Installing artificial grass on soil involves more than rolling out the turf. Proper ground preparation is essential for a stable, even surface and effective drainage.
This step-by-step guide explains how to prepare the ground, build a suitable sub-base, and lay, join, and secure the turf for a neat, durable finish.
Can You Lay Artificial Grass Directly on Soil?
Laying artificial grass directly on loose soil or existing grass is not recommended for a durable installation. The ground may settle or shift over time, leading to uneven surfaces and drainage problems. Existing vegetation can also decay beneath the turf, while weeds may grow through the installation.
For better results, remove the existing lawn, roots, and other loose organic material, then prepare a suitable, compacted sub-base. If the soil is heavy clay, poorly drained, or prone to waterlogging, address these conditions before installing the turf.
Tools and Materials for Laying Artificial Grass on Soil
Gather the necessary tools and materials before starting. The exact requirements depend on the size of your lawn, the condition of the ground, and the type of artificial grass you choose.
Tools and equipment
- Shovel or spade for removing soil and vegetation
- Sod cutter for larger areas, if needed
- Wheelbarrow for moving soil and aggregate
- Landscape rake and straightedge for grading and leveling
- Plate compactor or hand tamper for compacting the sub-base
- Measuring tape, string, or chalk for marking the area
- Sharp utility knife with spare blades for cutting turf
- Hammer or mallet for installing suitable landscape pins
- Stiff-bristle broom or power brush for grooming the turf
- Work gloves and appropriate protective equipment
Materials and supplies
- Artificial grass rolls
- Compacted crushed aggregate or a suitable road-base material
- Fine aggregate or other compatible leveling material, if required
- Permeable weed control membrane, if needed
- Turf joining tape and compatible adhesive, if multiple pieces need joining
- Landscape pins, galvanized nails, or other suitable turf fixings
- Edging materials, such as timber, metal, or plastic edging, if needed
- Turf-specific infill, if required by the product
Note: A plate compactor and sod cutter can often be rented from local equipment rental centers or home improvement stores.
Step-by-Step: How to Lay Artificial Grass on Soil
Follow these steps to prepare the ground, install the turf, and achieve a neat, stable finish.
Step 1: Plan and Measure the Installation Area
Measure the length and width of the area and sketch its boundaries, including curves, trees, flower beds, paths, and other obstacles. Calculate how much turf and base material you will need, allowing extra turf for trimming and fitting.
If you are installing multiple rolls, plan their positions to minimize seams. Also, check the finished height against nearby paths, patios, doors, and edging.
Before digging, check for underground utilities, irrigation lines, and other buried services. Assess how rainwater moves across the site and plan a suitable drainage route, particularly near buildings.
Step 2: Excavate and Clear the Site
Remove the existing lawn, roots, weeds, and loose organic material using a sod cutter or spade. Excavate to accommodate the planned sub-base, leveling layer, and turf while keeping the finished surface aligned with nearby paths and edging.
The required depth depends on the soil conditions and installation design. Remove rocks and debris, and address any soft or unstable ground before building the base.
Step 3: Grade and Compact the Ground
Use a rake to level the exposed soil and smooth out high spots and shallow depressions. If the site has drainage problems, address them before proceeding.
Compact the ground with a hand tamper or suitable compaction equipment to create a firm, stable foundation for the aggregate sub-base.
Step 4: Install Edging, If Needed
Edging helps define the lawn’s boundaries, hold the turf edges in place, and create a neat finish where artificial grass meets garden beds, paths, or other surfaces. Common options include timber, metal edging strips, and concrete kerbs.
Install the edging according to the site layout and manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring it is secure and its height is compatible with the finished turf level and adjacent surfaces.
Step 5: Install a Weed Control Membrane, If Needed
Depending on the soil conditions and installation design, a permeable weed control membrane may help suppress weeds and separate the soil from the aggregate sub-base.
If needed, lay the membrane over the prepared ground, overlapping seams by 4 inches (100 mm).
Step 6: Build and Compact the Sub-Base
The sub-base supports the artificial grass, distributes loads, and helps with drainage.
For many residential lawns, a compacted crushed aggregate layer of around 2–3 inches (50–75 mm) may be suitable. Areas with poor drainage, unstable soil, or heavier use may require 3–4 inches (75–100 mm), depending on site conditions.
Spread the aggregate evenly and compact it thoroughly. For deeper installations, work in layers, compacting each one before adding the next. Check for low spots or uneven areas and correct them before proceeding.
Where needed, maintain a suitable slope toward a drainage outlet and direct runoff away from buildings.
For more guidance, see our article on choosing the best sub-base for artificial grass.
Step 7: Create a Smooth Levelling Layer
If needed, spread a thin layer of granite fines or suitable sharp sand, around ⅜–½ inch (10–15 mm) deep, over the compacted sub-base. Use a rake and straightedge to create a smooth, even surface, filling shallow depressions and removing ridges.
Compact the layer as appropriate for the material and installation design. Avoid leaving loose material that could shift beneath the turf.
Step 8: Roll Out and Position the Artificial Grass
Unroll the artificial grass over the prepared base and let it relax before installation. In warm, sunny weather, laying it out in the sun can help reduce creases and make positioning easier.
If using multiple rolls, ensure all grass fibers face the same direction before trimming or joining the pieces. Arrange the turf to minimize visible seams and unnecessary offcuts.
Make preliminary cuts around the edges, leaving enough material for final trimming. Use a sharp utility knife and cut from the backing side to avoid damaging the fibers.
