Artificial turf started as ChemGrass and has revolutionized outdoor spaces since 1964. The rates for installing artificial grass have jumped 15% since 2017 because of its practical benefits and environmental advantages. This surge in popularity has led many homeowners to consider synthetic grass installation for their properties.
Professional installation costs between $5.50 and $18.75 per square foot, but the long-term value makes it worth the investment. While the initial artificial grass cost might seem high, the installation process eliminates fertilizers and pesticides while reducing water consumption. Your children and pets will have a safe, durable surface without the usual mess natural grass creates, making artificial grass for pets an excellent choice.
Our team will walk you through everything in professional turf installation. The process starts with expert planning and proper base preparation before moving to post-installation care. Working with professionals will give a lasting value to your outdoor space and ensure compliance with local codes. Let’s explore how to install synthetic turf with expert help and why it’s beneficial.
How expert planning sets the foundation
Professional planning is the life-blood of successful artificial turf installations. The pros know that what’s under your synthetic grass matters just as much as the turf itself. The preparation work takes up about 80% of the installation process and shapes how your lawn will look and function for years.
Site evaluation and soil testing
A full site evaluation sets the stage for installation success. The pros start by getting a clear picture of your landscape to spot any possible issues. They locate underground systems like irrigation and electrical wiring, and check for rocks or tree roots that might get in the way.
Your soil’s quality makes all the difference. The team tests soil makeup, pH levels, and how well it drains to build the best foundation for your synthetic turf. Soil with lots of silt and clay packs down too much and blocks drainage. Sandy soil drains better but doesn’t provide as much stability.
The team runs drainage tests to see how water moves through your soil. This helps them design systems that keep water flowing properly. They also look at your yard’s slopes to make sure water moves away from buildings and doesn’t create pools that could damage your property. Understanding artificial turf drainage is crucial for a successful installation.
Choosing the right turf for your needs
The market has tons of turf options, and expert guidance can make your choice much easier. The pros help you pick based on several key points:
Your turf’s intended use is a big factor in selection. Areas that see heavy foot traffic need tougher products with more material – usually 50-90 ounces per square yard. For kids and pets, the pros suggest antimicrobial turf with fully permeable backing that drains well and controls odors.
Weather plays a huge role too. Hot climate areas benefit from cooling technology in the infill to keep surface temperatures down. Places with lots of rain need fully permeable backing or “DUAL FLOW” systems that combine permeable and hole-punched designs.
The look you want matters just as much. The installation team can match your turf to nearby natural grass by adjusting things like blade length, thatch layers, and color mix. They’ll show you samples until you find the perfect balance of realistic looks and performance. This attention to detail is what sets apart the best artificial grass from standard options.
Expert planning builds a solid foundation that helps your artificial turf last longer and work better. Working with pros who know these ins and outs saves you from expensive mistakes and keeps your synthetic lawn looking great for years.
The turf installation process made easier
Professional turf installation makes a complex process simple and straightforward. Expert installers with specialized equipment can complete projects quickly. They reduce installation time by 40-60% compared to DIY attempts. Let’s break down how to install artificial turf with professional help.
Proper base preparation and drainage setup
The foundation work starts by removing 3-4 inches of existing grass, weeds, and topsoil. This creates space for base materials. Installers add a 2-3 inch layer of sub-base materials like crushed stone, decomposed granite, or class II road base. These materials, including gravel, create a stable foundation that your turf needs to last.
Professional teams use plate compactors to achieve 80-90% compaction rates. This prevents future settling that could create uneven surfaces or low spots. Areas with drainage needs might require perforated pipes or french drains. These can move water at rates of 28-100+ inches per hour per square yard, ensuring proper artificial turf drainage.
Precision cutting and seamless joining
A well-prepared base allows installers to focus on precise cutting techniques that create a natural look. They use sharp utility knives and professional turf cutters to make clean edges along marked lines. The process demands patience since rushed cuts lead to jagged edges and poor fits.
Professionals use three main seaming methods to join sections: straight seams, S-shaped seams, or puzzle seams. Experts prefer S-shaped seaming because these wavy-patterned joints stay hidden and offer extra strength. High-quality seaming tape and adhesive keep all connections secure and out of sight.
Safe and secure anchoring techniques
Good anchoring keeps your turf from shifting or lifting. Installers place landscape stakes or galvanized nails every 6-8 inches along perimeters and high-traffic areas. Larger installations might need both adhesives and mechanical fasteners.
Special areas like play equipment need specific anchoring. Professionals create small X-cuts in the turf backing and install anchors at a 45-degree angle. These anchors go at least 10 inches into the ground beneath the turf’s sub-base. This ensures equipment stays stable even with active use.
The final step involves brushing turf fibers upright and adding infill materials like silica sand. This adds weight and stability while helping grass blades stand naturally. A properly completed installation creates a beautiful, durable lawn that performs well for years.
Post-installation benefits of professional work
Professional artificial turf installation shows its true value right after completion. Expert installers go beyond just laying the turf. They optimize your synthetic lawn’s performance and durability through vital post-installation steps.
