Artificial turf installation is a growing trend among Nova Scotia homeowners and businesses looking for a clean, low-maintenance landscape solution. While artificial grass offers long-term durability and aesthetic appeal, proper installation is essential to ensure lasting results. As a professional landscaping company in Halifax, Oakhill Outdoor shares expert insight into the precise steps and materials involved in turf installation.
Here is a detailed, step-by-step tutorial on how to install artificial turf, designed to show just how complex the process really is.
Step 1: Planning & Site Evaluation
Every successful turf installation in Nova Scotia begins with careful planning.
- Measurements: Accurately measure your lawn area and order 10–15% more turf than needed to account for trimming and fitting.
- Drainage and Slope: Evaluate site grading and drainage to prevent pooling.
- Turf Type: Select a high-quality synthetic grass rated for UV protection and heavy foot traffic.
Clients often overlook slope and product selection, two of the most important factors in artificial lawn longevity.
Step 2: Excavation & Ground Preparation
A proper sub-base is essential for drainage, stability, and overall performance.
- Excavation: Remove 6–8 inches of soil and vegetation from the mapped out area.
- Weed Barrier: Lay a commercial-grade geotextile fabric to block weed growth.
- Base Material: Add a 3-inch layer of ¾ inch clear crushed limestone
- Compaction: Use a plate compactor to firmly pack the base material. This prevents the ground from shifting or sinking over time, especially important in Nova Scotia, where freeze-thaw cycles can cause uneven settling if the base isn’t solid.
Improper base compaction is one of the leading causes of turf failure in do-it-yourself landscaping projects.
Step 3: Fine Grading & Surface Leveling
This step ensures your turf lies flat and drains correctly
- Crusher Dust Layer: Add a 2-3 inch layer of crusher dust on top of the initial compacted base. This fine material helps fill small voids, creating a smooth surface for the turf to rest on.
- Rake and Grade: Use aluminum rakes to smooth the base and introduce a slight slope (1–2%) away from buildings and infrastructure.
- Final Compaction: Compact the new base layer using a 200-lb plate compactor to eliminate dips and soft spots.
Step 4: Laying & Cutting Turf
Precision in layout prevents wrinkles, bunching, and visible seams.
- Acclimation: Let turf sit unrolled for 1–2 hours to unfold any prevent creases.
- Direction: Always run turf grain in the same direction for visual consistency.
- Trimming: Use a sharp utility knife to cut edges precisely along walkways, gardens, and curves.
Step 5: Securing Seams & Edges
Properly aligning cut pieces is crucial for a seamless, professional appearance.
- Seam Tape and Adhesive: Use professional-grade seam tape and polyurethane turf glue to connect multiple rolls.
- Fastening: Secure turf edges with 6" galvanized turf nails every 6–8 inches along the perimeter.
Step 6: Infill & Finishing
Infill stabilizes turf blades and improves comfort underfoot.
- Infill Type: Spread 1–2 pounds per square foot of kiln-dried silica sand.
- Brushing: Power broom or brush the turf to lift blades and evenly distribute infill.
- Watering: Lightly water the turf to help settle the infill and remove surface dust.
Why Hiring a Landscaping Company Makes Sense
From base grading to infill selection, artificial turf installation in Nova Scotia is more technical than it seems. It requires advanced tools, a deep understanding of drainage, and the experience to ensure long-term durability.
At Oakhill Outdoor, we handle full-service landscaping projects from design to completion. Our turf installations are backed by precision workmanship, on-time execution, and guaranteed results.
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