Step-by-Step Guide on How to Install Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is a great option for lawns and landscaping in Dallas, TX. It provides a lush, green look without the maintenance needs of real grass.

If you’re a homeowner or business owner who wants the beauty of an evergreen lawn but doesn’t have the time to put in the work, it may be time to look into how to install artificial grass

Replacing natural grass with turf is a big project, however our professional turf installation team completes most projects within a couple of days, depending on the size of your lawn.

Unlike other turf installation companies in Dallas, we go to great lengths to ensure that your artificial turf is built to last. In fact, we’ve prepared this helpful, step-by-step guide on how to install artificial grass so that you know exactly what to expect from North Texas Luxury Lawns & Greens.

Step 1 – Planning and Preparation

First, we meet with you to discuss your specific needs and goals for installing artificial grass. We may ask you questions like whether or not you have young kids and/or large breed dogs, if you often host parties or barbeques with heavy foot traffic, or if you want a corner putting green for golf practice, etc.

Answering questions like these is crucial for finding the right type of high-quality artificial turf for your property. We install many types of artificial grass, including residential turf, commercial turf, putting greens, pet turf, and athletic turf.

We can also help you select a high-quality turf that meets your visual aesthetic. Artificial grass comes in many colors, though these four colors are most common:

• Field Green
• Lime Green
• Apple
• Olive

Step 2 – Lawn Measurements

After we’ve ironed our your goals, we schedule a date to get started on surveying and measuring your lawn.

Our team thoroughly measures the area where you plan to install artificial grass and ensure we prepare the correct length of turf. We consider the pile height, blade shape, and backing material that will best complement your current landscaping.

Step 3 – Clearing Out Your Lawn

Before we begin the excavation process, our team clears the area of all debris, plants, and rocks.

Once the area is cleared of debris, we excavate 4-5 inches of grass and top soil from the pace, and haul it off.

Step 4 – Laying Down the Weed Barrier

We then level the soil underneath, filling in any low spots. The base should be flat and compacted. Next, we lay down a weed barrier that prevents weed growth, and stabilizes the base of your artificial lawn.

The weed barrier is a critical component of your lawn, as it allows water to drain through to the soil below. This prevents puddling or moisture buildup under the turf that can contribute to tears or shifting.

This barrier also acts as a separating layer between the artificial grass backing and the gravel base we’ll be getting into next. It prevents the base material from getting pushed up, where it might be visible on the surface.

Step 5 – Installing the Base

A proper base is crucial for artificial grass to look good and last.

We install a base layer of decomposed granite to our lawns. Our turf experts agree that of all the materials available for a base, decomposed granite is the best choice because it is able to absorb and hold moisture, ensuring your artificial grass stays cool throughout the year.

The base is also important because it creates a firm, stable foundation that the artificial grass can be anchored. This prevents shifting, rippling, and indentation issues that tend to occur over time.

After we’ve laid out the base, we wet it and run a plate compactor over the decomposed granite to create an even plane that keeps the turf fibers upright and looking natural. 

Make note: we install artificial grass by hand to ensure that nearby trees, flower beds, shrubs, irrigation systems or inground pools are not disturbed in the installation process. We do not use big tractors that tend to destroy everything in their wake, leaving behind muddy, unsightly track marks on your driveway or front lawn.

Step 6 – Laying Artificial Grass

On the second day, we perform an inspection of the base to ensure that no pipes or sprinklers were damaged. Once we’ve given the base the “all clear,” it’s time to install artificial grass.

We unroll the artificial turf strategically to prevent as many seams as possible throughout your lawn. Seams are a failure point in turf and should be avoided as much as possible to ensure your artificial grass lasts throughout unpredictable Texas seasons.

After we unroll the turf, it must be “stretched” out over the area. Stretching is a must, as turf expands and retracts with temperature shifts. The last thing we want is to wrinkle or snap at the seams over time. We cut turf across the stitch rows to avoid as much “mohawking” as possible. This helps prevent visible seams that break the illusion of a solitary lawn.

As we install your artificial grass, we only use steel nails for the most secure hold on your turf. Because steel nails rusts over time, we take advantage of this. See, the rust itself creates friction that makes it even more difficult for the turf to lift up, even under the most stressful conditions.

Our average install uses around 25 pounds of nails. So, you can rest easy knowing your turf isn’t going anywhere.

Step 7 – Final Inspection and Finishing Touches

Next, we perform a final inspection after installation. We power-broom it twice, then add the final detail work.

We literally get on our hands and knees to tuck in the edges and trim with scissors. No other artificial grass company in Dallas will do that for you!

Install Artificial Grass with North Texas Luxury Lawns

North Texas Luxury Lawns can help you turn your lackluster lawn into pristine, envy-worthy artificial turf. If you have questions about our step-by-step guide on how to install artificial grass, reach out to speak with a member of our team today. If you’re ready to make the switch from natural grass to synthetic turf, let us know so we can schedule a convenient appointment time to visit your property and discuss your goals.

Our experienced employees expertly install the highest quality artificial grass available. With blade options designed to mimic native grasses in North Texas like Bermuda Grass or St. Augustine, we can match an artificial grass type and pile height. Call today to learn more at (972) 412-6569.