Step 9: Join the Turf Seams
Trim off the factory edge strips so the adjoining turf edges align neatly. Fold back the edges along the seam and position the joining tape underneath.
Apply compatible adhesive to standard joining tape according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or use self-adhesive tape as directed. Press the turf edges firmly onto the tape, keeping grass fibers out of the joint. Walk along the seam a few times to press it firmly into place. Where recommended, secure the seam with U-shaped nails spaced 6–12 inches (150–300 mm) apart.
Step 10: Trim and Secure the Edges
Trim excess turf around the perimeter, corners, trees, and other obstacles. Cut from the backing side with a sharp knife, working in small increments around curves for a neat fit.
Smooth out wrinkles and secure the edges with suitable landscape pins or other recommended fixings, typically spaced 8–12 inches (200–300 mm) apart. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance on fixing type and spacing, keeping fixings flush with the backing and grass fibers clear of their heads. For more detailed guidance on fixing methods for different surfaces, see our guide to how to secure artificial grass properly.
For more detailed cutting techniques, see our guide to cutting artificial grass.
Step 11: Brush the Turf and Add Infill, If Required
Use a stiff-bristle broom or power brush to lift the grass fibers, brushing against the pile direction.
If the product requires infill, spread the recommended material evenly. Washed silica sand is commonly used for residential artificial turf, while some products require specialized infill or none at all. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the material and application rate.
Brush again to work the infill into the fibers and distribute it evenly. Lightly hose the surface to help settle the infill, check drainage, and remove dust.
Step 12: Inspect the Installation and Allow It to Set
Check that the turf lies flat, the seams and edges are secure, and the infill is evenly distributed. Make sure there are no visible wrinkles or uneven areas.
Allow the turf to settle and the adhesive to cure fully before walking on it or placing furniture on the surface. This may take 24–48 hours, depending on the adhesive and product instructions.
How to Maintain Artificial Grass After Installation
Artificial grass is relatively easy to maintain, but a simple care routine helps preserve its appearance and performance.
- Regular brushing: Brush the turf periodically to lift flattened fibers and reduce matting.
- Remove debris: Use a leaf blower, plastic rake, or turf brush to clear leaves, twigs, and litter.
- Rinse occasionally: Hose down the turf as needed—typically once a week or after heavy use—to remove dust, pollen, spills, and keep the surface clean and fresh.
- Clean up pet waste: Remove solid waste promptly and rinse pet-use areas regularly with water.
- Refill infill: If your turf uses infill, check periodically for uneven distribution or loss. Top up with the recommended material when necessary.
- Inspect edges and seams: Check for lifting edges, loose fixings, or separating seams, and secure them promptly.
For more detailed cleaning advice, see our guide to cleaning artificial grass.
FAQs About Laying Artificial Grass on Soil
How Deep Should I Dig for Artificial Grass?
For many residential installations, an excavation depth of around 75–100 mm (3–4 inches) is a common starting point. The required depth depends on the compacted sub-base, any leveling layer, and the finished height relative to surrounding surfaces. Poor drainage or unstable soil may require a deeper base.
What Should I Put Under Artificial Grass on Soil?
A permeable weed-control membrane is generally recommended over the prepared soil to help limit weed growth. A compacted crushed-aggregate sub-base is then installed to provide stability and support drainage. A thin leveling layer may be added above the sub-base to create a smooth surface beneath the turf.
Do I Need Underlay for Artificial Grass on Soil?
A separate underlay is usually unnecessary for residential lawns when the turf is installed over a properly prepared, stable sub-base. A compatible shock pad may be useful in play areas where extra cushioning is needed, but it does not replace the sub-base.
Can I Install Artificial Grass Over Existing Natural Grass?
No, installing artificial grass directly over natural grass is not recommended. The existing grass and roots can decompose, while the ground may settle unevenly, leading to an uneven surface and drainage problems. Remove the existing vegetation and prepare a stable base before installation.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Lay Artificial Grass?
Installing artificial grass yourself can reduce labor costs, especially in small, relatively level areas. Renting tools where available and planning cuts carefully can also help reduce expenses. However, skipping proper ground preparation can lead to unevenness and costly repairs.
For more cost-saving tips, see our guide to The Cheapest Way to Lay Artificial Grass.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
| Factor | DIY Installation | Professional Installation |
| Cost | Lower labor costs, but materials and tool rentals still apply | Higher overall cost; check what is included in the quote |
| Time and effort | Requires planning, ground preparation, and hands-on work | Less hands-on work for the homeowner |
| Tools and skills | You need suitable tools and the skills to prepare the base, cut, and join the turf | Installers bring the necessary tools and installation experience |
| Finish quality | Can look neat with careful preparation and accurate fitting | Experienced installers may achieve a more consistent finish, especially on complex layouts |
| Best for | Small, relatively level yards and confident DIYers | Large or irregular areas, challenging ground conditions, or homeowners with limited time |
DIY installation can work well for small, straightforward gardens. For larger or more complex areas, or sites with drainage and ground-stability issues, professional installation may be worth considering.
Final Thoughts
A successful artificial grass installation on soil depends on proper ground preparation and careful installation. By following the steps in this guide, you can create a smooth, stable lawn that looks great and stands up to everyday use.
Whether you’re upgrading a family garden, creating a pet-friendly lawn, or refreshing an outdoor living area, taking the time to install artificial grass properly can help you enjoy a green, attractive outdoor space with less routine maintenance.
