From unrolling the grass roll to securing the edges, we'll guide you step-by-step through the physical process of laying the lawn.
Installing artificial turf might seem daunting if you’re new to DIY projects, but with the right guidance, even beginners can achieve professional-looking results. Turflory’s high-quality artificial turf is designed for accessibility, making it perfect for homeowners embarking on garden renovation or residential landscaping. This step-by-step guide breaks down the physical process of laying turf—from ground preparation to edge securing—so you can confidently transform your outdoor space with zero prior experience.
Preparation before laying: Is the ground ready?
Before unboxing your Turflory turf roll, the first and most critical step is ensuring your ground is properly prepared. A stable, level base is the foundation for a long-lasting lawn that resists wrinkles, shifting, and drainage issues.
Start by clearing the area of all debris, weeds, rocks, and existing vegetation. For best results, remove 2–4 inches of topsoil to create space for the base material. Next, grade the ground to ensure a slight slope (1–2% grade) for drainage—this prevents water pooling on the turf surface. Compact the soil thoroughly using a hand tamper or plate compactor to eliminate air pockets and create a firm base.
For residential projects, Turflory recommends adding a layer of crushed stone or decomposed granite (3–4 inches) on top of the compacted soil. This base material enhances drainage and stability, ensuring your turf stays in place for years. If you’re unsure about base preparation specifics, refer to Turflory’s Solution Center for detailed guides tailored to DIY installation.
Step 1: Properly unfold the Turflory roll
Once the ground is ready, it’s time to unroll your artificial turf—a step that requires patience to avoid mistakes.
Why must the direction of the grass fibers be consistent?
Grass fibers on artificial turf are designed to face a specific direction, which affects the lawn’s appearance and realism. When unrolling multiple Turflory rolls (for larger areas), ensure all fibers point the same way. If fibers face different directions, the lawn will have inconsistent color and texture, ruining the natural look. Stand back periodically to check alignment—consistency here makes a significant difference in the final result.
Allow the lawn to "breathe" and adapt to the environment
After unrolling, don’t rush to secure the turf immediately. Artificial turf is often tightly wrapped during shipping, and fibers may be flattened or matted. Let the roll "breathe" for 2–4 hours (or overnight in cooler weather) to allow it to expand and adapt to the ambient temperature. This step reduces tension in the turf, making it easier to lay flat and minimizing the risk of wrinkles later. For residential spaces like backyards or patios, this adaptation period ensures the turf conforms to the ground’s contours for a seamless fit.
Step 2: Locating and trimming the excess parts
Once the turf has adapted to the environment, it’s time to trim away excess material for a precise fit. Use a sharp utility knife or turf cutter to trim along the edges of your installation area—always cut from the back of the turf (the non-fibered side) to avoid damaging the grass blades.
For curved edges or irregular shapes, make small, gradual cuts rather than trying to cut the entire contour at once. This approach gives you more control and prevents over-trimming. If you’re installing around obstacles (like trees or garden features), measure twice and cut once to ensure a snug fit. Remember: it’s better to leave a little extra material and trim incrementally than to cut too much and create gaps.
Step 3: Fixing the lawn (selection of nails and glue)
Securing the turf properly is key to preventing shifting, wrinkles, and edge lifting. The right tools—turf nails, landscape staples, and adhesive—depend on your installation surface and project size.
For residential DIY projects, Turflory recommends using 6–8 inch galvanized turf nails (or landscape staples) for soil or crushed stone bases. Space nails 6–12 inches apart along the perimeter of the turf, and 12–18 inches apart in the center (for larger areas). This spacing ensures even tension and keeps the turf flat. For seams between multiple rolls, use turf adhesive and seaming tape: apply adhesive to the tape, align the turf edges tightly (no gaps), and press firmly to bond.
Turflory’s residential turf is designed for easy securing, with durable backing that holds nails and adhesive well. For additional guidance on tool selection or seaming techniques, reach out to Turflory’s support team via contact page.
Tips to avoid wrinkles during laying
Wrinkles are one of the most common pitfalls for beginner turf installers, but they’re easily preventable with these tips:
• Start from the center: When unrolling, anchor the turf in the center of the area first, then stretch it outward toward the edges. This distributes tension evenly and reduces wrinkling.
• Smooth as you go: Use a broom or power brush to smooth the turf surface as you secure it. Push wrinkles toward the edges, where they can be trimmed or adjusted.
• Avoid overstretching: Pulling the turf too tightly can cause it to buckle or wrinkle as it expands in heat. Aim for a snug fit without excessive tension.
• Check the base: Wrinkles often stem from an uneven base. Double-check that the ground is compacted and level before laying the turf—fix any bumps or depressions beforehand.
With the turf secured and wrinkles eliminated, your DIY artificial turf installation is complete. You’ve successfully transformed your outdoor space with a low-maintenance, durable lawn that will stay lush year-round. Turflory’s residential turf requires no mowing, watering, or fertilizing, letting you enjoy more time in your garden without the upkeep.
Whether you’ve renovated a backyard, patio, or courtyard, your new Turflory lawn is built to withstand wear, pets, and harsh weather—backed by the brand’s 10+ years of manufacturing expertise. For more tips on maintenance, or if you have questions about your installation, visit Turflory’s Solution Center or contact the support team at contact page.
Remember: DIY artificial turf installation is a rewarding project that doesn’t require professional skills—just patience, the right tools, and a step-by-step guide. With Turflory, you’re not just buying turf; you’re investing in a hassle-free outdoor space that delivers long-term value.
