Thinking about upgrading your backyard with some lush, green artificial grass? 

You’re not alone!

In Melbourne, more and more homeowners are making the switch to synthetic turf, attracted by the low maintenance, water savings, and the ability to have a perfectly green lawn all year round.

But laying artificial grass on soil can feel like a daunting task if you don’t know where to start. The good news? With the right guidance, it’s a project that even a DIY enthusiast can tackle with confidence.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about installing synthetic grass directly on the soil. We’ll cover important considerations for Melbourne’s unique climate, the essential preparation steps, and the materials you’ll need. 

Plus, we’ll offer some expert tips to ensure your artificial turf stays looking sharp for years to come.

Whether you’re aiming for a child-friendly play area or simply want a lawn that requires minimal upkeep, this guide has got you covered.

By the end of this tutorial, you’ll know the ins and outs of laying synthetic grass, from prepping the soil to achieving that perfect finish.

Let’s get started!

The Essential Components for Laying Artificial Grass: A Comprehensive Guide

Artificial Grass

The most crucial component is the artificial lawn itself. Not all synthetic turf is created equal, so you’ll want to select a product that matches your intended use and the overall aesthetic you’re going for.

Types of Artificial Grass

Synthetic turf comes in different pile heights, textures, and densities. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Short Pile (10-20mm): Best for decorative areas or low-traffic spots. It provides a neat, manicured look without too much cushioning.
  • Medium Pile (25-35mm): Ideal for most residential lawns. It offers a natural appearance and enough softness for kids and pets.
  • Long Pile (40mm+): Perfect for high-traffic areas where you want a lush, soft feel. The longer blades can handle wear and tear without looking flat.

Crushed Rock or Aggregate Base

A solid base of crushed rock or aggregate ensures proper drainage and keeps your synthetic lawn from shifting or sinking over time. The base material is essential for Melbourne’s sometimes wet weather, as it helps prevent waterlogging and puddling.

Types of Crushed Rock

Typically, you’ll want to use a type of crushed rock that is 20mm in size or smaller. Common options include:

  • Crusher Dust: A fine material that compacts well, providing a stable base.
  • Road Base: Offers good compaction but is slightly larger in particle size, which may be necessary for areas with poor drainage.

Geotextile Fabric

Geotextile fabric, also known as landscape fabric or weed membrane, is laid between the soil and the crushed rock base. Its main function is to prevent weeds from growing through the artificial turf and disrupting your pristine lawn.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Look for heavy-duty, permeable geotextile fabric. This allows water to pass through for drainage while keeping unwanted plants at bay.

The fabric should be durable enough to last under crushed rock and fake grass without tearing or degrading over time.

Joining Tape and Adhesive

If your artificial grass installation requires more than one piece of turf, you’ll need joining tape and adhesive to ensure the seams are invisible and secure. This will give your lawn a seamless, professional finish.

Types of Joining Products

  • Self-Adhesive Tape: This is a convenient option for smaller jobs and DIY installations. It’s easy to apply and doesn’t require additional glue.
  • Non-Adhesive Tape with Adhesive Glue: For larger or more complicated installations, using a non-adhesive joining tape with an additional turf adhesive provides a stronger bond.

Turf Pins or Galvanised Nails

Turf pins (also known as galvanised nails or U-pins) are essential for securing your artificial turf around the edges and any seams. They ensure the grass stays in place, especially in high-traffic areas or windy conditions.

Types of Pins

Look for rust-resistant, galvanised nails or pins. Standard sizes range from 150mm to 200mm long, with a U-shape or flat-head style that secures the grass without being too noticeable.

Optional: Infill Material

Infill is not always necessary but can be beneficial for keeping the blades of artificial lawn upright and giving a more natural feel underfoot. The type of infill you choose depends on the look and feel you want to achieve.

Types of Infill

  • Silica Sand: The most common type of infill, silica sand provides weight and support to help the blades stand upright.
  • Rubber Granules: Offers a softer feel and is often used in areas designed for kids or pets.

Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Artificial Grass on Soil

Preparing the Area

Before you can lay down any synthetic turf, you need to get the area ready. Proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth, professional finish.

Clear the Existing Lawn and Debris

  • Remove any existing grass, weeds, rocks, and debris using a shovel or turf cutter.
  • If you’re dealing with a large area, consider renting a turf cutter from a local tool hire shop to make the job easier.
  • Make sure to dig to a depth of at least 50mm to remove all roots and potential weed growth.

