Blog Business & Services GreenLifeDesigns May 19, 2025 0 Comments

Artificial Turf Installation Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week

Installing artificial turf transforms your yard into a vibrant, low-maintenance space. Instead of grass that needs constant care, you’ll enjoy a lush, green lawn or putting green all year round. Below is a detailed, week-by-week guide showing you exactly what happens during the best artificial turf installation—from planning to finishing touches, including tips for a smooth putting green installation.

Week 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure and Design Your Space

Take accurate measurements of your lawn or future putting green using a tape measure or laser measure.
Sketch a layout, noting gates, walkways, garden beds, and any features you want—like a practice hole for your putting green.
Consider slopes and drainage: mark low spots where water might pool and ensure a gentle slope away from building foundations.

2. Choose the Right Turf

Pile height: short pile (½”–¾”) is ideal for a realistic putting green surface; medium (1″–1½”) for patios or play areas; tall (2″) for lawns.
Fiber type: polyethylene offers softness for lawns and putting greens; nylon stands up to heavy foot traffic.
Backing and drainage rating: choose turf with a drainage rate of at least 30 inches per hour per square yard to avoid puddles.

3. Gather Materials and Tools

Materials: turf rolls, landscape fabric, crushed rock or decomposed granite, sand infill, putting green cup system (if adding a hole), edging materials.
Tools: shovel, rake, plate compactor (rental), utility knife, turf cutter (optional), seam tape and glue, stiff broom, measuring stakes and string.

4. Permits and Regulations

Check local codes: some cities require permits for large yard modifications.
HOA rules: if you have a homeowners association, confirm approval for both artificial turf and putting green installation.

Week 2: Site Clearing and Grading

1. Remove Existing Grass and Debris

Strip out sod with a sod cutter or shovel to remove old grass and roots.
Clear rocks and roots to ensure nothing penetrates the turf backing.

2. Achieve Proper Grade

Set final slope: aim for 1–2% slope away from your home or patio (about ¼”–½” drop per foot). For putting greens, aim for subtle breaks—not too steep.
Rough grade: add or remove soil until the area is within ¼” of your desired grade.

3. Compact the Base

Plate compactor: firm up the soil base so it won’t settle unevenly.
Test firmness: the ground should feel solid with minimal give underfoot.

Week 3: Base Installation

1. Lay Landscape Fabric

Weed barrier: roll out landscaping cloth and secure with staples.
Overlap seams by at least 6 inches to block weeds fully.

2. Spread Base Material

Crushed rock or decomposed granite: add 2–3 inches for lawns; 3–4 inches for putting greens to achieve a firm, smooth surface.
Even distribution: rake until within a ¼” grade tolerance.

3. Final Base Compaction

Compact again: run the compactor across the entire area, focusing on edges and corners.
Verify slope: use a straight board and level to confirm consistency, especially important for putting breaks.

Week 4: Turf Installation

1. Roll Out Artificial Turf

Leave a small margin (2–3 inches) from walls or fences for trimming.
Align seams in the direction of foot traffic or play direction on your putting green.

2. Trim to Fit

Use a sharp utility knife: cut curves, holes for cups, and edges cleanly.
Match pile direction: all turf fibers should lean the same way for a uniform look.

3. Seam and Secure

Seam tape and adhesive: join adjacent pieces with tape under the seam, apply glue, then press firmly.
Secure perimeter: use U-stakes or landscape pins every 6–8 inches.

Week 5: Infill and Brushing

1. Apply Infill Material

Sand infill: best for putting greens to provide consistent ball roll; rubber or mixed infill for lawns.
Spread evenly: aim for 1–1½ pounds per square foot using a spreader or by hand.

2. Brush the Turf

Nylon-bristled broom: brush against the grain to lift fibers and help infill settle.
Repeat: ensure infill fills the spaces between blades for stability.

3. Water and Settle (Optional)

Light mist: wet sand infill to help it settle into place—especially useful for putting green surfaces.
Curing time: wait 24–48 hours before regular use.

Week 6: Finishing Touches and Inspection

1. Trim and Edge

Trim overhangs cleanly around edges and cup holes.
Install edging: secure plastic, metal, or stone edging for a polished look and to keep infill contained.

2. Check Drainage

Run water: confirm no pooling on lawns or putting greens.
Adjust grade or add infill if water collects in low spots.

3. Final Inspection

Walk the surface: look for wrinkles, loose seams, or soft spots.
Secure or re-glue: repair any areas that feel unstable before full use.

Common Questions and Tips

How Long Will My Turf Last?

Quality artificial turf typically lasts 10–15 years with basic brushing and debris removal.

Can I Install Turf Myself?

Yes—if you follow this week-by-week plan. For a 500–800 sq. ft. project, expect 2–3 weekends.

What About Putting Green Installation?

Install a dedicated cup system and use silica sand infill for reliable ball roll. Minor slope breaks can add challenge.

Pets and Kids Friendly?

Opt for pet-friendly turf backing and nontoxic infill. Rinse weekly to keep it fresh for kids and animals.

Seasonal Preferences

Spring/Fall: best—moderate temps and lower rainfall make installation smooth.
Summer: work early to beat heat—turf backing can get warm.
Winter: avoid frozen or muddy ground conditions.

Maintenance Routine

Monthly brushing: maintains upright fibers.
Debris clearing: a leaf blower or rake keeps surface clean.
Spot rinsing: handle spills or pet messes with water and a mild soap.

Keywords and Clusters for Better Search Visibility

Primary keywords: best artificial turf installation, putting green installation, turf installation timeline, synthetic grass.
Supporting phrases: turf prep, base compaction, landscape fabric, sand infill, turf seams, cup system.
Long-tail terms: week by week turf guide, DIY artificial grass steps, turf drainage solutions, putting green prep tips.
Related entities: plate compactor rental, utility knife, landscape edging, infill materials, putting green cups.

Naturally weaving these terms builds a robust topic cluster. Covering planning, prep, installation, specialized putting green steps, finishing, and upkeep helps search engines surface your content for a wide range of user queries.

Final Thoughts

A best artificial turf installation combines careful planning with step-by-step execution over six weeks. Adding a putting green installation brings fun and functionality to your yard. Follow each phase—planning, prep, base work, turf laying, infill, and finishing touches—to avoid surprises and create a flawless, evergreen lawn and practice green. Enjoy your new low-maintenance, high-performance outdoor space!