Illustrations and Visualization Now to illustrate your estimate and calculations with drawings of the job site. These drawings should be to scale and as accurate as possible, seeing as they will be used as references when quoting and planning the job – such as indicating the placement of a perimeter product, seams, and the grain of the turf. Though there is no perfect plan, in the end, there are a variety of ways to approach every project; simply do your best to be smart and creative.
Below are some examples of project illustrations from our install managers:
Notice how the estimator draws arrows to indicate the main vantage point of the job site – where the majority of spectators will be when viewing the lawn. For the most aesthetic outcome, it is recommended to install turf in such a way that the grain or direction of the grass is pointing toward the main vantage point. As previously mentioned, installing turf in this way is not a hard and fast rule, and is often disregarded if orienting the turf in a different direction could conserve material.
Illustrations will also greatly assist in calculating the material and labor required for seams, if applicable. The estimator will draw dotted lines of the grass’ roll width to indicate where individual pieces would meet and be seamed. This visualization helps to accurately place and measure seam lengths so that you know exactly how many nails or how much seam tape your project requires.
Then, turn the water line back on and observe the capped sprinklers, making sure there are no leaks. If the sprinkler system for the lawn is an isolated system – meaning, all the sprinkler heads on that valve are located in only the installation area – you may cut and cap the line right at the valve; this is typically a one-inch non-threaded cap, which you would prime and seal in the same way.
Alternatively, drip lines can also be installed for more precise and conservative watering. However, if more complex solutions are needed, Purchase Green recommends seeking instruction from irrigation professionals before you install artificial turf.
Electrical systems and underground wiring may exist in landscapes to power lights, water features, and other elements. Electrical wiring is even a factor for some putting green projects that include our lighted cups. Unless the contractor or DIYer is familiar with handling these types of systems, again, Purchase Green recommends consulting with a professional before installing turf.
Identifying underground systems is critical in the estimation stage. Their exact location must be known and/or avoided during installation to prevent punctures.
As for trees, they can either be removed or installed around. Though, as you can imagine, installing around root systems can present certain challenges. The task is possible, just tedious. To be safe, Purchase Green suggests conferring with an arborist to ensure that the installation process will not harm the trees and their roots.
Whether you’re a landscape professional or a handy DIYer, the general guidelines for how to prepare for an artificial grass installation are the same. Below we’re diving into exactly what it takes to expertly plan for your project – such as how to thoroughly evaluate a job site, identify risk factors, and how to achieve a successful and lasting installation.
Step 1: Examine and Identify Risk Factors First, observe the streets and path leading up to the install site and take notes if you see potential obstacles for either the crew, the tools, or delivery trucks. Narrow streets can be difficult or even impossible to maneuver with a large trailer, and narrow gates or steps can make it much more difficult to move material.
Next, seek out and take note of all risk factors, including irrigation or electrical systems, large rocks, trees, roots, and nearby reflective surfaces.
Job sites with irrigation systems often have their sprinklers capped at the pipe level. Although, some elect to leave sprinklers as they are and simply install the turf around them. The latter is usually recommended for DIYers, but it’s completely optional and up to personal preference.
To cap a sprinkler head, ensure that the new cap is compatible with the system. In most cases, a threaded half-inch cap will suffice, and in fewer cases, you may need a three-quarter-inch cap. To begin, turn off the water line and remove the dirt surrounding the head, creating a hole roughly two to three inches in diameter. Remove the pre-existing sprinkler head and lightly coat both the new cap and the opening of the sprinkler line with a primer and sealer. Once primed, screw on the new flat cap and refill the hole.
Our goal is to be the premier provider of artificial grass solutions for contractors and residents seeking to redefine living spaces and landscapes. Our remnants are made from the highest quality materials on the market. We stand by our wide selection of products and the quality they exhibit.
Final Thoughts Overall, choosing to invest in an artificial grass remnant can prove to be a worthwhile investment. For new customers seeking to experience the tremendous value and utility of artificial grass, remnants serve as the perfect example of what a larger artificial grass installation can offer. Remnants also foster an individual’s creative side by providing limitless use cases. It is easy to start designing something spectacular with our wide range of shapes and sizes. Pet owners will appreciate the benefits of artificial grass remnants for their beloved pets. Parents seeking to enhance their children’s play areas will also benefit from artificial remnants. Overall, there is an artificial remnant for every person. But since each of our remnants are unique, they often sell out fast. So, take advantage of these incredible savings today by shopping at our online remnant store or visiting one of our convenient Purchase Green locations near you.
Artificial grass remnants are heavily discounted, usually between 40 – 60% off the retail value. When customers have small or odd-shaped projects, Purchase Green employees will typically recommend remnants over purchasing a new cut off a roll. This helps the customer save more money and the store to clear the warehouse of leftover product.
Additionally, many stores will regularly run remnant sales, where they discount the grass even further! Follow us on social media or check in with your nearest Purchase Green store to snag these savings for yourself.
