How to Install Fake Turf on a Dirt Surface

If you have been trying for a long time to grow your lawn without making much headway, and you have tried fertilizing or watering to no avail, you can try artificial grass. After January 2011, when San Francisco put their water-efficient irrigation requirements in place, it became harder to maintain a natural lawn. 

Using artificial turf installation eliminates the need for water. What's more, the fake turf products available today use recycled products to make eco-friendly phony grass. This article will teach you everything you should know about artificial turf, and how to install them in your home. Read on to discover more. 

The process of installing artificial grass is not a difficult one. It involves:

1. You will first need to get rid of the sod using a sod cutter along with 3-4 inches of soil beneath the grass. You can also use a shovel to scrape off the top grassy dirt layer.
2. It would help if you covered the lawn area road rock. Then it would be best if you used a shovel to spread the rock to where you want it to be. For a large lawn, you can rent a skid-steer loader.
3. Using a plate compactor, proceed to pack the rock into position. For a small lawn, you can use a hand tamper when you want to level the stone. You should ensure that there is a slight grade so water can run off away from the house.
4. If you have plans, apply one layer of pet waste absorber at the rate of ½ pound per square foot. Use the compactor in packing the absorber.
5. Protect the lawn by covering it with weed barrier fabric and overlap the seams by 6-12 inches. Drive 20d nails all around the edge of the material to fasten it in place.
6. You can now unroll your fake turf. First, spread it in the sun for two hours at the least, so the blades of grass have time to relax from shipping.
7. Using a utility knife, cut the selvage edges away from the artificial grass. Before doing this, expose the back by pulling the hem over and counting three rows away from the edge.
8. Move the fake turf into the desired position, just sliding it. Be sure to leave room along the edges for trimming. Make sure that all the sides of the grass are together if you must piece it.
9. Every 3-4 inches along the perimeter of the grass, place 40d nails. In the center, set the nails 12-24 inches apart and along the seams, place them every 1-2 inches. Be careful not to catch any grass with the nail's head and avoid placing nail heads below the surface.
10. Using a power broom, go over the turf so each blade of grass stands up properly and so you can remove any unwanted debris.
11. Use the filler recommended by the artificial grass manufacturer and sprinkle it using a drop spreader. This filler is necessary to hold the grass in position and provide a soft surface for you to walk on.

Conclusion

Installing a fake turf is relatively cheap and eco-friendly because it helps conserve water and is easy to install.