Preparing the yard
Preparing your yard before installing an artificial lawn is critical to the function and aesthetic you expect from it and trying to fix the issues after laying the grass is much more difficult.
Preparing the ground for artificial grass
The first step in preparing your yard for synthetic turf is removing the existing turf and then making the ground level. Break up large clumps, cut off roots, and remove debris and pebbles. Continue to even out the ground, take out any uneven parts. Fill holes and flatten bumps. You will want gentle contours or a perfectly flat yard.
If the ground is difficult to work with, even it out using a mixture of sand and fine stone chippings. Lastly, compact the soil, as the ground will need to be firm for grass.
Things to avoid
- Stones, wood or roots showing through – this will cause rapid degradation of the turf and spoil the appearance of the finished result.
- Holes and cracks – it’s important the ground is smooth. Holes will spoil the turf and allow rainwater to stagnate, which may help mould or moss growth.
- Uneven water flow – make sure the soil allows good drainage. If the soil doesn’t allow for satisfactory drainage, before installation of the turf, spread a layer of sand to accelerate drainage.
Draining artificial grass
Synthetic grass will drain around 30 inches per square yard, which is a better rate than real grass. Most artificial turf is hole-punched to allow for proper drainage. The more drainage holes there are, the better the drainage.
Even with a high drainage rate of grass, the base may not have the same rate. If the area is known to have excessive flooding, place clean crushed rocks to prevent erosion of the sub-base materials. When compacted properly, these materials will retain density, allow permeability and be able to withstand excessive water penetration.
If the holes in the artificial grass are too close together it can allow contaminants to make their way through the backing of the turf. Excessive water buildup can also create issues. It can create an excellent breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. It may also lead to the growth of mould and mildew.
Cleaning artificial grass
To keep artificial grass looking great it’s important to keep up cleaning and maintenance. For the most part, this will look like lightly rinsing the grass weekly with a garden hose. However, there may be times when a little extra is needed.
Deep clean
For a deep clean start by removing dust, dirt and leaves with a flexible lawn rake, a broom with stiff bristles or even a leaf blower, then hose down the area. If it’s available, use grass cleaning products and rinse again.
Cleaning and pets
Cleaning up after pets is not always fun, but it’s definitely necessary.
Start by removing solid waste using a baggie or pooper scooper then hose down the area. Spray cleaning products where your pet urinates at least once a week and apply a turf odour neutraliser if needed.
If you want to know more about the pros and cons of artificial grass for your pets, read more here.
Or check out our Pet Premium System to get the best pet-friendly products.
Avoid stains and burns
Avoiding stains and burns on artificial grass is simple.