The Ultimate DIY Guide to Installing Artificial Grass

Published on 12 January 2026 by Syngrass

Installing artificial grass is a practical DIY project if you prepare the base properly and take your time with joins. The steps below apply to most residential gardens in South Africa (and they’re the same principles professional installers follow).

Before you start: tools & materials

• Tools: shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, tamper or plate compactor, measuring tape, utility knife, straight edge.
• Base: crushed stone/road base + a levelling layer of compactable sand/stone dust.
• Barrier: a permeable weed membrane/geotextile.
• Joining: seaming tape and suitable adhesive.
• Fixing: galvanised nails/U-pins, and edging if needed.
• Finishing: stiff broom/power brush; optional silica sand infill depending on the turf type and use.

Step 1: Ground preparation (base & drainage)

The key to a great-looking artificial lawn is a stable, well-draining base. Remove existing grass and weeds, excavate to the required depth, and ensure water will drain away from buildings (a slight fall is ideal). Compact your sub-base, then add and compact your crushed stone/road base in layers.

Step 2: Weed membrane & levelling

Lay a weed membrane over the compacted base and overlap joints. Add a thin levelling layer (sand/stone dust), then screed and compact to get a smooth, even surface. Take your time here: most visible bumps come from rushed base work.

Step 3: Lay the turf (pile direction matters)

Roll out your artificial grass and let it relax so wrinkles settle. If you’re using multiple cuts, make sure the pile direction is consistent across all pieces (this is one of the biggest differences between “DIY-looking” and professional installs).

Step 4: Seaming, edging & securing

Use quality seaming tape and adhesive for joins. Align the turf so fibres don’t get trapped in the seam, then apply pressure while curing. Secure edges with galvanised nails/U-pins and finish edges neatly against paving, kerbs or garden borders.

Step 5: Infill (if required) and final brush

Some turf systems use silica sand infill for added weight and fibre support. If your product requires it, apply infill evenly and brush it in with a stiff broom to lift the pile. Finish with a final brush against the pile for a clean, upright look.

Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping proper base compaction (leads to bumps and poor drainage).
• Seaming against the pile direction (joins become visible).
• Not fixing edges securely (can lift or curl over time).
• Choosing the wrong pile height for heavy-traffic areas.

Need Help Choosing Turf or Quantities?

Browse our artificial grass products, request a free sample, or contact Syngrass for advice and pricing in South Africa.

Conclusion: a clean base + correct joins = a lawn that lasts

If you focus on the base (compaction, levelling and drainage) and take care with pile direction and seaming, you’ll get an artificial lawn that looks natural and performs well for years. When in doubt, ask for advice before you cut or glue—fixing mistakes later is always harder.

For product advice, browse our artificial grass range, request a free sample, or contact Syngrass for recommendations and pricing in South Africa.