Preparing For Synthetic Turf Installation

In many climates, the practical benefits of synthetic turf far outweigh the advantages of natural grass. Synthetic turf installation is very similar to paving stone or outdoor stone slab installations in some ways. It is something that can be done incorrectly if the installation team is not experienced or thorough enough, it requires specific tools and specialization, and this makes a huge difference in the lifetime and appearance of the final product. Though most people shouldn't attempt their own synthetic grass installation even if they have access to the materials and tools at an affordable rate, there are several things homeowners can do to prepare themselves for the installation and help make the process faster and more effective.

The first thing anyone considering purchasing turf for their home should do is learn about the installation process, what it will do to change the yard area, and what new materials and elements will be brought into the home as a result. The main benefits of artificial turf also indicate some of the basics of how it has to be installed. It eliminates concerns about bugs, mud, dirt, most germs, keeping the lawn mowed, fighting weeds, watering to keep it alive, and pesticides used to fight bugs, weeds and germs. To stay looking great, fight or prevent all these problems, and survive the weather it has to be installed just right. First, the current grass and dirt underneath has to be removed so that it can be leveled and then molded to support proper drainage. Otherwise puddles could develop, encouraging bugs and mold, and potentially putting extra strain on the infill leading to more frequent replacement.

Then, after lining the intended area effectively and installing weed guard, the turf gets measured, cut, laid down, glued, nailed in, and finished. This is a very important step as mistakes here could impact how well the turf maintains its look and performance after a few seasons of winter cold and summer heat. The final step is putting the infill in to help support the blades and add the feeling of substance that makes artificial grass a believable substitute. And of course, because there are no organic compounds going into the installation, it consumes virtually no water after installation, eliminating maintenance watering that can be costly or impossible in some climates. The infill is also what keeps germs down because it features antimicrobial technology. This actually makes it safer for kids to play on than real grass in many cases.

Clearly, installation doesn't require or even benefit very much from the help of the homeowner. Almost every aspect of every step requires an experienced hand. But especially at the beginning when the crew has to remove the old sod to make way for the synthetic turf installation, there are other things the homeowners can do to prepare and speed this process up. Removing everything from the lawn itself, especially animal droppings, makes the experience less unpleasant for the workers and means they don't have to spend extra time worrying about lawn furniture. Similarly, if the team is going to use a Bobcat to do the majority of the excavation, basic steps like clearing a path will make installation day go more smoothly. And because the crew will use simple tools like a hose at various points in the process, being available to answer questions without getting in the way is helpful.

Creating the right environment for a speedy, smooth synthetic turf installation benefits everyone involved and decreases the time until you can begin enjoying your new green space.


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Getting synthetic turf installed is a big step. Preparing the home and the family for the change can make the transition smoother and easier.