Because remnants vary in size and shape, the applications for these products are endless. In the past, customers have displayed their creativity by using remnants as table runners, mudroom mats, wall art, outdoor chess boards, shoe trays, rugs, coasters, doormats, and pet mats. Larger remnants are perfect for event centerpieces, mini soccer fields, gym areas, roof/deck applications, and mini-putting areas. Find out more about some spectacular DIY (Do It Yourself) remnant projects here or watch our remnant video below!
If your decking is damaged or discoloured, you can restore it by using artificial grass. By installing synthetic grass on your deck, you are eliminating the need to fix, treat and seal your deck forever. Your new grass just needs an occasional hoover, or a quick scrub to remove any dirt. This is ideal for families or pet owners.
Astro Turf on Decking
You will also save money on the maintenance of your outdoor space. Deck paint and sealant can be expensive, and it’s a time consuming process. Brighten up your outdoor area with some artificial turf and you can enjoy spending time in your garden, without all the hard work!
How to Lay Artificial Grass on Decking
Step 1: Start by laying down some boards. This will prevent the grass forming ridges and falling into the gaps between the decking panels.
Step 2: Lay down an underlay product – such as our performance pad – and secure it well.
Step 3: Lay the grass onto the now clean and level area you are covering. Allow around 50mm of grass on each side of the area to trim off to ensure a perfect edge. Leave the grass overnight to settle, which will stop it wrinkling or creasing.
Step 4: Cut and trim your artificial grass, using a sharp Stanley knife. Ensure that you cut the grass neatly to the edges of the decking.
Step 5: To make the joins, use a high-quality outdoor tape and glue. Follow the instructions on the products. For decking, you can use a combination of adhesive and carpet tacks to fix the grass down.
Artificial grass is perfect for laying over decking. It’s easy to lay, looks great and solves a lot of problems for busy families. Hayley Leitch found it very useful for transforming her garden and reducing the hassle of natural grass. She solved the problems of mud, maintenance and marks with artificial grass, and is saving money to boot.
Cut 4 pieces of timber to the same height of the window. Secure two of the posts against the inside of the front wall. Decide how wide you want your bar to be. We would recommend half a metre (50cm) wide. Use your measuring tape to measure the distance and mark the floor with a pencil. Once you are happy, secure them in place.
Step 2 – Create the top of the bar
Create the top of your bar by cutting some plywood into shape. This should sit on top of the support posts, with a slight overhang at the front if you would prefer. Once you’re happy with the placement, secure it into place using a hammer and nails.
Step 3 – Cover the exposed side
To ensure that everything you store under the bar stays hidden, you can cover up the exposed side using some plywood. Measure the height of the posts and the width of the bar to find the dimensions. Once you’ve cut the plywood into place, secure it onto the side of the bar using a hammer and nails.
And there you have it! An outdoor bar in your own garden, perfect for entertaining guests and celebrating with your family.
Added Extras
Put up shelves on the back wall
To store your alcohol, you can put up some shelves on the back wall. Make sure they are level using a spirit level, and add some brackets underneath for extra support.
You should now move on to building the decking in front of your bar. Measure your decking boards to fit the space between your shed and the end of the platform. Safely cut them to size using a chop saw.
Step 2 – Secure the decking boards
Next, lay down your decking boards to ensure they fit correctly, using a spirit level to check they are level. You can then fix them into place, using 50mm screws.
Step 3 – Add posts to the corners
Add some wooden posts to the corners to support your handrail. Once they are level, fix them into place with some 100mm screws.
Step 4 – Add the railings
Cut the railings into the right length and screw them into place. Make sure these are extra secure.
Step 5 – Insert some spindles
Finally, cut some spindles to the correct length and secure these into place, evenly distributing them. We would recommend securing them two inches apart.
Cut two pieces of timber for the width and six pieces of timber for the length. You will need the four extra lengths to create inner joists. Position them in place before fixing together, to ensure that everything is the right size.
Step 3 – Assemble the base
Fix the outer frame together using an electric drill and screws. Next, place your inner joists within the frame and ensure they are equally spaced using a tape measure. Once you are happy, screw these lengths into the frame.
Building the shed
Step 1 – Lay down the floor
Lay down the floor of your shed on top of your platform. Check it is level using your spirit level. Once you’re happy, secure it in place.
Step 2 – Put up the walls
Erect your walls and secure them into place. You may need help from a family member in order to do this safely.
Step 3 – Attach the roof support bar
Measure the centre of your front and back panels to ensure that the roof support bar will be central. Fix this into position.
Step 4 – Adding the roof panels
You can now fix your roof panels to make the shed watertight. Once they are secure, you can add roofing felt, using felt tacks to keep it in place.
Step 5 – Attach trims and fascia boards
Finally, you can attach any trims which came with your shed, and fix the fascia boards on the front, covering the felt. You should pre-drill the holes to prevent them from splitting.
