Maintaining a lawn takes a lot of time, effort, sweat, and tears. Whether you don’t have time to care for a lawn or simply don’t want to, you may find you prefer an artificial lawn. From keeping bugs at bay to never growing weeds, there are so many advantages of having an artificial lawn. If you’re ready to stop mowing for good, then read on to learn how to install your very own low maintenance artificial lawn.
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Prepare the Ground
You will need to use a little bit of muscle to prepare the ground beforehand. Excavate the ground until it reaches a depth of about 75mm. Be sure to smooth out the soil so that it lies flat. Any bumps will be seen once you place the turf.
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Create a Border
The artificial grass needs to butt up against a solid surface. If you already have a curb or other hard surface, you may not need to create a border. However, if you do not, try one of these two options:
- Wooden Batons
- Concrete Blocks
Both these hard surfaces provide enough support to affix the artificial lawn.
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Stop Weeds
Weeds are determined to grow anywhere, and you don’t want them to appear through your new artificial grass. Thankfully, if you spray weeds before laying the turf, you won’t have to worry about unwanted weeds taking over.
Experts also agree that you should lay weed fabric across the entire area. Weeds will be stopped by this fabric before they are able to grow through the turf. You won’t need to worry about pulling weeds ever again.
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Sub-Base
A sturdy sub-base is needed before the turf can be properly laid. Begin by adding a layer of hardcore to the area. This layer should be about 50mm deep. Be sure to fully compact it. A heavy roller should do the job nicely.
A layer of builders’ sand is then added on top of the hardcore. Aim for this layer to be about 25mm deep. This layer should also be fully levelled and compacted. You don’t want any bumps to show through the artificial grass.
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Lay the Artificial Lawn
Roll out the artificial grass onto the prepared sub-base. Adding another layer of weed fabric may help to prevent damage to the sub-base. If you want your lawn to feel softer, consider adding a cushioned based beforehand.
If you’re covering a large area, you may need to use several rolls of turf. Be sure to connect each piece with joining tape and adhesive. When rolling out the lawn, ensure the pile is all facing the same direction.
The turf needs to be properly cut and trimmed. Cut the edges flush the curb. If you want a seamless look, leave a little excess to wrap around the baton. Use U-pins to hold the edges of the artificial grass in place.
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Dress the Lawn
Add a bit of dressing sand to the surface. Most people find that it takes about 5kg of sand per square meter. Using a stiff broom, spread and brush the dressing sand into the artificial turf.
After you complete these steps, you’ll be ready to enjoy your new, low maintenance lawn.