Artificial Turf Laying and Installation How-to Guide
Artificial turf, due to its aesthetics, durability, and low maintenance, has become widely used in sports venues, landscaping, and commercial spaces. However, high-quality artificial turf depends not only on the material itself but also on a scientific and rational installation plan. To ensure a smooth turf, secure joints, and smooth drainage, while extending its service life, this plan details the complete process from foundation preparation, turf laying, bonding, and post-maintenance maintenance. It also highlights key details and precautions during construction, providing practical guidance for construction teams.
Artificial Turf Installation Solutions
1. Foundation Work Inspection and Treatment
Site Cleaning
Remove debris, garbage, rocks, tree roots, and other obstructions from the foundation.
Ensure the construction site is clean and tidy to provide an ideal environment for turf laying.
Surface Leveling
Using gravel or specialized fill material to level any uneven areas.
The foundation slope should meet the design requirements (typically, a football field has a drainage slope of approximately 1%-2%) to ensure smooth drainage.
Ensure the ground is firm to prevent subsequent settling or heaving.
Drainage Inspection
Inspect the drainage system to ensure that rainwater can drain smoothly and avoid water accumulation.
A permeable layer or crushed stone layer can be laid on the foundation base to improve drainage.
2. Artificial Turf Laying
Turf Spreading
Spread the turf flat on the ground according to the manufacturer's specifications, with each turf patch overlapping by 3-8 mm.
Upon arrival, the turf should be spread out in a cool, well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours to release any stress from shipping and prevent excessive seams after laying.
Seam Treatment
Use a lawn mower to trim the overlapping areas, leaving a gap of no more than 3 mm between the seams.
To ensure a neat seam, mark the desired cutting location on the back of the turf before proceeding.
Lay the seam tape under the trimmed area. Apply the seam glue evenly with a glue applicator. Allow the glue to dry to the touch before gluing and taping.
3.Turf Bonding Process
Preparation
The turf base and joint cloth must be clean, dry, and free of dust and moisture.
The ambient temperature is recommended to be maintained above 5°C. Avoid application in rainy or humid weather.
Use specialized turf glue; do not use ordinary glue or cement-based materials.
Gluing
Use a dedicated glue applicator for the base cloth to evenly apply the glue to both contact surfaces.
Be careful to control the glue thickness to avoid double application, which may cause bubbles or detachment.
Apply glue evenly to ensure that the glue covers the entire joint cloth.
Bonding
After applying the glue, allow the drying time to be controlled according to the ambient temperature and humidity, generally 10-30 minutes, until the glue is 80%-90% dry.
Align the joints once and press firmly to prevent movement to ensure a secure bond.
Applying pressure
After bonding, tap gently from the center outward with a special rubber hammer to ensure a tight seal.
Clean the surface to prevent dust from affecting the adhesive bond.
Maintenance
After gluing, allow the turf to cure for approximately three days, avoiding direct sunlight, water, and movement.
Final strength testing is generally performed after 10 days to ensure joint stability.
4.Post-treatment of the Turf
Debris Cleaning
Before spreading quartz sand and rubber granules, thoroughly clean the turf from cutting and injection with an imported cleaner to ensure an aesthetically pleasing and safe laying process.
Spreading Filling Granules
Add quartz sand or rubber granules as needed to enhance the turf's stability and comfort.
After spreading evenly, use a brush or a specialized machine to straighten the grass fibers to create a natural effect.
5.Precautions and Details
Turf Placement
The turf should not be cut immediately upon arrival. Allow it to sit on a flat surface for at least 24 hours.
The grass fibers should maintain a consistent orientation to avoid noticeable color variations.
Mowing Techniques
Mowing the back of the turf is easier to control. Start by cutting larger pieces and then smaller ones, taking your time.
Avoid cutting too small at once, which can result in large joints.
Glue Application Precautions
When applying glue, avoid contact with the grass surface to prevent noticeable seams.
Joint tape and cement floors do not need to be glued, saving glue and facilitating thermal expansion and contraction.
Construction Environment
Avoid construction on rainy days, with high humidity, or in very low temperatures.
Keep the construction site clean and clear of debris that may affect the adhesion.
Use After Laying
Avoid stepping on or moving the grass during the curing period.
Inspect joints and filler particles regularly, performing spot maintenance as necessary.
Safety Operation
Wear gloves and goggles when using cutting tools and glue applicators.
Avoid contact of glue with skin and eyes, and maintain good ventilation in the construction area.
Through scientific construction techniques and meticulous operation, artificial turf will be neatly laid, beautiful, strong, and durable. During construction, attention should be paid to key aspects such as foundation leveling, joint treatment, bonding and maintenance, and grass fiber orientation. This will not only ensure the long-term performance of the turf but also reduce subsequent maintenance costs. Strictly following this plan for laying and maintenance will maximize the aesthetics and functionality of artificial turf, providing a high-quality, long-term, and stable green paving solution for various venues.
