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Turfing is the process of laying down pre-grown grass on a prepared area to create an instant lawn. It's a popular choice to help enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space, plus a number of other benefits. These include increasing the value of your property, reducing soil erosion, providing a safe place for children and pets to play, and enhancing the air quality. 

Learn more about lawn turfing below, including choosing the right turf, installation, benefits, and the costs involved.

Overview

• Types of turf
• Factors to consider when choosing turf
• Steps to turf a lawn
• Benefits of lawn turfing
• How much does turfing cost?
• How to choose the right contractor
• Questions to ask your contractor
• FAQs

Types of Turf

There are two main turf varieties — natural and artificial — each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Natural turf is grown on soil and is living. The best type of natural turf to choose depends on the climate and weather conditions of the area. Warm-season turf such as Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass is best suited for hot and humid regions. On the other hand, cool-season turf such as Kentucky bluegrass and fescue is ideal for areas with cold winters and mild summers.

Artificial turf, also known as synthetic turf or fake grass, is made from various materials such as plastic, rubber, or nylon. It's designed to look like natural grass but without the need for watering, mowing, or fertilisation. Artificial turf is durable, easy to maintain, and can be installed in any weather condition. However, it has some drawbacks such as being more expensive than natural turf, being less environmentally friendly, and getting hotter in direct sunlight.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Turf

Choosing the right type of turf is crucial for the success of your outdoor area. Here are some things to consider when selecting your turf:

• Climate and weather conditions: The type of turf you choose should be able to withstand the climate and weather conditions of your area. Consider the temperature, rainfall, and sunlight when selecting turf.
• Soil type and pH level: Different types of grass thrive in different types of soil. Make sure to have your soil tested to determine the type and pH level. You may need to add amendments to improve the soil quality before laying down the turf.
• Amount of sunlight the area receives: Some types of grass need more sunlight than others. If the area receives a lot of shade, choose turf that is suitable for shaded areas.
• Water availability and irrigation system: If you live in an area with limited water supply, choose turf that is drought-resistant. Also, make sure to have an efficient irrigation system to keep your lawn healthy.
• Maintenance requirements: Different types of turf require different levels of maintenance. Consider the amount of time and effort you're willing to invest in maintaining your lawn before choosing the type of turf.

Steps to Turf a Lawn

Before turfing a lawn, there are a few important steps that need to be taken to prepare the soil:

• Soil testing: A soil test is the first step in preparing the soil for turfing. It will help to determine the pH level, nutrient deficiencies, and soil texture. The results of the soil test will guide the soil amendment process.
• Soil amendment: Once the soil test is complete, the next step is to amend the soil. This can include adding compost, topsoil, or sand, depending on the soil type and the results of the soil test. The soil should be loosened to a depth of at least six inches to ensure that the amendments are well incorporated.
• Levelling the surface: Before installing the turf, the surface should be levelled to ensure that the finished lawn is even. Any debris or rocks should be removed, and the surface should be raked to create a smooth surface.

Installing the Turf

• Measuring and cutting the turf: The turf should be measured and cut to fit the lawn area. This can be done using a measuring tape and a sharp utility knife. The turf should be cut to fit snugly against any edges, such as a fence or walkway.
• Laying the turf: The turf should be laid out in a staggered pattern, starting at one end of the lawn and working across. The seams should be tightly joined to prevent any gaps or overlapping.
• Watering and rolling the turf: After the turf is laid, it should be watered immediately to ensure that the roots make good contact with the soil. A lawn roller can be used to smooth out any bumps and ensure that the turf is evenly pressed into the soil.

Post-Turfing Care

• Watering schedule: The newly installed turf should be watered regularly for the first few weeks to ensure that the roots are establishing properly. The amount of water needed will depend on the climate and soil conditions.
• Fertilisation: Fertilisation is an important step in maintaining a healthy lawn. A slow-release fertiliser can be applied after the first mowing to ensure that the lawn is receiving the proper nutrients.
• Mowing and maintenance: Once the lawn is established, regular mowing and maintenance will be necessary to keep it looking its best. The height of the lawn should be kept at around 2–3 inches, and any weeds or pests should be addressed promptly.

Learn more: DIY turf laying: how-to guide

Benefits of Turfing

There are a number of beneficial reasons to install turf on your residential or commercial property, including:

• Environmental benefits: A healthy lawn can have several environmental benefits, including reducing erosion, improving soil quality, and absorbing carbon dioxide.
• Aesthetic benefits: A lush green lawn can add value to your property and create a welcoming environment for family and friends.
• Functional benefits: A lawn can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a play area for children, a space for outdoor entertaining, or a place to relax and enjoy nature.

How much does turfing cost?

The cost of lawn turfing in Australia can vary depending on various factors, such as the size of the lawn, the type of turf, the region, and the turfing company or individual hired to perform the job.

On average, turfing prices can range from $25 to $50 per square metre for standard turf, and up to $100 per square metre for premium quality turfing. However, prices can be higher or lower than this range depending on the factors mentioned above.

It's important to get quotes from multiple turfing companies or individuals to compare prices and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

Learn more: How Much Does It Cost to Install Instant Turf?

How to Choose the Right Contractor

Determining the most suitable contractor for turfing work means finding someone who can complete the job to the highest standard within your budget.

Here’s how to find the best contractor for your needs:

1. Get Several Quotes

Enter the information outlining your job on Service.com.au, and we'll provide you with a list of local tradespeople who can help do the job.

2. Narrow Down Your Options

Service.com.au uses a three-tier badge system to help you make the best choice.

We recommend selecting a tradesperson with the highest level (badge 3 – ‘recommended’) from our three-step verification process.

3. Do Further Research

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, check out the company’s online presence to get an idea of its reputation and service offering. View their website and social media pages to see customer reviews and the quality of their work in photos.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Here are some questions that can be helpful to ask when hiring a professional to install your turf:

• Can you provide references from previous work?
• Are you licensed or insured?
• How long have you been in business?
• How do you communicate with customers during the process?
• Are you flexible with your schedule, and can you work on weekends if necessary?

Turfing FAQs

When is the best time to lay turf?

The best time to lay turf is during the cooler months of the year, typically in spring or autumn. This allows the grass to establish roots before the hot summer weather or the cold winter weather.

How do I prepare the ground for turfing?

To prepare the ground for turfing, you need to remove any existing grass or weeds, loosen the soil, and level the area. This can be done by using a spade, a rotavator, or a garden fork to break up the soil and remove any debris.

How do I lay turf?

To lay turf, you need to roll out the turf rolls onto the prepared ground, starting at one end and working your way across the area. Be sure to stagger the joints to avoid visible seams, and press down the turf firmly to ensure good contact with the soil.

How often should I water my new lawn?

You should water your new lawn every day for the first two weeks after laying the turf. After that, you can gradually reduce the frequency of watering as the grass becomes established. Be sure to water thoroughly to encourage deep root growth.

When can I start mowing my new lawn?

You can start mowing your new lawn once the grass has reached a height of around 2–3 inches (5–7 cm). Be sure to set your mower blades high to avoid cutting the grass too short and damaging the roots.

How long does it take for a new lawn to become established?

It typically takes around 2–3 weeks for the new grass to establish roots and become fully integrated with the soil. After that, the lawn will continue to grow and develop over the coming months and years.

Turfing Near Me

All the costs quoted were sourced at the time this article was written. They are to be used as an AUD cost guide and may vary locally, and are subject to market changes.