Artificial Grass Installation: What You Really Need to Know

When you install artificial grass, a synthetic lawn designed to look and feel like real grass without the upkeep. Also known as synthetic turf, it’s a smart choice for UK gardens where weather, soil, or time make natural grass a hassle. But here’s the truth: installing it right makes all the difference. A poorly done job looks fake, feels bumpy, and can even trap water or attract pests. Do it well, and you get a lawn that lasts 15+ years, looks lush year-round, and needs almost zero work.

Getting started means understanding a few key parts: ground preparation, the base layer that supports the turf and drains water away, infill, the sand or rubber granules that weigh down the blades and keep them upright, and edging, the border that holds everything in place and gives a clean finish. Skip any of these, and you’re asking for trouble. Too little base? The grass sinks. Wrong infill amount? It mats down or shifts. No edging? The edges curl up like old carpet. These aren’t just details—they’re the foundation.

You don’t need fancy tools, but you do need the right ones. A shovel, a rake, a tamper, a utility knife, and a broom are enough for most jobs. Some pros use a power compactor for the base, but if you’re doing it yourself, a hand tamper works fine. Don’t skip measuring your space twice—cutting turf too short is a common mistake. And never lay it over weeds. Remove them first, then lay down landscape fabric to stop regrowth. The best installations start with clean, level ground. Think of it like laying tiles—you wouldn’t put them on a crooked floor, right?

Weather matters too. Install on a dry day, ideally in spring or early autumn. Avoid freezing temperatures or heavy rain. The ground needs to be firm, not muddy. If you’ve just had a wet winter, wait a week or two after the last downpour. And don’t rush the infill. Spread it evenly, then brush it in with a stiff broom. Too much sand? It weighs down the blades and makes the lawn feel hard. Too little? The grass flops over and looks flat. A good rule of thumb: aim for about 1-2kg per square meter.

People often think artificial grass is just ‘lay and forget.’ It’s not. It needs a quick brush once a month to keep blades standing, and leaves should be cleared regularly. But compared to mowing, watering, feeding, and reseeding a real lawn? This is peace of mind. You’ll save hours, water, and money over time. And the best part? You can enjoy it in winter, after rain, or during a heatwave—all without a single patch of brown.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve installed artificial grass in their own gardens. From fixing uneven ground to choosing the right infill, these posts cut through the noise and give you what actually works. No theory. No fluff. Just what to do, when to do it, and how to fix it if you mess up.