Learn how to remove the existing ground cover and prepare the base for artificial grass to ensure your new synthetic lawn will be long-lasting. Get tips for DIY enthusiasts and follow manufacturer guidelines to understand the process of installing the base layer for turf.
Why Opt for Artificial Grass? If you're looking for a low-maintenance, drought-resistant lawn in Los Angeles, artificial grass is a great option. It looks incredibly realistic and is available in a variety of shades and textures. In addition to being easy to care for, artificial grass also doesn't require irrigation or fertilizers, making it an environmentally-friendly choice. When installed correctly with high-quality materials, it can last up to 15 years. Thanks to its many benefits, artificial grass has become increasingly popular among homeowners in Los Angeles.
Base Layer of Synthetic Turf
The lifespan of your synthetic lawn can be greatly reduced if the artificial grass base is not prepped correctly with the right materials. Proper installation is extremely important. Because the base is not visible, contractors might skip steps here, leading to issues a few months down the line. Keep reading to learn how to prep the base for artificial turf installation.
Why Does the Ground Need to be Prepped for Turf? Many think you can simply lay synthetic grass over your existing surface, but there's much more involved. A poorly prepped base layer can lead to sinking spots, bumps, wrinkles, and edges lifting. Pests like gophers and moles can also ruin your installation if the base is not solid. Weeds will flourish without a properly compacted sub-base. So what do you put under artificial grass?
Removal of Existing Grass Two weeks to a month before installation, start shutting down sprinkler systems and stop watering the existing lawn. Unhealthy and dead grass will be easier to remove and can help you save on dumping costs. You can also spray the area with a weed killer to accelerate the process. Don't wait too long after the grass dies, as this can lead to heavy weeds flourishing. Heavy weeds will result in more dumping costs and extra labor.
About 2 inches of grass and soil will be removed to make room for the new base layer. For DIYers, use an aluminum landscape rake to remove the dead grass and soil once it has dried. Professionals use sod cutters to achieve a smooth surface, allowing for thorough compaction and preventing future soil settling bumps.
Preparing Turf Base - Manufacturer Recommendations Manufacturers recommend a class II road base as the best and most effective base layer for artificial turf. Remove 2 inches of soil, applying weed killer heavily to the surface. You can also lay a weed barrier cloth, though it is not very effective against weeds and can trap bacteria. We do not recommend using weed barrier for pet-friendly artificial lawns.
Add an even layer of class II road base material along the surface, about 2-3 inches thick, and compact it heavily using a stamp compactor. Ensure the road base is evenly dispersed. When compacting, move in circles around the surface, both clockwise and counterclockwise, for the best results. Be careful near concrete edging and get into the corners at an angle to compact the borders securely.
Preparing Turf Base - For DIY Installers For DIYers, heavy machinery and materials might not be easily accessible. Instead of renting expensive machinery, work with tools that can be handled by one person. Begin by removing the soil and applying a weed killer.
Use decomposed granite (DG) as an alternative underlay. Evenly disperse about 2 inches of DG with a push broom along the surface, then use a heavy-duty roller to compact it. Roll along the DG in multiple directions for the best results.
To ensure your base won't wash away with rainfall, apply a stabilizer on the DG after compaction. This provides a sturdy enough base to hold the nails when securing the artificial turf. Allow the area to fully dry before moving forward with the installation.
Preparing Turf Base - Over Concrete Artificial grass can be installed directly over concrete as long as it doesn't cause drainage issues or create obstructions. To avoid mold, ensure proper drainage underneath the turf.
Smooth any sharp edges of concrete to allow for easy gluing. Keep in mind that heavy adhesives may leave stains on the concrete. Secure the artificial turf with glue to prevent wrinkles and movement due to temperature fluctuations.
Preparing Turf Base - Pet-Friendly Lawns For pet turf, the prep process is similar to regular synthetic lawns. Lay a 1/4-inch layer of Zeofill along the compacted base before laying down pet-friendly artificial grass. Zeofill acts as a deodorizer, trapping ammonia smells from urine until you can sanitize the area. Avoid using a weed barrier for pet turf.
