The short answer
A proper install removes the old grass and soil, builds a compacted base that drains, secures the edges, lays a weed barrier, then cuts, seams and secures the turf before brushing in infill. Most turf failures come from a weak base or loose edges, not from the turf itself.
1. Dig out the old lawn
Grass, roots and loose soil come out so the new base sits on firm ground. Leaving organic material underneath is what causes dips later, as it breaks down.
2. Build and compact the base
Screening sand goes in and is compacted in layers, firm enough to hold its shape but still free-draining, and graded so water moves through and away from the house. Poor compaction is the most common reason turf develops low spots: water washes the loose base out and the turf sinks into divots.
3. Secure the edges
This is where installs differ most. The common shortcut is to pin turf down with 6-inch steel spikes driven through the lawn. We outline the area with 6-inch metal or plastic edging and pour a 3 x 3 x 3 inch concrete border along the inside of it, so the turf has something solid to be glued to.
4. Lay the weed barrier
A weed barrier covers the entire area so nothing grows up through the turf and pushes or pierces it.
5. Cut, seam and glue
Turf comes in rolls about 15 feet wide, so larger yards need seams. Cuts are planned so seams run the same direction and sit where they're least visible, then joined with seam tape. The perimeter is glued to the concrete border with turf glue that carries a 15-year warranty.
6. Infill and brush
Infill, usually silica sand or a coated sand made for pets, is spread in thin passes and brushed in so the blades stand up and the turf stays weighted and stable. The turf is brushed against the grain, with synthetic bristles only, never wire.
How long it takes
For a typical residential yard, plan on about two days for every 1,000 square feet. Access, demolition and the shape of the yard can change that.
Sources
- AJ Turf install method (concrete border, weed barrier, compaction)
- Manufacturer infill installation guidelines (passes, brushing)
- Manufacturer landscape care guide (synthetic bristles only)
Updated 2026-10-09
