How to Install Artificial Turf
Remove 4”-6” of dirt below the level at which you want the turf. Beware of irrigation and electrical lines which may be located under the project area. Either completely remove sprinkler lines or remove and cap sprinkler heads. Cap sprinklers at the pipe level as opposed to the rising to avoid any leakage that may occur between the two.
After removing the dirt, compact the soil using a 5000lb plate compactor. This will increase the soil’s load-bearing strength and prevent settling. Then, install a weed barrier on top. If desired, lay down gopher wire and use landscape staples to hold it in place. Do not install plastic under the turf as it will entrap water, causing other problems.
Place base material over the weed barrier and compact it in 3”-4” increments. Water can be added to assist in compaction. Once again, use a 5000lb plate compactor to compact the base. The base material should be a crushed gravel that varies in size from ¾” to dust and may be fortified with a small amount of cement to stiffen after installation. Ensure you slope the base away from the house and towards drainage area.
Ensure to measure the project area and carefully design the layout to minimize the number of seams in the turf. Unroll the turf and stretch across the top of the prepared base. Make sure not to drag it across. If the synthetic turf has a wrinkle; allow it to acclimate in the sun. Due to the natural direction of the turf blades, separate pieces of turf must be laid in the same direction.
Cuts can be made using a long pile carpet cutter or a carpet knife. All cuts must be made from the backside of the turf. This will ensure you see the stitched rows.
Secure the turf by staking the edges with 6 inch nails. Place the nails six inches apart. Nails used in the field should be applied as necessary to prevent movement of turf.
You can choose the seam 2 straight edges together or use the “S” cut method using a custom stencil. Either way, make sure the stitch lines match so the seams will be practically unseen. The “S” cut method is more advanced but may give you a more natural appearance. Once seams are cut, pull both pieces of turf back exposing the base. Place seam tape with half of the tape under each cut. Use synthetic turf adhesive and apply to the seam tape. Fold the two turf sections over the tape to form one seamless piece. Secure seams with U-nails spaced six inches apart.
Tucking the turf involves hiding the edges of the turf against any hardscape or edging boarder by using a wonder bar. This side edging gives the turf a good clean plush look.
Spread Wonderfill material evenly utilizing a drop spreader commonly used to spread grass seed. Do not install infill while wet. Once all sand is spread evenly on top of turf, it will need to be broomed into the turf fibers. Use a power broom to lift the turf blades and settle the sand. When complete, water the entire area evenly to settle the material. This helps the blades stand upright and gives the turf more weight.
The final grooming step involves power brushing the turf once again to force Wonderfill granules into the base of the turf for settling and stability.
