Table of Contents
The appearance of artificial turf depends on how the lawn fits the space as well as the product selected. The base, drainage, joins and boundaries all need planning before the roll is cut.
Confirm the surface suits the use
Shade, traffic, pets and cleaning access help determine whether artificial turf is appropriate. Surface heat matters in direct sunlight, particularly for areas used barefoot. Check the product information for its intended use and care.
Paving, planting or natural lawn may suit some parts of the garden better. Artificial turf should not be selected simply to cover a wet or uneven area without assessing the cause.
Prepare the base and drainage
The existing surface and unsuitable material are removed as required by the installation. The base is then prepared, shaped and compacted to suit the system and site, with a suitable drainage route.
The installation details differ from preparing soil for a natural lawn. Drainage through the turf is only useful if water can also move through and away from the base beneath it.
Plan joins and roll direction
Roll layout affects where joins fall and how the pile reads across the space. Obstacles, steps and changes in width need to be considered before cutting. The product’s joining, fixing and infill requirements should be followed.
Edges need a suitable restraint where turf meets paving, walls or garden beds. The finished levels should help prevent soil and mulch washing onto the lawn.
A fitted Camperdown courtyard
Our Camperdown synthetic-turf project replaced a struggling lawn within a defined courtyard. The completed photographs show the surface fitted around the existing outdoor space, with the boundaries forming part of the result.
The Longueville project shows another artificial-lawn installation beside an existing pool. The pool and house were not part of the lawn installation.
Keep an ongoing care plan
Remove leaves and debris, clean pet areas and brush or maintain the pile as the product requires. Keep garden soil and mulch away from the surface and inspect edges for damage. Cleaning access should be considered during the layout stage.
Artificial turf installation can be a focused job or part of a garden makeover. The finished lawn still needs suitable drainage and care throughout its use.
