How to Install Artificial Grass: An Expert Guide

Is your garden lawn looking a little worn out? It’s incredibly easy to transform a garden into a stunning no-maintenance landscape by using our range of affordable, natural-looking artificial grass that will last for years.

Our PermaLawn weaves and yarns provide a hard-wearing solution that will bring a fresh look to your outdoor space, whether that’s a few square metres for your garden, a small rooftop green space, or a large-scale commercial project.

We’re here to help with every step, from arranging a free survey and planning your project to choosing the right artificial grass for your needs. We have a range of step-by-step installation guides for all our products and handy tips to guide you through a successful DIY fitting.

Read on to discover the best way to turn your garden into a lush oasis…

What tools do I need to install my new lawn?

• Artificial grass adhesive
• Weed membrane
• Seam tape
• Galvanised nails
• Carpet knife
• Compaction plate
• Adhesive comb
• Stiff broom
• Knee pads and gloves

Artificial grass installation guide

Step 1 – Prepare the ground

It is essential to have a well-prepared area to give the lawn optimal performance. When installed correctly, artificial grass can give all-year-round lushness, even in hot, dry weather and won’t become clogged when it rains.

Start by removing the existing turf and ensure there is a depth of 50mm (2 in) – and check that your garden has adequate drainage. Then install a tanalised timber batten to the perimeter to give a solid edge for your new lawn – or simply go up to the edge of a wall or pathway.

Next, remove any bumps to get a clean, level surface. Using a 6mm to dust granite stone, spread evenly across the area to a depth of 20mm to 40mm (use a straight edge of timber to level the granite).

Now apply a 25mm layer of sharp sand and compact down using a vibrating compacting plate. Place a layer of weed membrane across the entire surface and trim neatly to the perimeter. Use 100mm galvanised nails to keep the membrane in place – and also use if there is a joint, to ensure sufficient overlap.

Step 2 – Lay the turf

Unroll your PermaLawn, ensuring it is completely flat with no ripples – the flatter the better to give your lawn a more natural look. Use a sharp knife to carefully trim the excess around the edges.

Finally, fix the PermaLawn using 100mm galvanised nails – or you can spread kiln-dried sand across the entire lawn surface. We recommend a coverage rate of 8kg per sq m. Use a stiff brush to brush evenly into the pile (the best time to do this is when the lawn is dry) – don’t worry, you won’t see them once they have settled deep into the pile.

Step 3 – How to join artificial grass (if needed)

Place both surfaces together, ensuring the pile runs in the same direction. Fold back approximately 20-30mm (12 in) on each side along the length of the join and trim approx 20-30mm from each edge, cutting between tufts.

Unroll the join tape down the length of the join, ensuring it is central to both parts. Apply the PermaLawn adhesive to the tape, then roll one side of the turf onto the joint strip and the adhesive, matching the two surfaces together and repeat on the other side. Leave for two to three hours for the adhesive to set.

Top tips

• We recommend going over your new lawn with a stiff broom once it is fitted to ensure the turf is looking its best
• When working on the joins, use lengths of timber or similar to weigh the joint down to get the best bond
• Visit the PermaLawn resource library to download the full installation guide

Looking after your artificial grass

Keep your new grass looking in peak condition with these tips:

• Regularly remove leaves and debris
• Avoid using barbecues and other heat sources directly on the grass
• Apply weedkiller
• Regularly brushing against the grain to prevent matting and keep the fibres straight
• Remove marks with hot soapy water
• Always remove pet waste
• Spread the load of garden furniture

Our artificial grass range

We stock a wide range of artificial grass matting for different types of projects. All are suitable for DIY installation and we offer a selection of adhesives and accessories to help you get the job done.

We have artificial grasses ranging in pile height, including our 13mm St Andrews range, a natural-looking grass with a lush and soft texture that has been specifically designed for use as a golf putting green.

Our 35mm Birchwood grass is ideal for high traffic areas such as schools and exhibitions, while the plush and full-bodied 38mm Underwood is a great luxury option.

We have the capacity to handle your requirements with our 11 different styles of artificial grass, with the high-quality essential accessories you’ll need to install correctly.

Our PermaLawn team can also discuss more than 50 other options of grass we can access. And we have a large installer network that can quote for your installation if DIY isn’t your thing. Give the team a call today on 01773 441950 and let’s get started.

PermaGroup has established links with some of the biggest names in our industry thanks to our reputation of excellence. Contact us to find out more about becoming a supplier or stockist of any of our products range.