Artificial Turf Installation Manual
Introduction
Welcome to Turfgrasswholesale.com!
We’ve created this comprehensive DIY guide for individuals interested in installing artificial turf. This manual is organized into four key sections: Getting Started, Preparation, Installation, and Care. While the process may initially appear complex, installing artificial turf can be straightforward with proper planning and execution.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team for assistance.
Disclosure
This guide is intended for individuals or contractors performing self-installations of artificial turf. Turfgrasswholesale.com provides this information as a general reference and does not make guarantees or warranties regarding installation outcomes. Specialized turf types or unique installations may require professional assistance.
Installation Conditions
Optimal Temperature: For best results, install artificial turf when the temperature is 60°F or higher. This ensures the material remains pliable and easier to work with.
Tools Required
You may need the following tools for your artificial turf installation. Many of these items can be rented from local home improvement stores:
Cutting Tools: Carpet cutting knives, trimming shears, razor knife
Measuring & Marking Tools: Measuring tape, spray paint, chalk line
Preparation Tools: Shovel, hoe, sod cutter, landscape rake
Compaction Tools: Plate compactor, vibratory roller, hand roller
Installation Tools: Trowel, roof flashing tape, carpet kicker, nailer boards, or pole-barn nails
Finishing Tools: Leaf blower, broom, push rake
Determining Size and Weight
Size: Artificial turf typically comes in 15 ft widths (or 12 ft widths for putting greens) and up to 200 ft lengths. Measure the area by multiplying the longest width by the longest length.
Example: A 30 ft by 60 ft yard requires 1,800 sq ft of turf.
Consult a sales representative for advice on minimizing seams and maximizing efficiency.
Weight: The turf weighs about 0.5 lbs per sq ft. To estimate total weight, divide your total square footage by two.
Example: 1,800 sq ft of turf weighs approximately 900 lbs.
Bordering Options
Create a polished look by selecting a border that complements your landscape. Common options include:
Decorative rock
Mulch
Trek boards or nailer boards
Bender boards
When installing around trees, bushes, or utilities, mark a 6-inch radius around the base of these items to leave the area uncovered.
Turf Direction
Artificial turf fibers are directional. Decide on the desired direction of the fibers and ensure that all seams follow the same orientation. Failing to maintain consistent fiber direction can result in a mismatched appearance.
Ground Preparation
1. Measuring and Outlining
Mark the area using landscape stakes or irrigation flags and outline the turf’s placement with spray paint or chalk.
2. Removing Topsoil
Use a sod cutter, hoe, or shovel to remove existing vegetation and topsoil to a depth of 2-3 inches. In colder climates, remove up to 4 inches to accommodate additional base material.
3. Rough Grading
Grade the area using a landscape rake. Lightly water and compact the area with a plate compactor or heavy roller until achieving 80-90% compaction.
4. Weed Prevention
Apply a weed killer and consider adding a weed barrier fabric for long-term prevention. Trim the barrier material to fit the marked area.
5. Edging Installation
Install your selected edging material to define the project’s boundaries.
Base Preparation
1. Base Material
Use ¾-inch to ¼-inch crushed drain rock for drainage. Avoid rounded rocks like pea gravel, which do not compact well.
Common names: Crushed stone, decomposed granite, Class 2 Aggregate.
2. Base Depth
Standard depth: 4 inches
Arid climates: 2 inches
Cold climates: 4 inches or more
3. Applying the Base
Spread the base material evenly, compact it to 90%, and ensure the surface is smooth. Fill depressions with screening or stone dust, compacting as necessary.
Turf Installation
1. Laying the Turf
Roll out the turf on a clean surface and allow it to acclimate for 24 hours to prevent wrinkles.
Ensure that all turf pieces are aligned with the fiber direction.
2. Cutting the Turf
Use a carpet-cutting knife to trim the turf to fit your layout. Ensure seams are tight without overlapping.
3. Seaming the Turf
Lay seam tape along the marked seams, secure it with nails and apply adhesive. Align the turf edges carefully, avoiding overlaps or gaps. Use a heavy roller to press seams and ensure adhesion.
Infill Application (Optional)
Distribute infill evenly with a drop spreader or broadcast spreader.
Brush or comb the turf between layers to distribute infill uniformly. Repeat until achieving the desired level (typically 1-2 lbs per sq ft).
Hose down the area to settle the infill.
Note: Do not apply infill when the turf or material is wet.
Perimeter Securing
Secure the perimeter with 6-inch galvanized nails spaced 6-10 inches apart. Alternatively, excavate a trench around the edge, bury the turf, and backfill with base material or decorative elements.
Final Touches
Clean the area with a leaf blower, broom, or rake to remove debris and help turf fibers stand upright.
Turf Care
Regular Maintenance: Blow off or rake debris as needed. Every three months, brush against the grain with a push broom to stabilize fibers.
Cleaning: Use water or mild detergent for spills and odors.
Temperature Management: In hot climates, water turf surfaces to cool them down for children and pets.
By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking artificial turf installation that enhances your outdoor space. For further guidance or questions, contact our support team!