Install a Weed Barrier

Lay down a geotextile fabric over the bare soil to prevent weeds from growing through your synthetic grass. This will also help with drainage, which is crucial in Melbourne’s climate.

Creating the Base Layer

This step is critical to ensuring your artificial grass lays flat and remains stable over time.

Spread the Crushed Rock or Aggregate

  • Pour your crushed rock or road base into the area where the grass will be laid. Aim for a depth of 50-70mm.
  • Use a rake to distribute the material evenly across the area.
  • If you’re working on a larger surface, use a wheelbarrow to transport the aggregate.

Compact the Base

  • After spreading the rock, use a compactor or tamper to compact the base. This will create a firm foundation for your synthetic turf and help with drainage.
  • Check the surface with a spirit level to ensure it’s even. Fill in any low spots and re-compact as necessary.

Laying the Artificial Grass

Now comes the fun part—laying out your synthetic turf.

Roll Out the Artificial Grass

  • Start by rolling out your synthetic lawn over the prepared base. Let it sit for a couple of hours to allow the grass to settle and any wrinkles to flatten out.
  • If your area is large and requires more than one roll of turf, make sure the grass blades are all facing the same direction for a seamless look.

Cut the Grass to Size

  • Use a utility knife to carefully cut the artificial turf to fit your space. Make sure the edges sit flush with any borders or garden edging.
  • When cutting, avoid trimming too close to the base, as you want the grass to sit neatly along the edges.

Join Multiple Pieces of Grass

  • If you have multiple rolls of grass, lay the edges of the pieces side by side. Use jointing tape and adhesive to bond the pieces together.
  • After applying the adhesive, press the seams together firmly to avoid any gaps or noticeable joins. A broom or roller can help ensure the bond is secure.

Securing the Artificial Grass

Once your fake grass is in position, you’ll need to secure it to ensure it doesn’t shift or lift over time.

Fix the Grass with Turf Pins or Galvanised Nails

  • Place turf pins around the perimeter of the grass, spaced about every 20-30cm. For areas with high foot traffic, consider placing additional pins to prevent movement.
  • Hammer the pins or nails into the base until they’re flush with the surface of the grass, being careful not to crush the turf fibres.

Brush the Grass to Stand Up the Fibres

  • Once the grass is secured, use a stiff broom or power brush to brush the fibres upward. This will help the grass blades stand upright and create a more natural look.

Optional: Add Infill

  • Depending on the type you’ve chosen, you may want to add a layer of infill (like silica sand or rubber granules) to support the grass blades and improve drainage.
  • Spread the infill evenly across the surface, and use a broom to brush it into the turf.

Final Touches and Inspections

With the grass laid and secured, take a moment to review your work and make any necessary adjustments.

Check for Any Raised Edges

  • Walk along the perimeter and ensure there are no raised edges or gaps between the turf and the ground. If needed, add more turf pins to secure any loose areas.
  • Ensure that the seams between rolls are invisible and that the grass looks uniform across the entire area.

Water Test the Drainage

  • If you’ve installed your grass on a base that requires drainage considerations, now’s a good time to test how water flows through the grass.
  • Hose down a section of the lawn to check for pooling or slow drainage. If water isn’t draining properly, you may need to adjust the base or add more aggregate in low areas.

When to Call in a Professional

Installing synthetic turf can be a rewarding DIY project, but there are certain situations where calling in a professional is the best option:

  • Large or Complex Installations: If your lawn area is large or has multiple curves, slopes, or obstacles, hiring a professional installer can save time and ensure the job is done correctly.
  • Drainage Concerns: If your soil has poor drainage or if your property is prone to flooding, it’s best to consult an expert to design a drainage system that works with your artificial lawn.
  • Time Constraints: Installation can be a time-consuming process, especially for beginners. If you’re short on time or prefer a faster turnaround, professionals will have the experience to complete the job quickly.

Ready to Transform Your Lawn? Contact Reelgrass Today!

Whether you’re ready to start your landscaping project or simply need more personalised advice, the team at Reelgrass is here to help.

Our team of experts can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect turf to ensuring a professional installation.

Don’t leave your dream lawn to chance—partner with Melbourne’s industry leader for a seamless, long-lasting solutions.

Get in touch with Reelgrass today at 1300 306 389 or claim your fast and FREE quote online now.