Common Mistakes and Misconceptions of Do-It-Yourself Turf Installation: What You Need to Know

Installing artificial turf yourself can seem like a great way to save money while transforming your yard into a lush, low-maintenance oasis. With the rise of DIY home improvement projects, many homeowners in Colorado Springs are opting for do-it-yourself turf installation. However, while it’s an attractive option, there are several common mistakes and misconceptions that can turn your DIY turf project into a frustrating experience.

At Dominion Turf, we offer a complete DIY turf kit, delivered right to your door in Colorado Springs, designed to make your DIY installation process as seamless as possible. But after doing some research, many homeowners realize that turf installation requires more than meets the eye. If you find that the process might be too complex to tackle on your own, it might be better to let Dominion Turf handle the installation for you. Here’s what you need to know before diving into a DIY project.

Common Mistakes of DIY Turf Installation

1.) Skipping Proper Ground Preparation

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when attempting do-it-yourself turf installation is failing to properly prepare the ground. Turf installation isn’t as simple as rolling out the grass and calling it a day. The ground needs to be leveled, cleared of debris, and compacted to create a solid, even base for the turf to sit on. Without this crucial step, your turf may develop uneven spots, wrinkles, or even drainage issues over time.

At Dominion Turf, we provide guidance on the ground preparation process, but if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with this step, it may be wise to let the pros handle it.

2.) Underestimating Material Needs

Another common issue with DIY turf projects is underestimating the amount of materials required. From calculating the right square footage of turf to understanding how much infill and base material you’ll need, small miscalculations can lead to delays and additional costs.

Our DIY turf kit comes with all the materials you need, and if you’re unsure, Dominion Turf is always here to help you accurately calculate the right amount of product for your space. A quick phone call can save you from making costly mistakes!

3.) Improperly Securing the Turf

Securing the turf to the ground is another step that often trips up DIYers. Many people mistakenly think that laying the turf down is enough. However, proper installation requires securely anchoring the turf, using the correct adhesive, stakes, or nails. Failing to do so can result in your turf shifting, wrinkling, or pulling up over time, leading to an unsightly appearance and potential safety hazards.

If you’re not sure how to correctly secure the turf, it might be better to let Dominion Turf handle it for you to ensure a professional finish.

4.) Poor Seaming Between Rolls

If you’re installing turf in a large area, chances are you’ll need more than one roll. Joining the seams of different turf rolls is a delicate process that requires precision and special tools. Poorly done seams are one of the most visible signs of a DIY turf installation gone wrong. If not aligned and secured properly, the seams will be obvious, which detracts from the natural, seamless look you’re going for.

At Dominion Turf, our DIY turf kits include everything you need for a professional-grade seam, and we’re available for consultations if you need guidance during the process. However, for a truly flawless appearance, letting the experts take over might be the best option.

5.) Overlooking Drainage

Drainage is another critical factor that many DIYers fail to account for. Without proper drainage, your artificial turf can collect water, leading to flooding, puddles, or even mold growth beneath the surface.
Our team at Dominion Turf can guide you through the process of installing a proper drainage system as part of your DIY kit. However, if you’re not confident in your ability to manage this essential aspect of the installation, our professional installers can take care of it for you.

Misconceptions About DIY Turf Installation

1.) It’s Always Cheaper to Do It Yourself

While DIY projects can save you money on labor costs, many people underestimate the additional costs involved in do-it-yourself turf installation. Renting the necessary tools, buying extra materials due to miscalculations, and even redoing mistakes can add up quickly. When you factor in the time and potential stress involved, some homeowners find that having professionals install the turf is actually more cost-effective in the long run.

2.) Turf Installation is Quick and Easy

It’s a common misconception that turf installation is a quick weekend project. In reality, depending on the size of your yard and the level of ground preparation required, the installation process can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. If you’re juggling a busy schedule, you may find it hard to dedicate the time needed to get the job done right.

3.) You Don’t Need Professional Help

DIY turf installation doesn’t have to be a completely solo mission. At Dominion Turf, we’re here to assist every step of the way. Our DIY turf kits are packed with everything you need, and our experienced team is just a phone call away to answer questions, offer advice, or provide a second opinion on your progress. We can even deliver all the materials right to your door in Colorado Springs, so you don’t have to worry about transporting heavy rolls of turf.