Are you the type of homeowner who prefers doing it yourself?
We meet a lot of homeowners who prefer to install their new artificial grass on their own, so we put together a guide covering some of the essential artificial turf installation tools you’ll need before you start installing your turf.
In most cases, these tools are specially designed for turf installation and help ensure your turf is installed to last for years to come.
Once you have these tools ready, take a look at our artificial grass installation guide for an overview of the necessary steps.
Let’s take a look.
Artificial Turf Installation Tools
As a handy homeowner, there’s a good chance you already have some of these tools.
However, there are quite a few that you may need to purchase before you start your project. We recommend you purchase tools and accessories specifically designed for artificial turf, as they will ensure proper installation.
Using the right tools may mean the difference between turf that constantly needs repair and turf that lasts for a decade.
1. Tape Measure
Let’s start with the basics.
You’ll need a simple tape measure to measure the area on which you plan to install your artificial turf.
We recommend adding 12 to 24 inches to your measurements as a way to ensure you have enough turf to work with during your installation. It’s a lot easier to trim turf to your desired dimensions than it is adding turf.
2. Shovel
If you’re installing artificial turf on a foundation of dirt, we recommend keeping a shovel nearby.
You will need to clear your area of rocks, branches, and other debris that may impact the surface area of your turf. Be sure you clear the area of anything that sticks out of the foundation and replace the dirt as needed.
3. Pick
Having a sturdy pick available is great for removing larger rocks and tree stumps.
You may already have one of these in your shed, but if you don’t you can find a variety of picks at your local hardware store.
4. Tamper Tool
Once your area is clear of debris, you should use a tamper to pack the dirt into a firm foundation.
This is a critical step in the artificial turf installation process, as it ensures your foundation is balanced and ready.
You can use a handheld tamper tool or a power-tool if you have one.
5. Gloves
Whenever you work with rough materials and blades, it’s important to protect your hands.
For this, we recommend a pair of high-quality gloves for outdoor work.
Based on our experience, gloves are the key to avoiding injury and keeping your project on schedule. You can find a variety of gloves at your local hardware store.
6. Cutting Tool
We recommend using a solid box cutter and a razor blade.
While some may prefer to use a different type of blade, like a utility knife, we recommend sticking to razor blades depending on how much turf you plan to cut. If you’re trimming large areas of turf, you may find that your blade dulls quickly due to the material.
Because razor blades are replaceable, you don’t have to worry about dulling your blade and delaying your project.
7. Turf Infill
This is more of a material than a tool.
Turf infill is applied directly to the turf once installed as a way to create bounce.
This is particularly important for playground installations, as the infill helps prevent injury from spills and tumbles.
It’s a good idea to order more than you need so you have extra to apply throughout the years.
8. Turf Nails
Turf nails are designed to keep your turf in place.
They’re also designed to connect two pieces of turf together, thereby creating a seamless appearance. You should ask your provider for instructions regarding how many nails you need before starting.
As with infill, it doesn’t hurt to order a few to keep on hand throughout the years.
You may find it handy should a portion of your turn need additional support.
9. Hammer
It wouldn’t make much sense to have nails without a hammer, would it?
If possible, try to pick up a hammer with a longer handle, as you will need the leverage to hammer in longer turf nails.
10. Seam Tape
If you’re covering a larger area with artificial lawn, then you’re going to need seam tape.
This will help hold down two pieces of turf that are laid
This will help hold down two pieces of turf that are laid next to each other. With a good seam tape, you’ll never be able to see the joins.
11. Turf Glue
Use turf glue to fix down turf to a surface.
It’s a great way to affix turf to a patio where you’re looking to create a more natural looking balcony or patio surface.
It’s a great way to affix turf to a patio where you’re looking to create a more natural looking balcony or patio surface. Use glue to apply turf directly to concrete in patio or balacony areas, where you may not be able to fix the turf in place using nails.
12. Push Broom
A good brush will be the last tool that you need in order to get the lawn looking natural. Use the brush to brush up the blades of grass, especially across the seams. This will make the grass look fresh and natural, finishing off your yard’s new look.
This is also used to brush infill into the turf.
Keep this on hand and brush your lawn as needed to ensure your turf looks uniform throughout the years.
Conclusion
Once you have these artificial turf installation tools, you’ll be ready to start your project.
You can find many of these from your artificial grass provider as well as your local hardware store. Be sure to ask your provider for instructions regarding the materials you need. Product specialists will be able to assist you as you prepare your project.
Let us know if you have any questions.
