How Long Does it Take to Install Artificial Grass?

Last Updated on January, 2025

Alright, let’s get real about how long it takes to install artificial turf. 

You’d be surprised, artificial turf installation usually only takes 1-2 days for most gardens! 

For a typical 30-40 square foot area, artificial grass installation can be completed in just a day if everything’s ready. But if you’re working with a bigger space, say around 100 square meters, installing artificial turf could stretch to three days. 

Now, if you’re tackling a huge space, with easy access and lots of daylight, a pro team can finish a 250 square meter area in about 4.5 days.

Of course, even if the timeline sounds quick, certain factors can stretch (or shrink) the installation time. Let’s look at what might make turf installation longer or shorter, so you can make an informed decision.

Quick Summary

• Artificial grass installation usually takes 1-2 days for small to medium gardens, 3 days for larger spaces, and up to 4-5 days for very large areas with added features or complex designs.
• Key factors include the size of the area, accessibility, ground preparation, design intricacies like curves or edging, weather conditions, and additional features like shock pads or putting greens.
• Professional installation is faster (1-3 days), more precise, and better suited for challenging conditions, while DIY can take much longer and may lack the same level of expertise for seams, edges, and tough soil.

Key Factors Affecting Artificial Grass Installation Time

1. Size of the AreaThe size of your artificial lawns is probably the biggest factor. A small patch of synthetic grass for the dog or a putting green is a quicker install. But if you’re going big with a full artificial lawn covering the whole yard, it’ll take more time and involve laying multiple pieces.
2. AccessibilityEasy access can speed up the installation process. If the installers can walk right into the area, without squeezing through narrow pathways or climbing stairs, artificial turf installation moves faster. But difficult access can add time, and possibly extra labor costs.
3. Ground PreparationThe condition of the soil matters, too. If your surface is relatively smooth, laying down the base layer goes quicker. But if extra excavation, leveling, or setting up proper drainage is needed, artificial turf installation can take longer. Ground preparation is crucial for a long-lasting lawn, so sometimes it’s worth taking the extra time for proper installation.
4. Design and EdgingCurves and intricate edging are more time-consuming than laying turf in a simple rectangle. Curved edges might need additional materials, like aluminum or brick, which can add time. Straight edges? Much easier.
5. Weather ConditionsWeather can be a factor in how long it takes to install turf. A few rain showers here and there won’t stop the show, but heavy rain can delay the entire procedure. Rain affects the surface prep and can slow down adhesive curing time, making the job take longer.
6. Special FeaturesExtra features like a shock absorption pad for playgrounds or a putting green add more time to the project. These features need precise work, like placing putting cups or adding fringe, so they’re well worth the added time for a unique space.

The Artificial Turf Installation: Step-by-Step Process

The process of installing artificial turf follows specific steps. Here’s what you can expect for a typical turf system:

1. Pre-Installation: First up, the area is cleared. Any old field debris, irrigation lines, pipes, or other obstacles are removed to prepare the ground for synthetic grass installation.
2. Base Preparation: Next, they add a layer of decomposed granite or another stable base material, creating a smooth foundation for the artificial lawns. This base layer is vital for stability and Good drainage.
3. Compacting the Base: The base is compacted, especially for playground areas, to prevent shifting. Double compaction may be used to really lock things in place, so nothing comes loose over the next few years.
4. Weed Barriers (Optional): Want extra weed protection? A weed barrier can go on top of the base to prevent growth, though it’s optional. Most people skip it, especially if they have pets, because the barrier can trap bacteria. Alternatively, a bit of weed killer can help.
5. Lay Artificial Grass: Time to roll out the new artificial turf! It’s laid with the turf fibers all facing the same direction to look as natural as possible. Laying artificial turf can be an art form, especially when installing turf with multiple pieces.
6. Trimming and Seaming: The turf is trimmed slightly larger than the area, and seam tape plus glue connects any sections. Proper seaming is key to ensure an even appearance with no visible gaps.
7. Securing the Turf: Once everything’s aligned, the edges are secured with nails or staples every few inches to keep things flush. It’s important to ensure nails don’t stick up, so the turf is secure and safe for everyone using it.
8. Applying Infill: After everything’s in place, it’s time for the infill material, which keeps the blades upright. Infill also adds weight to the turf and can improve durability. A power brush is used to spread it evenly, helping the artificial grass look lush and realistic.
9. Final Grooming: The last step is a final brush to remove any stray bits and ensure the infill is settled nicely. After that, your new artificial turf is ready for action!

DIY vs. Professional Turf Installation

Thinking about DIY? If you’ve got a small area, installing artificial grass yourself can be manageable. But for large yards or areas with challenging soil, a professional installer is often the better choice. Here’s why:

• Time Savings: Pros usually finish artificial grass installation in 1-3 days, while DIY can take double that. Professionals have the proper equipment and experience to streamline the entire procedure.
• Handling Tough Soil: Rocky or rooted soil can be hard to excavate, especially to the needed 3-inch depth for synthetic grass installation. A professional contractor can make the job easier, ensuring proper maintenance plan and durability.
• Seaming and Edging Expertise: Proper installation of seams makes all the difference, especially with large areas that involve multiple pieces. Professionals have the skills for seamless connections that look natural.

Special Types of Turf Installation

Different areas may need specific installation methods. Here are some examples:

• Playground Turf

For playgrounds, additional padding is often added to the base for safety. Pads are spaced slightly apart to allow for expansion and contraction. The installation may use seaming tape and glue instead of nails to avoid any injury risks.

• Turf Around Hardscape

When placing new artificial turf around hardscape (like concrete slabs, driveways, or patios), keeping the turf system grain direction consistent creates a clean look. A higher face-weight turf works well in these areas for durability and quick recovery.

• Putting Greens

Putting greens take more time due to their thicker base layers and precise infill placement. The putting green’s irrigation lines and slope need extra attention for smooth play.

Useful guides:

• Does Artificial Grass Get Hot?

Wrapping Up

All in all, artificial turf installation doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out process. For most standard yards, it takes around 1-3 days, but larger projects or designs with added features might go up to 4-5 days.

Knowing the factors involved, like base layers, soil prep, and the steps in the installation process, helps you make a decision.

Ready for that perfect artificial lawn without the mowing, watering, or mud? 

Give us a call to discuss your project, and let’s create your ideal outdoor spaces! Whether it’s a small synthetic grass patch, a lush artificial lawn, or even a customized playground area, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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