To help your synthetic grass look and feel as real as possible, you need to apply infill once it’s been secured in place. Not sure what to put under artificial grass? The manufacturer of your artificial turf will determine the best type of infill to use, which can range from acrylic-coated sand to crumb rubber. Once you’ve narrowed down the best infill option, use a drop spreader to event disperse the infill throughout the lawn. After the infill has been spread throughout the yard, you need to brush it into the artificial turf until it sinks completely below the grass, helping the blades stand up in place.
Category: Non Infill Artificial Turf
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Cut Turf to Size Secure the Perimeter
- After rolling out the artificial turf over top of the area where it’s being installed, you will need to make the appropriate cuts. Using carpet cutters or razor knives you should cut the turf to the desired shape, allowing for an extra 1/4’’ to 1/2’’ on the edge of your border to allow for the perfect fit. This is also when you should use artificial grass seam tape or glue to fuse your sheets of turf if you are installing multiple pieces. Allow the glue to set for at least 15 minutes before moving onto the next step.
- Using the 1/4’’ to 1/2’’ of extra turf you left on the edge, tuck the artificial turf into the border of the installation area using a metal putty knife and hammer. For added stability, use non-galvanized turf nails or staples to secure the turf to the ground about every six inches along the outside perimeter. Additional nails and staples should be used on the insides areas of the turf to prevent the turf from coming loose.
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Lay Your Base Material Roll Out Your Artificial Grass
- Now that your yard has been prepped, it’s time to lay your base material that will go below your turf lawn to absorb water and prevent uneven pooling. Your base material can consist of stones or gravel smaller than 3/8 inches, crushed rock, or decomposed granite. You will need enough base material to add a three to four-inch layer on top of the soil to ensure your yard has adequate drainage.
- Once the base material is in place, it’s time for the fun part — laying out your artificial grass! Roll out your turf lawn over the area where it is being installed and allow it to sit in the sun for half an hour. If you skip this step, the artificial turf may expand after you cut it to fit the space, causing you to do rework by recutting the grass. Keep in mind that if you are working with multiple rolls of artificial turf, you want to ensure the blades are all aligned in the same direction for a seamless and natural appearance.
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How to Install Artificial Turf
There’s something about the look of artificial turf that takes a backyard to the next level. This might leave you wondering how much it costs to have artificial grass installed. Although it looks remarkable, will it fit within your home improvement budget? Luckily, there are step-by-step installation instructions you can follow to install your DIY artificial grass.
If you want to learn how to install artificial turf, you’ve come to the right place. Our turf installation guide explains what to put under artificial grass, how to lay artificial turf, and more.
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Types of Artificial Grass Sub-Base
Now that it’s clear why you must install a sub-base for your artificial lawn, you may find yourself wondering “What base do I need for artificial grass?” While only you can determine the best sub-base for artificial grass in your backyard, it’s important that you do your research to understand the different materials available. Artificial turf sub-base materials are broken down into three main categories:
- CMB – Made of recycled asphalt or concrete and a ¾” mixture of sand, gravel, or sand, a crushed miscellaneous base is an ideal option to lay between the ground and your artificial turf.
- Class II road base – Another option is Class II road base which goes through a rigorous testing process to ensure that it provides you with optimal consistency and durability. Because of this testing process, it often runs at a higher price point than CMB.
- DG – Decomposed granite is a sub-base composed of granite sand, gravel, and clay mixed together to create a stable and structurally sound layer for your synthetic lawn.
Of these three sub-base materials, CMB is the most commonly selected because of its cost-effectiveness and durability. While it’s the most popular, it necessarily doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for your backyard. Consult with an artificial grass lawn installation company before deciding on the best sub-base material for your project.
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Combining Aesthetic and Practicality
For landscape designers, artificial grass offers unparalleled versatility. It can be used to enhance a variety of landscape styles, from modern minimalist designs to more traditional, lush gardens. Artificial turf can seamlessly blend into different environments, providing an evergreen look that complements plant life, stone features, and water-wise garden elements.
Artificial grass is especially popular in climates prone to water shortages, but its appeal extends beyond practical use. It offers endless possibilities for custom designs, combining beauty and functionality to meet the needs of today’s homeowners and businesses.
Sustainable Landscaping Solutions for the Future
At Turf Distributors, we are committed to providing sustainable landscaping solutions that benefit our partners and the environment. Artificial grass offers a water-saving, low-maintenance, and durable option that meets the needs of today’s landscape projects. Whether you’re creating outdoor living areas, kid-friendly play zones, or modern, drought-tolerant designs, artificial grass can be a key component in achieving a beautiful, sustainable, and functional outdoor space.
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The Benefits: Beyond Water Savings
Artificial grass isn’t just about water conservation—it also provides multiple long-term advantages that make it a smart investment for landscapers and property owners alike.
