You know that moment when you look out at your patchy, half-dead lawn and think, “There’s got to be a better way”? That’s where I found myself last summer—watering bans in place, lawn mower gathering dust, and the ground more brown than green. That’s when I started digging into artificial grass and what it takes to make the switch.

Spoiler: it’s easier than you think. And once it’s done? You’ve got a year-round green space that looks fresh, feels soft, and doesn’t ask for much in return.

The First Step: Planning and Prepping

Every successful install starts with a plan. Whether you're covering a courtyard, backyard, or front lawn, your installer will assess the area, take measurements, and identify any drainage needs or levelling issues.

Got existing grass? That’ll need to go. The surface has to be stripped back and levelled out, creating a stable base layer—usually made from crushed rock or a compacted sand-soil blend. This isn’t just about appearances—it’s to prevent movement or sagging down the line.

It’s All About the Base (No Trouble)

This part’s crucial: getting the sub-base just right. Think of it like laying the foundation for a house. It needs to be compacted properly, with a slight slope to allow for drainage. If your installer cuts corners here, you’ll know about it come the next rainstorm.

Some people opt to lay a weed membrane at this stage too, especially in garden areas. It’s not essential, but it does provide added peace of mind.

Rolling Out the Green

Here’s where things start to look exciting. The turf gets rolled out and trimmed to fit your space perfectly. Seams are joined using adhesive tape or glue, with careful attention to the direction of the pile so the finished look appears natural and consistent.

Then comes the infill—usually silica sand or a specialty turf product—brushed into the fibres to help keep everything standing upright and weighed down. This step also helps with drainage and softens the feel underfoot.

Post-Installation Care

Good news: there’s not much to do once your lawn is in place. A light brush every so often keeps the fibres perky, and a quick hose-down takes care of dust or spills. Compared to mowing, fertilising, and edging, it’s practically a holiday.

You’ll also notice just how versatile the space becomes. Hosting barbies, letting the dog run free, or just lying back with a cuppa under the sun—it’s all on the cards now.

The Payoff: Effortless Green All Year

Sure, installation takes a bit of time and prep. But once it's done, you’re left with a lush, low-maintenance lawn that’s ready for anything. No mud, no mowing, no stress—just a fresh, vibrant yard that looks as good in winter as it does in summer.

And honestly? That’s worth every bit of the upgrade.