Better infill distribution and blade memory
Artificial grass benefits from expert infill application that makes a real difference in performance. Quality turf comes with unique blade shapes – W, C, S, and V-shaped fibers. Each shape brings its own advantages when supported properly by infill. W-shaped blades can stay up to 15 degrees cooler than other synthetic turfs because of their light-diffusing properties.
Expert installers know blade memory depends on proper infill distribution. Blades need to bounce back to their original shape after being compressed. V, W, and S shapes give better structural support and memory with correct infill application. Poor installation leads to matting and flattening too soon.
Landscape applications with 1½-1¾” pile height need 2.5-3.5 pounds of infill per square foot. Professionals hit this sweet spot perfectly. This creates ideal cushioning and shock absorption. The turf becomes more resilient under foot traffic.
Reduced maintenance and longer turf life
Professional installation and turf lifespan are closely linked. DIY artificial grass installation might save money upfront, but professional work adds 3-5 years to your turf’s expected 15-20 year life. This extra time comes from precise techniques that avoid common problems like uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and early wear.
Professional installation cuts down maintenance needs substantially. Natural grass needs constant mowing, fertilizing, and watering. A properly installed artificial turf just needs occasional rinsing and brushing. These savings often cover the extra installation cost within 5-7 years. Understanding artificial turf maintenance is key to preserving its longevity.
On top of that, it helps manage infill properly. You should add fresh infill every 5-7 years to keep the cushioning and looks. Professional guidance on maintenance helps your artificial lawn stay vibrant and functional. This makes it a smart investment that pays off well beyond the installation day.
Added value beyond the lawn
Your new synthetic grass offers more value than just looks and durability – benefits that many homeowners miss when installing artificial turf. A professional installer will help you get long-term benefits through proper compliance and detailed warranty protection. This protects your investment for years.
Compliance with HOA and local codes
Getting artificial turf installation right means knowing HOA rules inside and out. Many HOAs now allow synthetic lawns, contrary to what people think. They do have specific rules about materials and how the turf should be installed. Professional installers know these details and help you avoid violations that can get pricey or lead to removal orders.
HOAs often require minimum specifications for artificial grass, including:
- Pile height between 1.75 to 2.5 inches
- Face weight of 65-75 ounces per square yard
- UV protection with “no fade” warranties
Local building codes vary a lot between cities. Some cities see artificial turf as impervious, which affects your drainage requirements. Others consider properly installed turf as pervious. Professional installers stay current with local rules and handle the complex permit process that can be challenging for homeowners.
Cities need specific documents for permits – site plans, cross-sectional diagrams, and material specs. Professional installers make this process smooth and will give you the right paperwork the first time. This saves time and prevents hassles.
Warranty coverage and service guarantees
A quality professional turf installation comes with detailed warranty protection that DIY projects can’t match. Artificial turf has two main warranty types: manufacturer warranties for the turf material and installation warranties that cover workmanship.
Manufacturer warranties usually last 8-15 years. Some offer “lifetime” warranties, but these often drop to 25-50% coverage after 8-12 years. Professional installers explain these differences clearly so you won’t face surprises if you need warranty service.
Installation warranties typically last 1-3 years and cover key items including:
- Invisible and secure seams
- Edge finishing and anchoring
- Base layer integrity
- Proper drainage performance
The best warranties still have exclusions for damage from reflections, chemicals, improper use, and natural disasters. Working with established professionals keeps your warranty valid. Since nearly half of new businesses fail within five years, choosing an experienced installer means they’ll likely be around if problems come up.
Install Artificial Turf Now and Enjoy a Greener, Easier Outdoor Space
Professional artificial turf installation adds lasting value to your property by creating a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space. Professional expertise, quality assurance, and attention to detail make this investment worthwhile. Your synthetic lawn will stand the test of time while meeting all your outdoor needs effectively.
Opulands helps you choose the best option for your lifestyle, property, and home during front or backyard remodels. Our expertise extends to both synthetic and real lawn installation, and we guarantee quality work that lasts years. Our landscape designers carefully consider your lawn’s size, shape, and placement to enhance your yard’s overall esthetics. Contact us now for a complimentary consultation for your front yard or backyard remodel.
FAQs
Professional installation ensures proper base preparation, precise cutting and joining, and optimal infill distribution. This results in better durability, improved drainage, and a more natural appearance that can last 15-20 years with minimal maintenance.
Artificial turf significantly reduces water consumption and eliminates the need for fertilizers and pesticides. It also helps conserve resources by removing the need for regular mowing and watering, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
Yes, artificial turf is safe for children and pets. Professional installers can recommend antimicrobial options with fully permeable backing for improved drainage and odor control. The turf also provides a durable, mud-free surface that can withstand heavy use.
Compared to natural grass, artificial turf requires minimal maintenance. It typically needs only occasional rinsing and brushing. Infill should be replenished every 5-7 years to maintain cushioning and appearance. This reduced maintenance translates to significant time and cost savings over the years.
While artificial turf may not directly increase home value, it can enhance curb appeal. Professional installers ensure compliance with HOA regulations and local codes, handling complex permitting processes. They also provide comprehensive warranties, which can protect your investment for years to come.
