Artificial turf has become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and businesses looking to have a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn. Turf is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional grass that offers many benefits, such as reduced water consumption, eliminating the need for fertilizers or herbicides, and minor maintenance requirements. With artificial turf, your yard will look perfect year-round, and you won’t have to worry about mowing or weeding it. The best part is that you can consider DIY turf installation for an easier and more cost-effective approach.
DIY turf installation can be a great way to save money on lawn care, water bills, and more while adding some greenery and life to your outdoor space. However, knowing the right tips and tricks to install turf by yourself is important for it to last long-term.
Step 1: Plan and Prepare the Area for DIY Turf Installation
If you’re looking to install turf in your yard do-it-yourself style, the first step is preparing and planning properly the area for turf installation. This includes accurately measuring the space you plan on covering with turf, removing any existing vegetation or debris from the surface of your soil, and leveling out any bumps or dips in your yard.
It’s also essential to ensure there are no drainage issues in this area before beginning a turf project by yourself. You may need to add topsoil, sand, or gravel to the site to create a more level and even surface for your synthetic turf.
Step 2: Choose the Right Turf for DIY Installation
Before you get started, you must work with a trusted supplier like Dominion Turf Company in Colorado Springs to pick the best turf for your project. Choose turf with color, thickness, and softness that fits your needs and have it delivered to your home or location. When selecting turf for your DIY install, you should also consider foot traffic, climate/weather conditions, light exposure, drainage capacity, pet and child safety, and warranty coverage. Our commercial warehouse in Colorado Springs provides a range of synthetic turf options, all of which are toxic free and durable for kid and pet play areas.
Furthermore, different types of turf have different qualities and characteristics that can affect their longevity and performance over time. From durability to water resistance, understanding how each type of grass performs will help ensure you make the best choice for your lawn and budget.
Step 3: Measure the Amount of Synthetic Turf Needed
For accurate measurements of you, DIY turf installation begins by calculating the area of your yard. Measure the length and width of feet to determine square footage, then multiply those two measurements. Once you know the square footage of the area, add 10-15% more turf than required for a margin of error. This will be handy if any part of the installation is too large or small or needs to replace the turf.
Additionally, consider the slope of your yard when determining the amount of turf required for installation. If there is a slope in your yard, you may need to add more turf due to extra cutting and trimming to make sure it fits properly.
Step 4: Gather Tools to Install Turf DIY
Tools you need for DIY turf installation are shovels, rakes, trowels, edging tools, a turfing knife, and turf. You can also purchase some string for mapping out your footprint. Standard practice would then be using a 4″medal edge around the footprint. All these tools are available at most hardware stores and garden centers.
Step 5: Lay Turf and Secure it in Place
The key to a successful DIY turf installation is to first lay the turf properly and secure it in place. Be sure to measure the area where you will place the turf and mark it off with stakes or string. Make sure that you are creating an even surface to lay your turf.
Next, place the turf on the area and line it up correctly. Secure the turf in place by fastening it down with spikes or pegs along the edges. Finally, use a lawn roller to press down the turf and ensure it is entirely secure before using it.
Step 6: Maintaining and Caring For Your New Turf Lawn
Finally, after a day of hard work, your DIY turf installation is complete! It’s essential to give it the proper care and maintenance to keep your lawn looking smooth and beautiful for years. Our teams at Dominion Turf Company in Colorado Springs specialize in synthetic turf installation and repairs.
The best maintenance tips for synthetic turf to keep it looking new is to rinse it off occasionally to keep it clear of dirt and other abrasive particles or pet waste, use a plastic rake or bristle brush to fluff the blade and clear leaves and other debris, and always clean up after your pet promptly to avoid odors and stains. We sell specialized turf wash that we recommend you keep on hand to clean and sanitize your synthetic turf yard!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Artificial Turf
Ensure you thoroughly read the manufacturer’s instructions, as every turf product differs. Irregular cutting and stretching of the turf can negatively affect its quality. Pay attention to how you are laying it down – whether using sand fill or rubber infill, lay it evenly and ensure no air pockets form around the edges. Don’t skimp on the base layer – a properly prepared base is essential to ensure your DIY turf installation lasts.
When to Consider Professional Turf Installation
DIY turf installation can save money and time while also providing a great way to customize the look of your yard. However, there are certain times when it is best to consider professional turf installation instead. Professional installers, like our turf company in Colorado Springs, have years of experience and know-how that will ensure a successful outcome.
In addition, we have access to specialized tools that make the job easier and more efficient than attempting a DIY project on your own. Finally, installing large areas of turf can be stressful and time-consuming to install on your own, whereas a professional install team can make the job go much quicker.
In conclusion, although a DIY turf project can be rewarding and cost-effective, it is essential to remember that professional turf installation may be the best option for specific situations. Professional installers have years of experience and access to specialized tools that can make a successful project much easier and faster than if attempted on your own. Therefore, if you are considering a large area or need more confidence in your DIY skills, contact Dominion Turf Company for reliable and efficient installation.
