The first large-scale use of artificial turf was in 1964 at Moses Brown School in Providence, Rhode Island. It was called ChemGrass at the time. Two years later, artificial turf was installed in the Houston Astrodome, where it became known as AstroTurf. Since then, it has become a low-maintenance way to keep lawns and outdoor spaces green without mowing or regular watering.
For lawns and play areas, a quality artificial turf install often lasts about 15 years. The biggest factor on how long it will last besides the quality of the turf itself is proper base prep. Here is how to install artificial turf the right way so it looks clean, drains properly, and has the best chance of lasting for years.
1. Plan and Measure the Area
Start by measuring the full area where the artificial turf will be installed. This will help determine how much turf, base material, edging, nails, and infill will be needed. It is always a good idea to add a little extra turf to your measurements so you have enough material for trimming and fitting around the edges.
Before starting, decide where the seams will be if more than one piece of turf is needed. The turf should all face the same direction so the blades look consistent across the entire area.
2. Remove Existing Grass and Debris
Excavate the installation area 3 to 4 inches below the finished grade. For high traffic areas or pet turf, 4 to 6 inches is better. Remove the existing grass, weeds, roots, rocks, and debris from the installation area. The goal is to create a clean, open surface where the turf base can be installed properly.
Once the area is cleared, make sure the ground is level. Any soft spots, dips, or high areas should be corrected before moving forward.
3. Install Edging or Borders
Install edging around the perimeter of the turf area to help hold the base material and turf in place. This can be plastic, metal, concrete, pavers, treated wood, or another solid border depending on the design.
The edging helps create a clean finished look and keeps the turf from shifting over time. Make sure the edging follows the shape of the area and is secured firmly before installing the base.
4. Add a Weed Barrier
After the area is cleared and roughly graded, install a landscape fabric or weed barrier over the soil. This helps reduce weed growth underneath the turf while still allowing water to drain through. It also keeps the base material in place.
Roll the fabric out flat and overlap the edges slightly where pieces meet. Trim the fabric to fit the shape of the area and secure it as needed so it does not shift while the base material is being installed.
5. Add and Compact the Base Material
Install a crushed stone base, usually using CA6, limestone screenings, or a similar compactable aggregate. Spread the material evenly across the area and grade it so water drains away from buildings, patios, and low spots.
Once the base is spread, compact it using a plate compactor. This step is very important because a poorly compacted base can lead to settling, uneven areas, and drainage issues later. The finished base should be firm, smooth, and slightly sloped for drainage.
6. Lay Out the Artificial Turf
Roll out the artificial turf over the prepared area and position it where it needs to go. Make sure there is enough extra turf around the edges so it can be trimmed for a tight fit. A carpet kicker or turf stretcher can be used to help adjust the turf and pull out small wrinkles before fastening it down.
Make sure the turf blades are facing the same direction across the whole area. This keeps the color and texture consistent. Adjust the turf until it lines up with the edges, borders, and any seams.
7. Cut and Fit the Artificial Turf
Using a sharp utility knife, carefully trim the turf to fit the shape of the area. Always cut from the back side of the turf when possible, and take your time around curves and corners.
8. Secure the Turf
Once the turf is in place, secure it using turf nails or staples around the perimeter and throughout the field as needed. Space the nails evenly and make sure they are driven down firmly without pinching the turf blades.
If there are seams, use seam tape and turf adhesive to connect the pieces. Make sure the edges of both turf pieces are tight together and the blades are facing the same direction so the seam is less noticeable.
9. Add Infill
Spread the infill evenly across the turf using a drop spreader or by hand for smaller areas. Work in light layers instead of dumping too much in one spot. The infill settles between the blades and helps the turf stand upright, stay in place, and feel more natural.
After spreading the infill, brush the turf against the grain with a stiff broom, turf rake, or power broom. This helps the infill drop down into the turf instead of sitting on top. It also lifts the blades and gives the finished area a cleaner, fuller look.
Some pet turf systems use little to no infill, while others use a pet-safe antimicrobial or odor-control infill designed for drainage and cleanup. Avoid using regular infill without checking the turf manufacturer’s recommendation, since pet areas need to drain well and reduce odor buildup.
10. Brush and Finish the Artificial Turf
After the infill is installed, use a power broom, stiff push broom, or turf rake to brush the turf blades upright. This gives the turf a fuller, cleaner, more natural appearance.
Check the edges, seams, and corners to make sure everything is secure. Blow off any loose debris, rinse the turf if needed, and make any final adjustments. Once finished, the area should be clean, level, secure, and ready to use.
