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    Choosing the Right Artificial Grass

    Over the last 5 years the range of artificial grass or astroturf (as its more commonly the referred to in the UK) has been said to have trebled. This is mainly due the price dropping dramatically due to manufacturers increasing their production as demand from UK customers has increased.

    This means that astroturf has become a viable option as a permanent replacement for 'real' grass and turf. Many home owners and businesses are turning to astroturf.

    The internet has a vast choice of suppliers and installers and we intend to give you advice as to how the get the best out of purchasing your artificial grass online.

    DIY or call in the Professionals?


    One of the first thing you will need to address is can you lay the grass yourself or are you going to need to call in professional help?

    To give to you an idea up to 80% of the total price of your artificial grass will be installation cost.
    A small garden area of 4m x 8m would cost £320 in artificial grass (£10 sqm)
    Cost of labour to include preparing the area and install up to £800 (£25 sqm)
    Total cost £1,120

    Given these prices the benefits in DIY are clear however....

    With artificial grass at a price of £20 sqm, cut it wrong and you may have just have wasted £800!!!!
    Due to this we recommend that any artificial grass costing more than £20sqm be installed professionally

    The DIY route

    What's involved in preparing the ground ready for this type of grass?
    To fit artificial grass there are some basic work that will need to done to prepare the area.

    Replacing Natural Lawn


    1. Remove the grass sod by hand or by using a turf cutter for larger areas.
    2. You should then level and compact the ground. This is usually done by adding or removing soil and then compacting it down with something heavy; in most cases your foot will do a sufficient job.
    3. Lay a levelling layer of sharp sand to provide a level surface on which to lay the grass.

    On top of even level hard bases (Driveways, Patios, Balconies, Decked Areas etc)
    1. No preparation necessary you can get artificial turf that goes directly to hard surfaces. A rubber bubble backing allows for the drainage of water. You may also want to invest in some decent drainage system as this will help area concerned with flooding.

    Laying the grass


    1. Unroll the artificial grass onto the base; this is best done by at least two people.
    2. Check for damage, tears, rips, stains caused during delivery. Do not proceed to install until you have contacted the retailer if damage has been caused.
    3. Trim the artificial grass to size using a sharp utility knife or scissors. Make sure that you have accurate measurements before trimming. Ideally you will want to lay the grass down and trim around to remove the excess.
    4. Some grass need infilling by brushing special sand like material into it. Your supplier will be able to advise you on this when purchasing.