Synthetic Turf Laying Guide

Following is a brief overview of what is required when laying synthetic turf. There are many processes involved of which a summary is given below:

  1. Excavate area.
  2. Prepare a stabilised sub base (See base preparation guide sheet).
  3. Lay synthetic turf on prepared base, join and pin down.
  4. Apply dried sand infill.

Synthetic turf comes in roll widths from 2m through to 4m. The turf is only available to buy in lineal metres so you will have to make joins and allow for some wastage when fitting it into the job.

1. Excavate area

Excavate the pre-determined area to a depth of 110mm. This involves removing a layer of existing soil to make room for the sub base to be put in.

2. Prepare stabilized sub base

Spread an 80mm layer of crushed rock or road base. Screed it off and bring the surface to a rough level. Run over the area with a vibrating plate to compact the layer. After you have done this, spread a 20mm layer of dolomite or paving sand and compact again with a vibrating plate.

Accurately screed and level the base. (preferably with a laser level to accurately set the drainage). The final height should be 10mm below the edge or border.

3. Lay synthetic turf and join

Lay out the synthetic turf on the prepared base. If you are laying several pieces that need to be joined, make sure they are all facing the same way. Ensure you have a 50mm overhang of turf around the perimeter of the area. Join the pieces together using self-adhesive tape or dry tape with an outdoor contact adhesive. Once joined, trim the perimeter overhang off with a sharp knife, then pin the turf down.

4. Apply dried sand infill

Once the turf is fitted, you will need to apply a layer of kiln dried foundry sand. This is called infill and must be applied for two reasons:

  1. The sand holds the carpet mat down.
  2. It helps to hold the pile or yarn up.

This is best done with a large or commercial drop spreader so that it is done evenly. Because the pile of the grass is flat after being rolled up, the sand will cover it. The pile will need to be brushed through the sand. You can do this with a hard bristle broom or for a more even result, a power broom can be used. The amount of sand required will depend on the type of synthetic turf used. It ranges from 3kg/m2 to 15kg/m2.