Level and Compact:

• Use a landscape rake to level the base material.
• Lightly moisten the aggregate and compact it in 2–3 inch increments using a plate compactor. Avoid overwatering to prevent a sponge effect.

Check for Proper Drainage:

• Ensure the base slopes slightly (1–2%) away from structures for adequate water runoff.

Smooth the Surface:

• For two or three-layer drainage systems, finish with a layer of crusher fines to create a flat, smooth base. This supports the turf and ensures long-term stability.

Compaction Tips

• Lightly moisten the aggregate between compactor passes, avoiding excess water to prevent a sponge effect. Compact in 2-3 inch layers, finishing with crusher fines for a smooth, stable base that supports Premium Grass Blades turf.

When Not to Use a Weed Barrier

• Pet Areas: Weed barriers can trap urine, leading to odours. Instead, ensure proper compaction of the base material for drainage.
• High-Drainage Requirements: A weed barrier may slow water infiltration in areas with heavy rainfall or poor natural drainage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using a Barrier in Pet Areas: Traps urine, causing unpleasant odours.
• Insufficient Overlap: Can allow weeds to grow through seams.
• Poor-Quality Fabric: Thin or cheap materials can degrade quickly and compromise effectiveness.

Pro Tip

• Wildlife Protection: Use wire mesh to protect turf installations from moles and other wildlife.

Align Turf Grain:

• Inspect the turf to identify the pile direction (blade lean).
• Front yards: Orient blades towards the street.
• Backyards: Orient blades towards the house or primary viewing area.

Position Turf Rolls:

• Ensure gutters do not drain directly onto turf areas.
• Check for windows or any reflective surface that could magnify heat onto the turf and cause damage.
• Begin in a corner or along a straight edge to ensure uniform alignment across the area.
• Allow the rolls to acclimatize in a warm environment before installation. In colder climates, this step makes the turf more pliable and easier to work with.

Minimize Visible Seams:

• Avoid head seams (longitudinal joins) as they are harder to conceal.
• Use side seams (lateral joins), which are easier to blend as turf blades naturally cover the join.
• Maintain proper seam spacing to prevent a “mohawk” effect.

Lay the Turf:

• Roll out each section of turf, aligning edges carefully to maintain a seamless appearance.
• Overlap edges slightly for precise trimming later.

Cutting Along Walls and Fences:

• Gently pull the turf taut and press it against the base of the wall or fence.
• Position the utility knife on the turf backing closest to the obstacle.
• Make small, incremental cuts (3–4 inches at a time), ensuring the turf stays snugly positioned.
• Periodically lay the turf flat to check alignment, leaving a slight gap of no more than 1/8–2/8 inch from the edge for a flawless finish.

Trimming Around Corners, Trees, or Posts:

• Make relief cuts from the backing outward to remove excess material and ease the process.
• Regularly check for proper alignment and smooth transitions between sections.

Precision Cutting for Seaming: 

• Remove at least three rows of stitches from each turf piece for seamless integration.

Recess from Walkways: 

• Slightly recess the turf from walkways for a smooth transition between surfaces.

Turf Ribbon Removal:

• Always remove the ribbon from the edge of the turf.

Pro Tip:

• Keep blades sharp for clean edges; dull blades can fray turf. Trim precisely, allowing no more than 2/8 inch from the edge for a seamless, durable, and polished look.

Inserting Spikes:

• Insert spikes or landscape staples every 6 inches along the perimeter for stability.
• Then, secure the turf by placing spikes in rows up and down the turf for added reinforcement.
• Maintain a distance of approximately 2 inches from the turf’s edge to avoid fraying or uneven edges.
• Use one spike per square foot for optimal turf security.

Hammering Technique:

• Use gentle, even force when hammering spikes to avoid creating depressions in the turf.
• Ensure the nail or staple heads are flush with the backing without compressing the turf.
• Do not hammer nails into cold or hard ground to prevent damage or divets.

Tools for Brushing:

• Power Broom: Motorized bristles lift turf blades evenly, which is ideal for large installations.
• PGB’s Turf Rake: Nylon tines lift and refresh blades, making turf maintenance easier than bristle brooms.

Brushing Technique:

• Brush against the pile direction to lift blades and maintain an upright position.
• Use steady, even pressure when brushing to protect the turf backing and prevent shifting the base material. Avoid over-brushing seams to maintain a natural look and prevent separation.

Pro Tip:

• Before hammering spikes, pull the blades away to prevent trapping them under the head. This keeps the turf upright, smooth, and stable for a polished, professional finish.

Step 1: Preparing for Infill

Proper Preparation Ensures Effective Infill Application:

• Ensure Turf and Infill Are Dry: Moisture causes clumping and uneven distribution.
• Brush Blades Upright: Use a turf rake or power broom to distribute infill and provide proper blade support evenly.

Recommended Application Rates:

• Check Infill Requirements: Check infill requirements: Refer to the catalogue for recommended application rates per square foot.

Step 2: Applying the Infill

• Even Distribution: Spread in small sections to avoid clumps and ensure consistency.
• Application Tools: Use a seeder, spreader, or holed bucket for even distribution.
• Safety Precaution: Wear a face mask to avoid inhaling fine particles.

Key Benefits of Proper Infill:

• Prevents shifting, ensuring long-term durability and a polished appearance.
• Extends turf lifespan and maintains blade structure.

Choosing the Right Infill:

1. Silica Sand: 

• Recommended For: General use, including residential lawns, putting greens, and commercial spaces.
• Benefits: Cost-effective, adds weight, and supports blades for durability.

2. Zeolite Sand (ZeoOdour):

• Recommended For: Pet areas or spaces where children may come into direct contact with the infill.
• Benefits:
  • Neutralizes ammonia from pet urine to reduce odours.
  • Keeps turf cooler during hot months.
  • Eco-friendly and safe for children and pets.

Pro Tip

Combine different infills for cooling, deodorizing, and cost savings.