If your lawn has any dips, consider installing a French drain to accelerate water movement. While not required, a French drain will help combat odors from pet turf systems.
Preparing Turf Base - On Slopes or Hills For slopes up to 15 degrees, lay wire mesh, such as chicken wire, prior to adding your road base. For larger slopes, use a stabilization membrane cell. Compact the road base, then add a small 1/2-inch layer of DG and compact again.
Preparing Turf Base - Putting Greens Grading and leveling are crucial when installing a putting green. Because the pile height of putting green turf is short, inconsistencies like dips and bumps are more visible. Professionals add a very thin layer of DG on top of the compacted road base to further smooth the surface.
Preparing Turf Base - Heavy Traffic or Drivable Grass For heavy traffic areas or where cars will drive and park, the turf base layer needs additional stability. Use geotextile permeable pavers to support the base. Prepare the base layer as manufacturers recommend, and lay these paver tiles along the surface before unrolling the fake grass.
We hope this guide covers all the different base prep scenarios you may encounter when installing artificial turf in Los Angeles. Once the lawn is covered, it's nearly impossible to pinpoint base prep mistakes until it's too late and the installation is compromised. Always ensure the installation crew uses high-quality materials and prepares the sub-base properly. Ready to get your project started? Request a custom estimate below in 2 minutes or less!
Frequently Asked Questions About Prepping the Ground for Artificial Turf
Do You Put Underlay Underneath Artificial Turf? Aside from creating a solid base, other underlays like drainage layers, weed barriers, and padding can be used to add comfort and lengthen your lawn's lifespan.
What Happens If You Skip The Base Layer For Artificial Grass? Skipping the base layer can lead to poor drainage, an uneven surface, weed growth, and poor stability. Over time, the soil will shift, causing dips and sagging, becoming a safety hazard.
What Is The Best Base to Lay Artificial Grass? Class II Road Base is the best material for a solid foundation. DIYers can use decomposed granite and a stabilizer if road base is not accessible.
What Should I Put Down Before Artificial Grass? Remove the natural grass and 2-3 inches of soil. Apply a heavy layer of weed killer, then lay the base layer of Class II Road Base or decomposed granite. Compact the base layer twice to ensure a dense foundation.
What Tools Are Needed To Install An Artificial Grass Base? You’ll need a rake, shovel, wheelbarrow, nails and stakes, landscape fabric (optional), plate compactor or lawn roller, and a utility knife.
Can I Use A Paver Base For Artificial Turf? Yes, but it is more expensive than Class II Road Base and is usually used only if pavers were pre-existing in the space.
What To Put Under Artificial Grass For Drainage? Opt for fully permeable artificial grass. Drainage grids like AirDrain and DrainCore can be used, or a French drain system for severe cases.
Other Common Questions About Artificial Grass
How do I Groom the Turf for Optimal Settling and Stability? Use a power brush with heavy bristles to brush against the grain of the grass. Apply infill evenly, then lightly brush the turf to settle the granules. Remove any excess debris for a clean surface.
How do I Apply Filler to the Turf Installation? Use a power brush to brush against the grain, spread antibacterial envirofill sand evenly, and lightly brush the turf to settle the granules.
How do I Install Bender Board to Separate the Turf Areas? Prepare the area, measure and mark the boundary, dig a trench, place the bender board, secure it with stakes or anchors, connect multiple pieces if necessary, and backfill the trench.
How do I Relocate Sprinklers and Modify Irrigation Lines if Necessary? Cap unused sprinklers, modify the irrigation system, mark and backfill the capped sprinkler locations, move wiring away from hardscape, and secure it with u-nails.
How do I Cap Existing Sprinklers That Will Not be Used? Cap the sprinklers at the pipe level, apply plumber's thread seal tape, screw the caps tightly, turn on the water supply, and inspect for any issues.
By following these steps, you can ensure your artificial turf installation in Los Angeles is successful and long-lasting.