Dreaming of a lush, green lawn that stays perfect year-round? Follow our 12-step guide to installing artificial grass and enjoy a yard that looks professionally landscaped and lasts for decades. With the right preparation and installation techniques, your new lawn will drain properly, resist wear and tear, and stay vibrant in Oregon's climate. Our detailed instructions, helpful videos, and recommended tools will guide you through every stage of the process.
Remove 3-4 inches of existing sod and soil.
Cap or remove sprinklers and set a rough grade for drainage.
Add 2-2½ inches of drain rock, hose down, then compact to 90% with a vibrating plate compactor.
Add 1-1½ inches of Class II road base or decomposed granite.
Optional: Install a weed barrier fabric if weeds are a concern.
Hose down and compact again to 90%.
Ensure the surface is level and smooth with a slight grade for optimal drainage.
Acclimate the turf by rolling it out in the sun (blades facing down) for 1-2 hours.
Lay the turf over the base and trim to fit using a carpet knife.
Secure the turf with 5-6 inch nails, spacing them 3-4 inches apart along edges and 12-24 inches throughout the center.
Use EasySeam machine and seaming tape to join sections.
Place 6"x1"x6" staples every 4 inches along the seam.
Ensure seams are tight, with the grain facing the same direction.
Power broom the turf before infilling.
Apply infill using a drop spreader, then rake or broom it into the base.
Important: Never use regular sand as infill.
Power broom again to stand blades upright.
Trim excess blades with carpet scissors.
Clean the area with a blower or broom.
If your area has gopher or mole issues, consider installing a wire mesh barrier below the base layers to protect your lawn. While not always necessary, it can prevent critters from damaging your turf investment.
Let turf acclimate in the sun before installing.
Always stretch turf taut.
Always run the turf's grain in the same direction.
Install perimeter bender board for neat edges.
Use only manufacturer-recommended infill.
Melting: Reflective windows can act like magnifying glasses. Use window coatings to prevent heat damage.
Weather: Proper drainage ensures no flooding even with rain or snow.
Pets: Use ZeoFill to neutralize pet odors.
Want to see these steps in action? Check out our four installation videos for detailed demonstrations of each phase. With GST Oregon's expert guidance and high-quality products, your new lawn will look spectacular for years to come!
