DIY Turf Installation in Colorado Springs: What Most People Get Wrong

Thinking about installing artificial turf yourself in Colorado Springs? DIY turf installation can save you money upfront, but it’s easy to make costly mistakes. This guide breaks down the most common errors homeowners make — and how to avoid them — so your turf looks great and lasts for years.

Installing synthetic turf yourself can seem like a smart way to cut costs — and for the right homeowner, it can be. But the reality is that turf installation is more technical than most people think. At Dominion Turf, we’ve helped fix dozens of DIY projects that went sideways due to overlooked details.

Here’s what most people get wrong with DIY turf installation in Colorado Springs — and how you can get it right.

1. Skipping Proper Base Preparation

The mistake:
Too many homeowners lay turf over existing soil or compacted dirt. This leads to drainage issues, uneven surfaces, and turf that shifts over time.

The fix:
Excavate at least 3–4 inches of soil and replace it with a compacted base of crushed rock or decomposed granite. This creates a solid foundation and prevents pooling water or soft spots.

Pro Tip: Use a plate compactor to get the base as firm and level as possible.

2. Forgetting About Drainage

The mistake:
Without a well-graded base, water can pool under the turf — especially after heavy Colorado snowmelt or thunderstorms.

The fix:
Ensure the sub-base is sloped away from your home for drainage. Most professional turf installs also include a layer of weed barrier that allows water to pass through but prevents vegetation growth.

3. Choosing the Wrong Turf Type

The mistake:
Not all turf is created equal. Using the cheapest option may result in a lawn that mats easily, feels rough underfoot, or doesn’t hold up to foot traffic or pets.

The fix:
Choose turf based on how you plan to use the space:

• Soft, cushioned turf for kids’ play areas
• Dense, durable turf for dog runs
• Heat-reflective turf for sunny backyards

Visit our Turf Types page to compare options.

4. Poor Seam Work

The mistake:
Turf rolls must be seamed together — and if not done properly, the joins are visible and may separate over time.

The fix:
Use high-quality seam tape and turf adhesive. Align grass blades carefully so seams blend in. We recommend using 6″ of seam overlap and applying adhesive evenly to avoid gaps or bubbles.

5. Not Securing the Turf Edges

The mistake:
Loose turf edges can curl, shift, or become tripping hazards over time.

The fix:
Bury the edges with landscape staples or secure them with concrete curbing. For high-traffic areas, consider using galvanized nails every 4–6 inches around the perimeter.

6. Skipping the Right Infill

The mistake:
No infill means your turf won’t stay upright, drains poorly, and may overheat in summer.

The fix:
Infill materials (like Envirofill or HydroChill) help with:

• Blade support
• Cooling
• Odor control (especially for pet turf)

Dominion Turf includes infill with every installation — and we recommend it even for DIYers.

7. Not Accounting for Colorado’s Climate

The mistake:
Installing turf in winter or during rain leads to poor compaction and adhesive failure.

The fix:
Install turf during dry weather (spring through early fall is best). Make sure the base is completely dry and the temperature is above 50°F for optimal adhesion.

Considering DIY? Start with the Right Tools

Here’s what you’ll need for a successful install:

• Turf cutter or utility knife
• Plate compactor (rentable from most hardware stores)
• Turf adhesive and seam tape
• Landscape staples or nails
• Wheelbarrow and shovel
• Infill material
• Garden hose for clean-up

Need materials? Dominion Turf offers DIY Turf Kits for Colorado Springs homeowners — with local delivery and expert guidance available.