How to lay artificial grass on grass
You can lay artificial grass over existing grass by first killing the existing lawn, then preparing the base. This involves removing thatch, leveling the ground, and adding a layer of aggregate for drainage before laying the turf. Proper preparation ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Laying artificial grass directly over an existing grass lawn is a common DIY project. The key to success lies in thorough preparation. You’re not simply covering the old grass; you need to ensure the existing vegetation dies and decomposes, and that you create a stable, level base for the artificial turf. This process prevents the old grass from growing through your new synthetic lawn and ensures proper drainage.
Before you begin, gather your tools. You’ll need a sod cutter or a sharp spade, a heavy-duty garden rake, a wheelbarrow, a level, a tamper (manual or rented power tamper), a utility knife with extra blades, a stiff-bristled broom, a measuring tape, and a shovel. For the artificial grass itself, you’ll need weed barrier fabric, crushed stone or granite (typically 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch aggregate), and the artificial turf rolls. You might also need infill (like silica sand or specialized granules) and joining tape or adhesive if your area requires multiple pieces.
Kill the existing grass
The first crucial step is to kill the existing grass. You can do this chemically with a glyphosate-based herbicide or mechanically. If using a herbicide, follow the product’s instructions carefully and allow sufficient time for the grass to die completely. This usually takes one to two weeks. Ensure the product is safe for use around pets and children if applicable.
Alternatively, you can use a sod cutter to remove the top layer of turf. This is more labor-intensive but immediate. Set the sod cutter to remove only the grass and a thin layer of soil, about 1 to 1.5 inches deep. You can dispose of the sod or use it for composting. If you don’t have a sod cutter, a sharp spade can also be used to manually slice and lift the turf, though this is significantly more strenuous.
Prepare the base
Once the grass is dead or removed, you need to prepare the underlying soil. Rake the area thoroughly to remove all dead grass, thatch, weeds, and debris. If you removed the sod, you’ll be working with the exposed soil. Aim for a relatively smooth and firm surface. Fill in any low spots with soil and compact them.
Install a weed barrier
Lay down a layer of high-quality, permeable weed barrier fabric over the entire prepared area. Overlap the edges by at least 6 inches to prevent weeds from growing through the seams. This fabric is essential for stopping persistent weeds and also helps to stabilize the base layer. Secure the fabric with landscape staples or heavy objects temporarily while you add the next layer.
Add and level the aggregate base
The next step is to add a layer of crushed stone or granite aggregate. A typical depth is 1 to 1.5 inches. This layer provides essential drainage, preventing water from pooling on your artificial turf, and creates a firm, stable foundation. Spread the aggregate evenly across the weed barrier using a rake. Use a level and a tamper to ensure the surface is smooth, compacted, and perfectly level. This is critical; an uneven base will result in an uneven artificial lawn.
Lay the artificial grass
Carefully unroll the artificial grass over the prepared base. Allow the turf to relax and acclimate to the temperature for a few hours, especially if it’s been rolled tightly for transport. This helps to reduce wrinkles and makes it easier to handle. Position the turf so that the ‘grain’ or pile direction faces the primary viewing angle.
Cut and trim the artificial grass
Use a sharp utility knife to cut the artificial grass to fit your desired shape. Cut from the back of the turf for cleaner edges. Make small, precise cuts to follow borders and curves. If you have multiple pieces of turf, ensure the seams align perfectly. For seams, you’ll typically use specialized artificial grass joining tape and adhesive, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Secure the artificial grass
Once the turf is cut and in place, secure the edges. You can do this by burying the edges slightly in a trench around the perimeter, or by using landscape spikes driven through the turf backing into the base. For a truly professional finish, especially on hard surfaces or where edges might lift, a frame or perimeter anchoring system is recommended. Ensure all edges are firmly secured to prevent lifting or shifting.
Add infill
The final step is to add infill. This is usually silica sand or specialized granules. The infill helps to keep the artificial grass blades standing upright, adds weight to further secure the turf, and provides cushioning. Spread the infill evenly over the surface using a spreader or a stiff-bristled broom. Work it into the blades until it’s distributed evenly. The amount of infill needed varies by turf type, so consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Final brushing and cleanup
After infill, brush the artificial grass with a stiff-bristled broom or a power brush (rented) to help the blades stand up and create a natural look. Brush against the grain initially, then with the grain. Clean up any debris and excess infill. Your new artificial grass lawn is now ready to enjoy.
Common Mistakes When Laying Artificial Grass Over Existing Grass
| Step | Typical Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|---|
| Killing Existing Grass | Not killing grass thoroughly | Ensure grass is completely dead (brown and dry) before proceeding. If using chemicals, wait for full effect. If cutting, ensure the sod cutter removes the root system. |
| Preparing the Base | Skipping the weed barrier | Always install a permeable weed barrier to prevent future weed growth through the turf, which is difficult to remove. |
| Aggregate Base | Insufficient base depth or poor compaction | Use at least 1 to 1.5 inches of aggregate. Compact thoroughly with a tamper to create a stable, level surface. Insufficient depth leads to sinking and unevenness. |
| Cutting Turf | Cutting too much at once or not aligning seams | Measure carefully and make small, precise cuts. Align seams precisely; a poorly aligned seam is highly visible and detracts from the natural look. |
| Securing Edges | Not securing edges properly | Ensure all edges are firmly anchored. Loose edges can lift, creating tripping hazards and allowing weeds to creep in. Use spikes, burial, or anchoring systems as appropriate. |
FAQ
How to do artificial grass
To install artificial grass, you must first prepare the ground by removing existing vegetation and creating a level base. This typically involves killing grass, laying a weed barrier, adding a compacted layer of aggregate, and then rolling out, cutting, and securing the turf. Finally, infill is added and brushed in for a natural look.
How to lay artificial turf grass
Laying artificial turf grass involves preparing the sub-base, which requires killing any existing vegetation. Then, install a weed barrier, followed by a compacted layer of crushed stone or granite aggregate for drainage and stability. Roll out the turf, cut it to size with a sharp knife, secure the edges firmly, and finish by adding and brushing in infill.
How do you lay artificial turf
You lay artificial turf by ensuring a well-prepared base, which means removing any existing grass or weeds and leveling the ground. A layer of weed barrier fabric and a compacted aggregate base are crucial for drainage and stability. The turf is then laid, trimmed precisely, secured around the perimeter, and finished with an infill application.
How to lay artificial grass lawn
To create an artificial grass lawn, start by killing and removing any existing grass. Prepare the soil by raking and leveling. Lay down a weed barrier fabric, followed by a 1-1.5 inch compacted layer of crushed stone. Roll out the artificial grass, trim it to fit, secure the edges thoroughly, and spread infill evenly, brushing it into the blades.
How to lay artificial grass on soil
When laying artificial grass on soil, thoroughly kill and remove any existing vegetation. Rake and level the soil surface. Apply a permeable weed barrier fabric, followed by a 1-1.5 inch compacted layer of aggregate (like crushed granite). This aggregate base is essential for drainage and stability, preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged under the turf.
How to lay artificial grass on dirt
Laying artificial grass on dirt requires preparing a stable and well-draining base. First, remove any vegetation and debris from the dirt surface. Install a weed barrier fabric, then add and compact a layer of aggregate (crushed stone or granite) to a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches. This aggregate layer prevents the dirt from becoming muddy and ensures proper drainage beneath the turf.