
Similarly, if your lawn requires major repairs, you would like to
change its appearance, or you want additional synthetic grass
installed, a professional is your best bet. ?Hard work never killed
anybody, but why take a chance??,Unknown.
1. 2.
Measure the area. Frame the area with a 2"x4" edging. Leave a
1/8" space between edging and existing hardscape.
2Remove 2-3" of soil. Tamp.
3.
3
Install a base of either decomposed granite, road base, pea
gravel, or a combo . Tamp.
o
It should be installed in such a way that there is a slight
crown in the middle which ensures proper water run-off
4.Lay a root barrier over the entire area.
4
5.Place the turf down.
5
o
If needed, seam two or more sections of the turf together.
6.
6
Tuck the edges in the space between edging and hardscape .
7.
7
Install fill material (various sands, small rocks, stone dust
and compounded earth) . These help keep your grass blades rooted
and lifted
Full Installation or DIY Synthetic Grass Full Installatio n:Lush
Turf Solutions is your one stop shop for Synthetic Turf supply and
installation. Our experienced installers will ensure your project
is completed to our exacting standards. We will visit the site and
measure the area in the most cost effective way to lay the
Artificial Grass for a professional finish.
D.I.Y.
If you prefer to tackle the project yourself we are happy to
supply the Synthetic Grass, Joining tape The images below will give
you an idea of the installation process we supply more detailed
instructi
Pick Up or Delivery?We can arrange delivery nation wide or you
can pick up from our Warehouse. Call us for a freight estimate.
Pick ups from our warehouse require a few hours notice so we can
have your Artificial Grass ready to go.
Site Preparati onThe method of site preparation depends on the
surface on which the Artificial turf is to be laid. In most cases
when installing the turf over concrete, pavers, tiles or timber
there is no need for a crusher dust sub base. When laying over
natural ground remove any existing vegetation and debris so you
start with a clear site.
Levelling, Spreadin g& Compacti ng crusher dustEnsure your
levels are correct & create a slight fall to aid drainage.
Crusher dust should be at least 50mm deep. Use a rake or spreader
bar to spread the crusher dust as even as possible. Finally,
compact the area using a Plate Compactor or roller until the
crusher dust is evenly compacted forming a hard even base. A good
indication that the crusher dust is well compacted is by leaving
little or no footprint when walked on. Lightly dampening the
crusher dust as you are compacting will help achieve this
result.
Laying Artificial GrassWhen laying Artificial Grass decide which
way you want the pile to run and ensure all pieces are laid running
in the same direction. Mark out the area and roll out the
Artificial Turf. Make cuts using a stanley knife, (hook blades are
best). Once in place anchor the bottom of the grass first and use a
carpet kicker to flatten out any ripples before making final cuts
around obsticles. Securing with galvanised pins around the edges
every 600mm or so.
Joining & GluingBefore applying glue create a dry join by
butting the two pieces of synthetic rass against each other to
ensure they line up. Next, put the joining tape underneath both
pieces of synthetic turf so it is evenly spaced under both sides.
It helps if you use a pin to secure the tape at both ends so it
doesn't move when spreading the glue. Fold back each edge of the
grass and using a brush or spreader apply a liberal amount of glue
to the joining tape. Apply glue to the full length of the tape and
allow the required time for tacking as per instructions on adhesive
can. Fold the edges back to the centre so the grass forms a good
join. If any glue spills onto the fibres clean with a cloth
dampened with Methylated Spirits.
Maintenance
Now that your Synthetic Grass is securely laid, brush up the
pile using a firm bristled brush. Try not to di adhesive
manufacturers prior to brushing to ensure adhesion has settled.
Remove any fallen leaves or oth plastic rake. An occasional brush
now and then to spruce up the pile. Sit back and enjoy the benefits
of lo years. \