How We Install Artificial Turf
A Step-by-Step Guide from Just Grass NZ
Thinking about artificial turf but not sure what’s involved?
Whether you're planning to turf a muddy backyard, a hard-to-mow slope, or a high-traffic commercial area, understanding how it's installed can help you make a confident, informed decision.
At Just Grass NZ, we’ve spent years perfecting our turf installation process to suit the unique demands of the Wellington region—including tricky access, drainage challenges, and weather variations. This blog takes you behind the scenes of a typical artificial turf install so you know what to expect—from day one to final brush.
🛠️ Step 1: Site Assessment & Design
Every successful install starts with a proper plan.
We visit your site to assess:
Access (can we get machinery in?)
Drainage conditions
Ground slope and levels
Intended use (pets, play, foot traffic, etc.)
Measure the dimensions of the area to the millimeter
From there, we design a turf layout that fits your space and goals—whether it’s a clean rectangle for backyard lounging or a contoured play space with curves and borders.
🧹 Step 2: Excavation & Base Preparation
We dig out your existing surface to a depth of 70–100mm, depending on site conditions. This gives us room to build a compacted, stable base beneath the turf.
Here's how we do it:
Excavate to depth using diggers or hand tools
Lay geotextile cloth across the area to prevent weeds and keep the base layers stable
Install timber edging (H4 treated pine) to frame and secure the perimeter
Compact GAP 20 aggregate in 2–3 layers, with water to aid density
Screed and compact paving sand as a top layer for smooth levelling
🧱 This multi-layer base ensures your turf won’t sink, shift, or trap water underneath.
🧵 Step 3: Turf Laying & Joining
Once the base is level and firm, we roll out your chosen turf.
What happens next:
Trim factory edges for a seamless look
Align turf rolls so fibres run in the same direction (toward the best viewing angles)
Glue joins using commercial seam tape and adhesive
Fix turf to perimeter edging using galvanised staples
Shape turf around trees, paths, or garden beds as needed
This is where our detail obsession shines—clean joins, invisible seams, and a tailored finish.
🌾 Step 4: Sand Infill & Grooming
To hold everything in place and support the turf blades, we apply a layer of kiln-dried silica sand.
Our process:
Spread evenly at 10kg per m² for residential lawns
For schools or sports turf, we increase to 15kg per m²
Double broom the sand into the fibres using a power broom for even distribution and deep bedding
Finish with a light water spray to help it settle
This helps the grass blades stand upright and protects the turf from UV damage and wear.
🧼 Step 5: Final Clean-Up & Handover
Once the turf is in, we:
Groom the entire area for a neat, plush finish
Bag and remove excess materials
Dispose of turf offcuts and base layer waste responsibly
Do a final quality inspection of the install
Walk you through turf care basics and provide a digital maintenance guide
And that’s it—your new turf is ready to enjoy!
⏱️ How Long Does It Take?
Most artificial turf installations are completed in 2–5 days, depending on:
Size of the area
Access and ground conditions
Features like curved edges, multiple zones, or contouring
We’ll confirm timing in your quote so you know exactly what to expect.
🧾 What’s Included in Our Installations?
✅ Turf supply
✅ Base prep and materials
✅ Edging timber
✅ Join and glue materials
✅ Infill sand
✅ Labour, clean-up and handover
✅ 12-month workmanship warranty
✅ 8-year product warranty
🌏 Eco-Conscious Turfing
We care about reducing waste. That’s why we:
Recycle turf offcuts and infill material where possible
Use suppliers who offer lead-free, heavy-metal-free turf
Avoid harsh chemicals and solvents on-site
Just Grass NZ is committed to building sustainable lawns that last.
📍 Service Area
We install artificial turf across the Greater Wellington region, including:
Wellington City & Suburbs
Hutt Valley
Porirua
Kapiti Coast
👋 Ready for a Free Quote?
📞 0800 MY LAWN
📧 info@justgrassnz.com
👉 Use our web enquiry form →
