Laying turf is a popular way to quickly create a green, lush lawn. However, laying turf requires a bit of planning, preparation, and execution to achieve a healthy and perfect-looking lawn. But rest assured, spending time and some money to create an appealing lawn can pay dividends! So, let’s go through the four essential steps for laying turf; preparation, earthworks, levelling and drainage.
Laying Turf Preparation
The preparation stage is critical for the success of the turf-laying process. Firstly, measure the area you want to lay turf on. This step will help you calculate the amount of turf you need. Next, remove any existing weeds or grasses, rocks, and other debris. You may want to use herbicides to kill the remaining grass and weeds. Also, for a rich-looking lawn, it is advisable to apply some fertilizers to help create a suitable growing environment for the grassroots.
Earthworks and Excavation
The next step in laying turf is to prepare the soil for the turf. The soil used when laying the turf should be well-drained and of high quality. So, excavate the existing soil to a depth of about 150mm, remove any rocks or debris, and remove excess soil.
Levelling
Once the base has been prepared, it’s time to level the area. Levelling ensures that your grass lays uniformly and looks well-manicured. To create a level surface, use a screed board and roller to firm the soil and then rake to remove any remaining debris or bumps. After rolling, spread a layer of sand over the soil, which will help create a more level surface.
Drainage
Proper drainage is essential to facilitate good root development and healthy grass growth. Essentially, you want to ensure water drains away from the soil without waterlogging. Moreover, if there are large areas where water can stand or flow, consider installing drainage pipes to direct water away from the soil. Finally, you can slope the soil slightly so water flows away from the lawn.
Laying Turf
Now that you have prepared the soil, levelled the area, and ensured proper drainage, it’s time to lay the turf. First, start by unrolling the first turf along a straight edge, such as a garden bed or pathway. Make sure the edges are lined up precisely to avoid gaps or overlaps. Secondly, as you lay each subsequent piece of turf, stagger the joints like brickwork to create a seamless and natural look. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess turf to fit around corners or irregular shapes. Next, after laying all the turf, use a roller to firmly press it into the soil, ensuring good contact between the roots and the ground. Finally, water the turf thoroughly, keeping it consistently moist in the days following installation to help the roots establish, and the turf settle well.
