Installing artificial grass is a great way to achieve a low-maintenance, green, and vibrant lawn that stays beautiful year-round. However, for the installation to be successful and durable, it’s essential that the process is carried out properly by experienced professionals. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect when you hire artificial grass fitters to transform your outdoor space.
1. Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
Before the installation begins, professional artificial grass fitters will typically visit your property for an initial consultation. During this visit, they will assess the size and shape of the area where the grass is to be installed. This is also the time to discuss your preferences, such as the type of artificial grass you want, the look you are aiming for, and any special requirements like pet-friendly turf or drainage solutions.
The fitters will:
- Measure the area: To determine how much turf is needed.
- Inspect the ground: To evaluate the condition of the existing surface and identify any issues that may need addressing, such as uneven terrain, poor drainage, or existing plants and debris.
- Offer advice: Based on their expertise, they may suggest adjustments to improve the final result, such as enhancing drainage or changing the turf material to suit your specific needs.
2. Preparing the Ground
Proper ground preparation is key to a successful artificial grass installation. The fitters will start by clearing the area of any old grass, weeds, or debris. If the site currently has natural grass, it will be removed, along with any stones or roots that could affect the turf installation.
The steps involved in ground preparation include:
- Removing existing vegetation: This might involve digging up any old turf, plants, and weeds. If weeds are present, some fitters may apply a weed killer to ensure they don’t grow through the artificial grass.
- Leveling the surface: The fitters will ensure the ground is even and smooth. This might involve filling in low spots with soil or gravel and compacting the surface to provide a solid foundation.
- Adding a sub-base: A sub-base is laid to promote drainage and support the artificial grass. Typically, this consists of a layer of crushed stone or gravel, which is then compacted to create a firm, stable base.
- Installing a weed barrier: To prevent future weed growth, a geotextile fabric or weed membrane will be laid over the sub-base before the artificial grass is installed.
The goal is to create a surface that is level, stable, and free from debris or contaminants that could affect the appearance or performance of the artificial grass.
3. Laying the Artificial Grass
Once the ground is prepared, it’s time to lay the artificial grass. The fitters will unroll the artificial grass across the prepared area, ensuring it is positioned and cut to fit perfectly. Here’s what happens during this phase:
- Cutting the turf: The artificial grass is cut to fit the dimensions of the area. Fitters will carefully trim the grass around edges, curves, or obstacles like trees, flower beds, or pathways. Precision cutting ensures that the turf fits seamlessly into the space.
- Aligning the fibers: The grass fibers need to be brushed in one direction to give a natural look. Fitters will ensure the fibers are standing upright and pointing in the right direction for a uniform appearance.
- Securing the edges: The turf is then securely fastened around the edges to ensure it doesn’t shift. This is done using either a combination of nails, pegs, or adhesive, depending on the specific requirements and the type of surface being worked with.
- Joining seams: If multiple pieces of artificial grass are used, the fitters will carefully join them together. The seams should be nearly invisible, and the fitters will make sure that the grass fibers are aligned to create a natural, seamless finish.
4. Infill Application
After the grass has been laid, a layer of infill material is applied to weigh the turf down and keep the fibers standing upright. This infill also helps to improve drainage and maintain the turf’s stability. The most commonly used infill materials include:
- Sand: Provides stability and weight to the grass.
- Rubber: Adds cushioning and is often used for sports fields or play areas.
- Silica: Helps to prevent the fibers from flattening and maintains the appearance of the grass.
The fitters will spread the infill evenly across the surface and then use a broom or brush to work it into the fibers, ensuring the grass stays upright and the turf looks natural.
5. Final Adjustments and Inspection
Once the artificial grass is laid and the infill is applied, the fitters will perform a final inspection to ensure everything is in place. This involves:
- Brushing the fibers: The grass fibers will be brushed again to ensure they are standing upright and look as natural as possible.
- Checking for imperfections: The fitters will look for any wrinkles, gaps, or uneven patches in the turf and make adjustments as needed.
- Cleaning the area: Any leftover debris or excess materials will be cleaned up, leaving your garden tidy and ready for use.
If the turf is installed around obstacles like trees or flower beds, the fitters will ensure that the edges are neatly trimmed and that the transition between the grass and the other elements is smooth.
6. Post-Installation Care and Maintenance Tips
After the installation is complete, the fitters will provide you with maintenance tips to keep your artificial grass looking its best. While artificial grass is low-maintenance, it’s important to follow some basic care steps:
- Regular brushing: Brush the grass periodically to keep the fibers standing upright and to prevent debris from accumulating.
- Cleaning: Clean the surface occasionally to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris. If you have pets, you may need to rinse the grass more often to keep it clean and odor-free.
- Inspecting for damage: Periodically check for any signs of wear, especially if the grass is used heavily by pets or children. Professional fitters should also provide you with information on how to handle any minor repairs if needed.
7. Enjoy Your New Lawn!
Once the artificial grass is installed and properly cared for, you can begin enjoying your beautiful, hassle-free lawn. Whether you’re using your outdoor space for relaxing, entertaining, or gardening, artificial grass provides a great-looking, durable surface that requires minimal upkeep.
Conclusion
Installing artificial grass in your garden is a straightforward process when handled by professional fitters. From the initial consultation and site assessment to the final touches and maintenance tips, the installation process ensures that your new lawn will look fantastic and last for years to come. By understanding what to expect during installation, you can be more prepared and confident in the choices you make, ensuring a successful transformation of your outdoor space.