Choose an artificial grass seller with a strong guarantee or warranty. This can help you avoid any potential problems down the line.
Lay down a weed suppressant membrane to reduce the likelihood of weeds growing up through your new turf. If you’re planning on installing the turf on a flat surface, talk to Landscaping Colorado Springs.
Sub-Base
The sub-base is a crucial part of any artificial grass installation. It prevents weed growth, improves drainage, and protects the surface against settlement, which can lead to uneven surfaces. It also acts as a barrier against erosion and helps retain the soil’s moisture. This layer should be at least 20mm thick, and it can be made from crushed stone or a mix of MOT Type 1 aggregate and granite dust.
The best choice for your sub-base is either class II road base (also known as CMB) or decomposed granite. Both of these are natural material that has been weathered and broken down over time, making them more durable than gravel. They are also porous, which allows water to drain through them into the surrounding soil. In addition, they can store rainwater and prevent flooding during heavy rainfall.
A properly prepared sub-base is essential for any artificial lawn because it provides the foundation that supports the synthetic turf’s structure. Without a well-prepped base layer, you can experience problems such as sinking spots, bumps, and wrinkles in your artificial lawn. In addition, weeds and pests can invade your lawn, which can cause damage to the synthetic grass surface.
In addition to the sub-base, it’s important to install a weed membrane under the fake grass to keep out any unwanted vegetation. This is especially important for areas with a lot of foot traffic, such as children’s playgrounds or sports fields. A weed membrane will make it difficult for weeds to grow through the fake grass, and it can also help protect against sunburn and heat damage.
The cost of a sub-base will vary depending on the size of the area you’re landscaping and the thickness of the base layer. However, an average bag of MOT Type 1 will cost between PS40 and PS50 per square meter. If you’re installing artificial grass on concrete or wooden decking, you won’t need a sub-base and can use a foam shock pad underlay instead. Foam shock pads are made from perforated polyethylene bonded foam and come in a range of thicknesses to suit any landscape project.
Grass
Artificial grass is made from a type of synthetic material that looks like real grass. It is a durable, versatile, and affordable alternative to natural lawns. It is available in many different styles and colors to suit any décor. It is easy to clean, requires less water than a natural lawn, and can save homeowners money in the long run. The most popular types of artificial grass are polypropylene and nylon. Polypropylene is the least expensive, but it doesn’t hold up well to high traffic and is best used for putting greens and other low-use areas. Nylon is more expensive, but it’s very durable and holds up well to frequent use.
Artificial turf is a great choice for children’s play areas because it’s safer than natural grass. It can also reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. It is also a good choice for people with allergies to outdoor plants. Some turf products are even designed for pet owners. They help to eliminate dog waste odors and keep the surface cooler in direct sunlight.
When installing artificial turf, it is important to lay a weed membrane before laying the grass. A weed barrier prevents weeds from growing through the artificial grass, and it helps with drainage. In addition, it can increase the longevity of the turf.
Once the weed membrane is in place, you can start installing the turf. When laying the turf, be sure to stretch it out evenly across the area and make any necessary cuts. It’s also a good idea to cut the edges of the turf so that they overlap with any existing landscaping. For a more natural look, try to find an artificial grass with a slight “grain” that will bend toward your home.
When laying the seams, it is essential to use a reputable installer that has years of experience. This will ensure that the seams are properly glued and nailed down. It is also a good idea to choose a product that has a warranty and a guarantee. Less-experienced installers will often offer limited warranties or guarantees and may not stand behind their work.
Infill
The infill of an artificial grass installation is the material placed between the synthetic turf blades to help them stand up. It also provides cushioning and makes the surface feel more like real grass. It protects the base material used on the synthetic lawn, which can become damaged by heavy foot traffic and UV rays. It also helps to prevent or eliminate pet odors.
The best infill for an artificial turf lawn is a natural product made from cork and coconuts. It is a safe and environmentally friendly option that can be used for all types of synthetic turf applications. It has been certified to be safe for children and pets and is non-toxic. It has many benefits over other synthetic infill options, including improved player safety with grass-like turf field temperatures, reduced abrasion, and increased foot stability.
Another popular infill is crumb rubber, which is a recycled tire product that has been pulverized and sized to create small particles. This infill is available in various colors and grades to match your landscaping needs. It is a sustainable and economical choice that is easy to install. It is not a permanent solution, though, and it may require occasional replacement.
When installing an artificial lawn, it is important to consider drainage issues before you start. A poorly draining lawn will collect water in the wrong places, causing puddles and creating an unsightly mess. A professional can advise you on the best drainage solutions for your area. You should also install a waterproof border around the yard, to keep it from slumping and separating over time.
If possible, it is a good idea to install your synthetic lawn in autumn (before leaves fall) or spring. This will ensure that the weather conditions are ideal for rolling out and laying the turf. During these seasons, the ground is usually dry and warm, making it easier to roll out and smooth down the turf.
The infill of your artificial grass should be weighed down with ballast to prevent it from developing wrinkles or ripples. It should also be swept periodically to remove any debris that has been collected underneath the turf. This can be dangerous, so it’s important to wear protective equipment when doing this.
Clean Up
Inevitably, some mess will eventually find its way to your fake turf. Barbecue sauce spills, a sticky kid’s snack, dog urine, or blood spots – they can all happen. Fortunately, washing simple stains off synthetic grass is easy. If you can catch them early, they’re easily rinsed away with a hose or soaked up using paper towels or shop cloths. For more stubborn stains, mix detergent and water into a solution that’s safe for your turf. Apply the cleaner and scrub using a stiff-bristled brush. After scrubbing, rinse the area thoroughly with cool water.
Whether you use the cleaning solution or make your own, make sure it’s safe for your particular lawn and doesn’t contain chemicals that will damage the turf backing. It’s also wise to avoid abrasive cleaners and tools because they can scratch the turf and leave behind debris that will eventually degrade it.
Some chemicals, including battery acid, grease, lubricants, and motor oil, will discolor or damage artificial turf. These substances can be avoided by storing them safely and relegating grilling, smoking, fireworks, and gardening to areas that are a safe distance from your fake yard.
Grooming your fake turf with a broom or a brush regularly will help keep the blades standing upright and prevent matting. This also helps maintain the integrity of the infill by reducing compaction. You may need to refresh the infill with rubber or sand as it becomes less dense over time.
Just like a natural lawn, your turf needs to be cleaned of pet waste and other debris. Pick up solid waste with a doggy bag or poop scooper. If you can smell the urine, hosing down the areas where pets relieve themselves will eliminate the odor and wash away the residue. You can even buy cleaning solutions specifically for artificial turf that are designed to reduce odors and spots. If you’re worried about a foul smell, there are also ozone treatments that will freshen your backyard. These products will help you get rid of odors for good. However, they’re not a substitute for removing waste from your home or properly disposing of it.
