If you’re thinking about doing a DIY install of an artificial lawn in Adelaide then it’s important to understand how to get the job done. It’s a great feeling to do the job yourself and easier than you’d think, plus doing it yourself could save you a lot of money on hiring a professional installer but it’s important to make sure you do your research so you get the job done right and don’t accidentally void any warranties.
Follow this guide for installing an artificial lawn in Adelaide and get a great finish.
Pre-installation
Before you install your artificial lawn in Adelaide make sure you check for any underground hazards such as water pipes and electric lines. You should make sure that your sprinklers are covered up and protected and that any drainage pipes you might need are added to the area so that water can easily be drained out. Remove any unused sprinkler and try to even out any surfaces. Make sure electric wires are protected and kept out of the area, you don’t want to accidentally damage them with your faux turf.
Prepare the area
Ground preparation is an important step. First, you should make sure any weeds are removed. Start by spraying the weed killer at least two weeks before you plan to install your artificial lawn in Adelaide. Next, you should remove the top layer of your soil to make room for your new base, afterward, you should walk over the surface and apply pressure to any loose soil. You will also need to think about drainage, it may not be a problem if you have well-drained soil but if drainage is an issue then you’ll want to leave space for drainage along the perimeter of your faux turf. Next, you should install a bender board to ensure that your turf will be neat and cleanly aligned, this acts as a guide so that your faux turf doesn’t creep out of the area you plan to lay it in. You may also want to install a weed barrier if that’s an issue.
Lay your base
The first thing you’ll need to do when you lay your base for artificial lawn in Adelaide is put down a good sub-base material. For milder climate stone, gravel or rock are appropriate. The sub base can help to improve drainage and should help to avoid slumping and other issues. Next you’ll need to add sand and ensure that it’s smoothed and firm under foot. Once you’ve done that you should water the whole area and compact it with a plate compactor. Your base at this point should be around 90% of the original depth of your grass area. Once everything is level and compacted you’re ready to lay down your faux turf.
Lay your turf
Before you start laying it make sure you plan out its placement, all the blades of grass should be facing in the same direction. Once you’re ready to go roll it out and measure out where cuts need to be made. After you’ve measured cut it out and roll it out on the installation surface. A carpet stretcher can help you to stretch it out and reduce any issues with wrinkling. Once it’s laid down seam it all together and stitch it up. Go around and hammer nails into the ground every few inches or so to fasten it all into place. Next, you should trim down any unwanted grass or untidy edges.
Final grooming
Once it’s all installed go around and brush out the turf so that it looks filled in and natural. Clear out any debris with water and a leaf blower and use a broom or brush to manage any highs or lows on your artificial lawn in Adelaide.