How To Prepare The Ground Around Your Home For Artificial Turf

Over the past year, American consumers have spent over $400 billion on home improvement projects. The average homeowner understands that the right improvement projects can add lots of value to their property. One of the main things a person will notice about the outside of your residence is the condition of the lawn. If you have tried everything to get natural grass to grow outside of your home with no success, it is time to consider investing in synthetic turf. 

Before you can have turf installed on the outside of your home, lots of prep work will have to be performed. Making sure the ground outside of your home is ready for new turf can make the installation process much easier. Read below for advice on how to prepare the ground around your home for artificial turf. 

Checking For Underground Hazards

Before you start the turf installation process, you will need to know exactly where you are putting this synthetic covering. Measuring off and marking the areas you want professionals to install the turf is crucial when trying to avoid problems during this home improvement project. Once you know where you want the turf to go, you can move on to the next step, which is checking for underground hazards. 

Electrical wires, gas lines and plumbing pipes are usually just under the surface of the ground surrounding a home. If any of these elements are disturbed, it can lead to you and the crew you have hired to install your new turf being exposed to lots of danger. Rupturing a plumbing pipe can also result in indoor water damage, which is why you need to find out more about the hazards lurking under the ground. If you have access to your home’s building plans, you should have no problem pinpointing these hazards. 

Topsoil and Existing Grass Has To Be Removed

Most homeowners fail to realize that the topsoil and existing grass they have in place need to be removed before new turf can be installed. Ideally, you want to excavate these elements and go down no more than four inches below the ground. Allowing professionals to handle this time-consuming process is probably a good idea. These professionals will have access to a turf cutter, which cuts the amount of time required to remove topsoil and grass down considerably. 

Assess Soil Drainage

The biggest mistake you can make before having new artificial turf installed is failing to check how well your soil drains. While turf will drain through the backing of your artificial turf, you need to make sure the soil underneath drains properly. Ignoring this part of the preparation process can lead to water build-up and extensive damage in the long run. The best way to avoid this problem is by working with professionals to assess your soil drainage capabilities and address any problems that may exist. 

If you are ready to enjoy the benefits provided by artificial turf, it’s time to find out more about the services offered by Texas Custom Turf.

Edging Options for Artificial Turf

When you consider the installation process for artificial turf, you must also consider edging. Edging serves as a restraint for the aggregates used for the groundwork and provides an anchoring point for the perimeter of the grass. 

There are several factors to consider when installing an edging system for your artificial turf, such as the environment, the use of your artificial lawn, and your budget. If you have reached this step in the installation process for artificial grass, continue reading to learn about the available edging options. 

Paving Stones

One of the lowest maintenance options for edging artificial turf is paving stones. These also offer a high level of aesthetic appeal. 

Along with that, paving stones are attractive and durable, and you can use them in several ways. 

Bark and Wood Chips

Do you want a more natural look for your landscape? If so, consider wood chips and bark. While some people don’t like this material because they are concerned it will get on the turf itself, you can take steps to prevent this from happening. One is to create a solid line of edging in between the bark, wood chips, and grass. 

Steel

Steel is a fast, long-lasting, and easy to install edging option that can be catered to your specific needs. While this option is more expensive, many people prefer it to others. 

Bendable Borders 

Do you want a long-lasting, affordable option to edge your artificial turf? If so, bendable borders may be the best option. Along with being affordable, you can find them in most locations. Even better, the installation process for bendable borders is simple, which means you can do it without professional help. 

Wood or Logs

This type of edging is recommended for artificial turf with a straight edge design. While this is true, it can be used for other designs and situations, too. 

Curbing 

Considered one of the most popular edging options, curbing is very visually appealing. However, you need to make sure that this is the option you want to use. Curbing is a permanent option that won’t let you redesign your landscape or lawn shape. 

Railroad Ties 

For years, railroad ties have been used for landscaping and edging purposes. It is possible to cut railroad ties to fit any space or area that is needed. Some people use these for building up their lawn and setting the perimeter before installing the artificial turf. 

Selecting the Right Edging Option for Your Artificial Turf

As you can see, there are more than a few options to consider when it comes to edging for your artificial turf. If you aren’t sure what option is right for you, work with the professionals. They can help guide your decisions and ensure you love the outcome that is achieved. 

There is no question that artificial turf provides more than a few benefits. Be sure to keep the options in mind to see what one will best suit your needs and preferences. Being informed is the best way to get the beautiful landscape you want and need.