Looking to give your garden/property a low-maintenance upgrade? Artificial grass does exactly that. But knowing how to lay artificial grass is a different story.
Whether you're covering soil, concrete, or old paving, the right installation will make all the difference, and then you can begin to think about how to clean it and maintain for years to come.
We’ll walk you through how to lay artificial grass on different surfaces, how to keep it looking its best, and what to expect in terms of cost.
Laying Your Artificial Grass
How to Lay Artificial Grass on Soil
If you’re working with soil, your first step is to dig out any existing turf. Aim to go down about 75mm, this gives you the depth needed for proper drainage and a smooth finish.
Once cleared, put in some treated timber edging around the perimeter. It makes securing the grass much easier later on.
Before laying anything else, roll out a weed membrane to stop any unwanted growth from poking through your new grass.
Next, the sub-base. Spread around 50mm of MOT Type 1 or granite chippings (go with granite if drainage is a concern), then compact it well. On top of that, add 25mm of granite dust to create a level surface. A second weed membrane can go on top if you like especially helpful for extra weed control or protecting the underside of your grass.
Then, unroll your artificial grass and let it settle in the sun (if any) for a few hours, this helps relax any creases. Trim the edges to size using a sharp utility knife and secure the perimeter with galvanised nails or U-pins.
If you’re joining two rolls, take your time with the adhesive and joining tape to get a clean seam. Eventually you can then brush in a layer of kiln-dried sand to help weigh everything down and keep the fibres standing tall.
How to Lay Artificial Grass on Concrete
If you’ve got a tired patio or a patch of concrete that’s seen better days, artificial grass can give it a fresh new look without too much hassle. Start by checking the condition of the surface small cracks can usually be sorted with a self-levelling compound, but if bits are crumbling away, it’s better to replace them first with a proper concrete mix.
For drainage, hose down the area and see if any puddles form. If they do, drill a few 16mm holes in those spots and fill them with shingle to stop water pooling under your lawn.
Before you roll out the grass, it’s a good idea to lay a foam underlay. This helps mask any imperfections in the concrete and gives you a softer feel underfoot, especially important if kids will be playing on it.
Secure the underlay with adhesive, then roll out your grass and let it rest for a bit.
Trim it to shape, join any seams using adhesive and tape, and glue the perimeter down. To finish, add some kiln-dried sand and give it a good brush.
How Much is Artificial Grass?
The cost of artificial grass depends on the quality, pile height, and overall realism of the turf. Prices generally fall into three tiers:
Budget artificial grass typically ranges from £9 to £14 per m². Typically best for quick makeovers or low-footfall areas, though it may lack the natural look and feel of higher-end options.
Mid-range turf falls between £14 and £24 per m². Mid range is typically a middle ground. There is usually a varied blade texture and colour.
Premium artificial grass can cost anywhere from £25 to £45 per m². These are tpyiclaly very feature lush, have dense fibres, are highly realistic and perfect for domestic gardens.
If you're having it installed, expect to pay between £45 to £80 per m². This includes labour, sub-base preparation, and fitting. DIY installation can significantly reduce costs, particularly if you're laying grass over a solid, existing surface like concrete. Just ensure you’re confident and ready to take on the task.
Keep in mind that additional materials will impact the total price. Adhesives, joining tape, and U-pins may all be needed depending on your chosen method.
How to Clean & Maintain Artificial Grass
Now it’s installed, how do you clean and maintain artificial grass? It’s easy to look after but still needs occasional care.
Clear leaves and debris with a broom or plastic rake. Hose it down to remove dust and dirt, and brush against the pile direction to lift flattened fibres.
For pet owners, you may want to use a scented spray to keep the area fresh. Clean spills promptly using a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid sharp tools and harsh chemicals to prevent damaging the turf.
Regular brushing, especially in high-traffic areas, will keep the grass looking natural. A solid leaf blower and artificial grass cleaner can go a long way in the cleaning process.
Where To Get Artificial Grass
At The Builders Supply Company, we stock a wide range of artificial grass ideal for gardens, patios, play areas and more. We also carry all the installation essentials including tape, glue and fixings.
Not to mention our wide range of landscaping and gardening supplies to help with any other tasks you have around the garden.