Having an artificial grass lawn is one of the nicest things for a house, yet many people make silly and expensive blunders. Whether you install insulation yourself or use a professional, you must be aware of common pitfalls. Avoid these key mistakes:
Skipping Proper Ground Preparation
Another common mistake when installing synthetic turf is failure to prepare the ground for it. In its finest and best performance, artificial grass requires a stable base on which it is installed. Issues like bumps, lumps, or uneven surfaces can only appear with sufficient ground preparation. Make sure to:
- Remove any existing grass or vegetation thoroughly.
- Compact the soil to prevent sinking over time.
- Lay a proper sub-base, such as crushed stone, to create a stable foundation.
Ignoring Drainage Requirements
The other thing must be noted is that synthetic turf must be installed on an excellent sub-base to avoid water accumulation after a rainy season. Another mistake people need to correct is rolling the turf on a flat or non-permeable layer without regard to drainage. This can result in the formation of ugly patches of water and harm to the grass, rendering the playfield virtually nothing. Ensure that:
- The sub-base allows water to drain effectively.
- If your yard has poor natural drainage, a slight slope or drainage system is in place.
- Permeable backing is used with the turf to let water pass through efficiently.
Choosing Low-Quality Materials
Trying to save money by choosing the cheapest artificial grass often backfires. Low-quality grass looks less realistic and wears out quickly, requiring replacement sooner than expected. Always invest in high-quality synthetic turf that mimics the appearance and feel of natural grass and offers durability. Look for:
- UV-resistant materials to prevent fading.
- An excellent warranty to guarantee longevity.
- Grass with a realistic colour blend for a natural look.
Incorrect Measuring and Cutting
Improper measurements and cutting can lead to wasted material or seams that must align correctly. Measure your area carefully and add a little extra for any trimming needed. When cutting:
- Use a sharp utility knife for precise edges.
- Cut from the underside of the grass to follow the backing lines.
- Ensure that any seams are hidden by cutting along the blades, not against them, for a more natural finish.
Not Using Joint Tape and Adhesive Properly
Joining two pieces of artificial grass incorrectly can lead to visible seams and an uneven appearance. Some people should be more careful using joint tape and adhesive or misuse them, leading to weak connections. When joining pieces:
- Lay the joint tape under the edges of both pieces.
- Apply adhesive evenly to the tape before pressing the grass into place.
- Avoid overuse of adhesive, as this can cause bumps.
Improper Securing of the Grass
Failing to secure the grass correctly can result in edges lifting over time. Always anchor the edges and the middle sections of the grass securely with stakes or nails to prevent movement. Ensure that:
- Anchors are spaced every 20-30 cm around the perimeter.
- Stakes or nails are driven down to sit flush with the base.
Not Brushing and Settling the Grass
After installation, artificial grass must be brushed and settled properly to look natural. Some installers must complete this step, leading to flat or uneven-looking grass. To prevent this:
- Brush the grass fibres against the grain to help them stand up.
- Allow 24-48 hours for the grass to settle before heavy use.
- Fill with a suitable infill, such as silica sand, to support the blades and maintain their shape.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance
While artificial grass demands significantly less concern in comparison to natural grass, there is still some work that needs to be done. One mistake often made is people assuming that all they have to do is never upkeep it in any way, and that is wrong because debris and dirt will accumulate over time. Make sure to:
- Brush the grass regularly to prevent matting.
- Remove leaves and other debris to avoid blocking drainage.
- Clean any spills or messes promptly to maintain a fresh appearance.
Conclusion:
If you want to avoid making these mistakes, you will be on the right track to having great-looking artificial grass that will last long and perform well. It is important to pay a lot of attention when preparing the ground, use the right materials, and be very professional in putting down the lawn to get a fine-looking lawn that will not demand regular maintenance.