1. Low Maintenance, High Reward
Traditional lawns require constant upkeep—mowing, watering, fertilizing, and pest control. Artificial grass, on the other hand, is virtually maintenance-free. Once installed, it doesn’t need watering, mowing, or harmful chemicals, reducing both time and money spent on upkeep. For busy property owners, this is an attractive feature that allows them to enjoy their landscape without the hassle of ongoing care.2. Cost Savings
While the initial cost of installing artificial grass may be higher than planting a traditional lawn, the long-term savings quickly outweigh the upfront investment. With no need for irrigation, fertilizer, or lawn care services, artificial turf becomes a cost-efficient solution. Additionally, because it is designed to withstand heavy use and weather conditions, it lasts for years without needing replacement.3. Family and Pet-Friendly
Artificial grass creates safe, functional outdoor spaces for families with children and pets. Unlike natural grass, it’s free from chemicals, mud, and allergens, making it a cleaner option for outdoor play. Plus, artificial turf is durable enough to handle high foot traffic and activities like running, jumping, and even digging from pets—without showing signs of wear and tear. -
Here are some innovative ways to incorporate artificial grass into water-saving landscape designs:
1. Mixed Hardscaping and Turf Areas
One of the most effective ways to design a water-efficient landscape is by combining artificial turf with hardscaping elements like pavers, stone pathways, and gravel. This reduces the overall footprint of vegetation while creating visually appealing outdoor spaces. Artificial grass can soften the look of large hardscaped areas, offering greenery without the need for irrigation.2. Drought-Tolerant Plant Pairings
Incorporate artificial grass alongside native and drought-tolerant plants, such as succulents and ornamental grasses. This combination creates a lush and layered landscape that feels natural but uses minimal water. Grouping plants strategically around artificial turf can create a dynamic contrast and enhance the overall design.3. Synthetic Grass for Outdoor Living Areas
Many homeowners are transforming their backyards into outdoor living areas where they can relax and entertain. By using artificial grass, designers can create vibrant green spaces for seating areas, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. This combination of greenery and functionality offers the perfect balance between comfort and sustainability.4. Artificial Grass Accents in Vertical Gardens
For properties with limited horizontal space, vertical gardens are a trendy and eco-friendly solution. Incorporating artificial turf into vertical green walls can add depth and texture without increasing water use. Artificial grass panels can be interspersed with other elements like ivy, succulents, or colorful flowering plants to create striking visual effects.5. Play Areas and Pet Spaces
Artificial grass is an ideal solution for play zones and pet-friendly areas. It offers a soft, safe surface for children and pets to enjoy while being easy to clean and maintain. Creating dedicated play areas with artificial grass in family-friendly yards adds both functionality and visual appeal, without the wear and tear that natural grass endures. -
Creating Custom Landscaping Solutions with Artificial Grass
As water conservation becomes a pressing concern across the country, more landscape designers and property owners are seeking sustainable solutions that balance beauty with practicality. At Turf Distributors, we’re proud to offer artificial grass as a versatile tool in creating custom, water-saving landscapes that cater to modern needs. Artificial grass not only reduces water usage but also offers a host of other benefits, including low maintenance, cost savings, and family-friendly functionality.
Integrating Artificial Grass into Water-Saving Landscape Designs
Droughts and water restrictions are increasingly impacting homeowners and businesses alike, making traditional lawns less feasible. Artificial grass presents a solution that addresses these challenges while maintaining aesthetic appeal. In fact, studies show that replacing natural grass with artificial turf can save up to 55 gallons of water per square foot annually—making a significant impact on both utility bills and the environment.
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Flexibility and Strength: A Perfect Balance
One of the standout benefits of TriFlow Backing™ is how it balances strength with flexibility. The non-woven middle layer ensures the turf maintains its structure, while still being flexible enough to conform to uneven surfaces during installation. This feature makes it easy to install across a range of landscapes, whether you’re covering a sloping yard or a flat surface. Plus, the flexible design simplifies handling and storage, speeding up the installation process.
Exclusive to VistaPet™ Turf
VistaPet™ artificial grass, featuring TriFlow Backing™, is the perfect solution for pet owners who want a safe, low-maintenance, and beautiful lawn. With its superior fiber binding, excellent drainage, and unparalleled durability, VistaPet™ provides a worry-free surface for your pets to enjoy year-round. Whether they’re running, playing, or relaxing, your pets will love the comfort of VistaPet™, while you’ll appreciate how easy it is to keep clean and maintain.
The Ideal Choice for Pet Turf
Artificial grass backed by TriFlow technology is a game-changer for any pet-friendly landscape. It’s designed to not only look great but also to stand up to the challenges pets present, making it the ideal solution for homeowners who want a beautiful, resilient, and easy-to-maintain lawn. With the VistaPet™ turf, you get all the benefits of TriFlow Backing™—durability, drainage, strength, and flexibility—plus a lush, green surface that stays clean and safe for your pets and family.