What Happens During an Artificial Turf Install — a Day-by-Day Look

A common thing we hear after a job is done is 'that went faster and cleaner than I expected.' Most people have never watched a turf install happen, so they picture something more complicated and messy than it is.

Here's what the process actually looks like, step by step.

Step 1: The free on-site quote

Before anything happens, we come out to your property. We measure the area, look at the slope and drainage, talk through how you use the space, and show you turf samples. You feel the product before you decide, and you get a clear written quote.

This is also when we figure out the drainage plan. In Tsawwassen, with its sandy soil, drainage is usually straightforward. In Ladner or Richmond, we may need to account for clay or a high water table in the base design.

Step 2: Site prep

On install day, the first thing we do is remove the existing lawn or surface. Old sod comes out, the area gets raked and cleared, and we start assessing the ground level.

If the yard has drainage issues or the slope needs correction, this is the stage we deal with it. Getting this right is the part that separates a turf install that lasts from one that develops problems.

Step 3: Base build and compaction

We bring in and lay a crushed rock base, grade it to the correct slope for drainage, and then compact it thoroughly. This is the most important physical step in the whole process. A well-compacted base doesn't settle, doesn't shift, and keeps the turf surface level for years.

Skipping or rushing this step is how you get a turf lawn that looks bumpy two winters later.

Step 4: Turf installation

The turf rolls out over the compacted base. We cut it to fit the space cleanly, paying close attention to the seams — good seam work is what makes a large lawn look seamless. Edges are secured around borders, pavers, and fences.

We brush in the infill and groom the blades upright. By the time we clean up and leave, your lawn looks finished and ready to use.

Step 5: Cleanup and walkthrough

We clear all the material from the install, rake out the surrounding area, and walk the job with you to make sure everything looks right. The yard is ready to use the same day.

The whole process for a typical residential lawn takes one to two days depending on size and site conditions. If you want to know what your specific yard would involve, call us for a free quote and we'll walk you through it.