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How to Install Turf in Backyard: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

June 24, 2025

Do you dream of having a green backyard that looks great every day, without mowing or watering? Installing synthetic turf might be the perfect solution. It’s soft, green all year, easy to take care of, and great for kids and pets.

The best part? You can install it yourself with a little time and patience.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to install turf in backyard step by step. Whether you’re doing it on your own or just want to understand the process before hiring a pro, this guide is here to help.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before we jump into the steps, let’s make sure you have all the tools and materials ready. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Tools:

  • Shovel or sod cutter
  • Rake
  • Wheelbarrow
  • Measuring tape
  • Utility knife
  • Hammer or mallet
  • Turf cutter (optional)
  • Broom or stiff brush

Materials:

  • Synthetic turf
  • Weed barrier fabric
  • Turf glue or turf tape
  • Turf nails or landscape staples
  • Gravel or crushed rock (base material)
  • Sand or infill (for weight and softness)
  • Turf seaming tape (for joining two pieces)

Now that you’ve got everything, let’s move on to the actual steps.

Step 1: Measure the Area

Start by measuring your backyard where you want to install the turf.

Use a measuring tape to find the length and width of the space. Multiply them to find the total square feet.

Buy a little more turf than you need, just in case you make a mistake or need to fill in a small area later. It’s better to have extra than not enough!

Step 2: Remove the Existing Grass

You need to get rid of all the old grass and weeds.

Use a shovel or a sod cutter to remove everything down to about 3–4 inches deep. This will help you make a solid base for the turf.

Make sure to take out roots, stones, and anything that might poke through the turf later. You want the area to be smooth and clean.

Step 3: Create a Solid Base

Now it’s time to build a base. This helps water drain properly and keeps the turf from sinking.

Fill the area with gravel, crushed stone, or decomposed granite about 3 inches deep.

Use a rake to spread it evenly, and then use a tamper or plate compactor to press it down flat. The base should be smooth and firm.

A good base is very important—it helps your turf last longer and feel better under your feet.

Step 4: Lay Down a Weed Barrier (optional)

Once the base is ready, roll out a weed barrier fabric on top of it. This stops weeds from growing through your turf.

Cut the fabric to fit the area and overlap the edges by a few inches. Secure it in place with landscape staples.

This step might seem small, but it saves a lot of trouble later!

Step 5: Roll Out the Turf

Now comes the fun part—rolling out your synthetic turf!

Lay the turf over the area and let it sit in the sun for about an hour. This helps it relax and lay flat.

Make sure the blades of the turf are all pointing the same way. This makes the yard look natural and even. If you have to use more than one roll, place the pieces side by side and make sure the seams line up smoothly.

Step 6: Cut and Fit the Turf

Use a utility knife to carefully trim the edges of the turf to fit your yard shape. Go slow and take your time—neat edges look much better.

If you’re joining two pieces, place turf seaming tape underneath the edges and apply glue. Press the pieces together firmly. Don’t overlap the edges!

Once it’s trimmed and joined, check that everything looks even.

Step 7: Secure the Turf

Now it’s time to fasten the turf to the ground. Use turf nails or landscape staples to pin it down along the edges and every 12–18 inches in the center.

Start from one side and work your way across. This keeps the turf from shifting or forming wrinkles.

Make sure you press the edges firmly into the ground so they don’t lift over time.

Other Important Article- https://www.northtxturf.com/why-choosing-the-right-artificial-turf-for-your-residential-lawn-is-necessary/

Step 8: Add Infill

Infill is the material that goes on top of the turf to help it stay in place and feel soft. You can use sand, rubber, or a mix of both.

Use a spreader to evenly apply the infill across the turf. Then, use a broom or stiff brush to sweep the turf blades upright.

This helps spread the infill and makes the turf look more natural.Infill also helps your turf stay cool and last longer, so don’t skip this step.

Step 9: Final Touches

Walk around your new lawn and check everything. Brush the turf in different directions to fluff it up and make it look even.

If you see any loose edges, press them down or add more nails. Clean up any extra material and step back to admire your work!

Caring for Your Turf

Once your turf is installed, it’s super easy to take care of. Just follow these simple tips:

  • Use a leaf blower or broom to clear leaves and debris.
  • Rinse it with water once in a while to keep it clean.
  • Brush the blades with a broom to keep them standing tall.
  • Pick up pet waste and rinse the area with water.

No mowing. No watering. No fertilizers. Just a green lawn all year long!

Final Thoughts

Installing turf in your backyard is a great way to save time and money while enjoying a beautiful outdoor space. It may take a weekend of work, but the results are worth it.

You’ll love walking on soft, green grass that never turns brown. Your kids will have a safe place to play. Your pets will enjoy it. And best of all, you won’t have to do any yard work.

So, whether you want to go full DIY or call in the pros, now you know exactly how to install turf in backyard step by step.

Happy turfing!