ProGreen is here to guide you through the process of installing artificial turf for your beloved dogs. Creating a perfectly manicured backyard is a delightful way to spoil your pets. The benefits of artificial turf are endless, and at ProGreen, our turf experts want to share the complete process of installing pet-friendly turf for your new backyard.
Before we dive into the steps, it’s crucial to choose the best turf for your furry friend. Consider our pet-specific products like K9 Deluxe, K9 Champion, and K9 Terra. These turfs offer maximum durability and excellent drainage. Concerned about odor from urine and fecal matter? Don’t worry! Our patented ProFlow backing technology ensures superior drainage, directing the waste through the turf. Just remember to spray down your turf occasionally to keep it fresh.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
To begin the installation, gather the following tools and materials:
- Tape Measurer & Yard Stakes
- Shovels & Heavy-Duty Metal Rake
- Tamping Tool (hand or gas-powered)
- Straight edge knife, heavy-duty scissors, or power cutters
- Gravel and crushed fines (sub-turf base layer)
- Perimeter Board or Timbers
- Infill (sand, silica sand, crumb rubber, etc.)
- Seam Tape and Glue
- Infill Broadcaster/Spreader
- Carpet Stretching Tool
Step 1: Measure Your Project Area
Using a tape measure and yard stakes, clearly map out the area for your artificial turf installation. Determine the number of turf rolls you’ll need to purchase and cut them to your desired length. Planning your roll layout is essential.
Step 2: Create Your Project Blueprint
Now that you’ve outlined your project area, input the measurements into a free online CAD tool or hand-draw the area on graphing paper. Making a blueprint will help you organize and layout your project effectively.
Step 3: Demolition / Removal of Existing Grass
It’s time to get your hands dirty! Clear out the existing grass, dirt, sod, or any unwanted material. This step requires some labor, so consider having a truck or wheelbarrow nearby. Enlist the help of friends or family members to speed up the process. Remember to clear or re-route any sprinkler lines or roots in the area to avoid future issues.
Step 4: Installing the Base
With the area clear and level, start unloading gravel as the base layer. Aim for 3-5 inches of gravel across the entire turf installation area. It’s crucial to slope the base layer away from your home to ensure proper water drainage. Smoothen the base layer by adding crushed fines, which fill the gaps between gravel, creating a flat surface for securing the turf.
Step 5: Laying Out and Securing Turf
Roll out the turf on top of the prepared base area without disturbing the crushed fines. Avoid creating indentations that may be noticeable later. Cut the turf seams and glue them together. Now, stretch and secure the turf tightly onto the base layer using nails. Ensure the nails are firmly driven into the turf and base for a secure and hazard-free installation.
Step 6: Adding the Infill
We’re almost there! One of the final steps is adding infill to the turf. Infill adds weight and stability to the turf, preventing it from shifting. For pet-friendly installations, sand or silica sand infill is ideal. Spread the infill evenly using a seed broadcaster to avoid any lumpy areas.
Step 7: Fetch!
It’s time to let your dog out to enjoy their new backyard! Congratulations, you’ve successfully created a pet-friendly, beautiful retreat for your furry friend. No more muddy paws or overgrown weeds to deal with. Celebrate this accomplishment and cherish the joy it brings to your best friend’s life.
If you feel overwhelmed at any point during the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to our ProGreen Turf Experts. They are ready to provide guidance or offer a Free Quote for an artificial turf installation tailored to your dogs’ needs.
Now, go and create a dream backyard for your beloved pets!