How to Lay Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass has become increasingly popular across the UK in recent years, especially for homeowners looking to achieve a neat, green garden without the ongoing maintenance that natural turf requires. Whether you’re aiming for a child-friendly play area, a pet-safe garden, or simply a visually appealing lawn all year round, artificial grass offers a practical and attractive solution.
However, the quality of your finished lawn depends greatly on how well it is installed. Even the best artificial turf can appear uneven or worn if the groundwork is not properly done. In this blog, we’ll explain exactly how to lay artificial grass properly, what you’ll need, and why many homeowners choose professional installers like Driveways Bournemouth to ensure the best results.
Why Choose Artificial Grass?
Before diving into installation, it is useful to understand why artificial turf has become a preferred option for many UK homeowners:
- Low Maintenance: No mowing, watering, fertilising, or re-seeding.
- Weather-Proof: Stays green through winter, summer heatwaves, and heavy rain.
- Pet-Friendly: Easy to wash and resistant to digging.
- Long-Lasting: High-quality turf can last 10–15+ years when installed correctly.
- Clean Garden Space: No mud patches, bald spots, or weeds taking over.
For busy households or smaller lawn spaces, artificial grass is a long-term convenience investment.
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
To install artificial turf, the following materials are essential:
| Item | Purpose |
| Artificial grass (your chosen type) | The main lawn covering |
| Weed membrane | Prevents weeds growing from below |
| Sharp sand or Type 1 aggregate | Base layer for stability and drainage |
| Grano dust (optional) | Helps create a smooth, level finish |
| Jointing tape & adhesive | To secure any grass joins |
| Utility knife | Cutting grass to size |
| Compactor / wacker plate | To level and compress the base |
| Brush (stiff bristle) | To lift the grass fibres after installation |
If you don’t have access to compaction equipment, many people choose to hire a professional, this step is crucial for achieving a solid foundation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Laying Artificial Grass
1. Clear the Area
Start by removing existing turf, stones, debris, and any roots from the ground. You need a clean surface to work with. Typically, 50–70mm of topsoil is removed to make space for the base layers.
2. Install the Weed Barrier
Lay a weed membrane over the exposed ground. This is essential for long-term low maintenance because it prevents unwanted growth from pushing up through the turf.
3. Add the Sub-Base
A strong sub-base ensures your lawn drains well and stays flat. Spread a Type 1 MOT aggregate or sharp sand layer evenly at around 50mm depth.
Compact it firmly using a wacker plate to create a stable base.
4. Smooth the Surface
For a neat finish, add a thin layer of grano dust or fine sand and level it out. This step helps achieve a smoother surface under the grass.
5. Roll Out the Artificial Grass
Lay the turf over the prepared area and allow it to relax for a couple of hours. Artificial grass often arrives tightly rolled, so letting it settle reduces creasing.
6. Cut and Shape the Grass
Use a sharp utility knife to trim the edges carefully. Make sure the grass fits the shape of your lawn area, especially around corners, flower beds, and paths.
7. Join the Sections (If Needed)
When joining two pieces, ensure the grass pile direction is the same. Use adhesive and jointing tape underneath the seam and press it firmly to create an invisible join.
8. Secure the Edges
Fix the grass to the ground using galvanised nails or edging stakes around the perimeter. This prevents movement or curling over time.
9. Brush the Grass
Finally, use a stiff-bristle brush to lift the grass fibres upright. This also helps distribute infill if you choose to add sand.
Professional vs DIY, Which is Better?
While laying artificial grass yourself is possible, the finish can vary depending on skill level, especially in:
- Ground levelling
- Seam joining
- Achieving good drainage
- Creating a natural-looking finish
Many homeowners prefer to hire Driveways Bournemouth, as professional installers ensure:
✔ A perfectly level and stable base
✔ Strong, invisible joins
✔ Proper drainage for UK weather
✔ A smooth, natural-looking lawn
It also saves time and reduces the risk of costly installation mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Artificial grass is a practical, attractive, and durable solution for year-round garden appeal. Whether you are upgrading a tired lawn, creating a play space, or designing a modern outdoor living area, proper installation is key to ensuring long-lasting results.
If you would like expert help, Driveways Bournemouth offers reliable and professional artificial grass installation services across Bournemouth and surrounding areas. From ground preparation to final finishing touches, you’ll receive a smooth, high-quality lawn that looks great in every season.
