Turf Measuring & Laying
Measuring
Before ordering your new turf it is important to accurately establish the square meterage of the area to be turfed.
If your lawn is a simple shape this can be easily achieved by calculating the area by multiplying the length by the width.
If you have an oddly shaped lawn, it is helpful to first draw the area as precisely as possible, then divide it into a combination of geometric shapes. Calculate the area of each shape and add the totals to get the final area measurement.
Once you have calculated your total lawn area, add 5% to account for cutting around unusual shapes and barriers such as plants. You can get a Direct Turf quote online.
Preparation
Preparation is the key to success when laying turf. Ensure existing vegetation is removed and that the site is level.
The first step in preparing your site for new turf is to clear any weeds and existing grass by spraying the area with a herbicide such as Roundup, Glyphosate, or Zero weed spray.
These chemicals will kill existing weeds and grass, however these herbicides do not destroy seeds that may grow later in the soil. Additional applications may be required.
Note: Avoid spraying herbicides near garden beds or allowing the mist to drift onto them and is therefore best done on a day without wind.
Once the vegetation has been removed turn the soil over with a hoe to remove any remaining plant remnants.
Depending on your existing soil levels and soil condition, you may need to add additional soil to provide an ideal turf base. If you are laying turf parallel with an edge, keep your soil approximately 30-40mm beneath this height to accommodate for turf thickness.
pH is the measure of acidity within your soil. You should check your soil pH to ensure it is within the proper range of 5.5 - 7 to ensure the new turf will thrive. pH testing kits can be purchased from your local hardware store. Corrective measures may be required prior to turf installation if your pH is outside this range.
The last step is to level and smooth out the soil, keeping drainage in mind.
Most turf underlays have fertiliser mixed within; if it is not at the ideal rate, spread fertiliser over the prepared area. Sprinkle evenly, without applying excessively, as this could burn the roots of your new lawn. We recommend that you request that the turf underlay is mixed with fertiliser to avoid this.
Laying
Your turf will arrive direct from the farm in rolls. Lay your turf as soon as possible after it arrives.
Begin laying the turf on a straight edge if possible, at the furthest location from your entrance point and work your way back to the exit to avoid working over the fresh turf. Lay the turf in an offset brick pattern with the edges butting close together but not overlapping.
Once laid, use a roller to ensure the turf has good contact with the soil below.
If you're working on a slope, lay the turf across the slope, as opposed to up and down the slope.
Shape the grass around garden edges and trees using a sharp spade or hedge shears. Make sure to keep the excess grass offcuts in the shade and well watered as you work, in case you require them.
If you're working on a huge area, don't wait until it's all laid; start watering once you've laid each section down. The first hour spent in the sun is important. Before moving on to the next section, completely soak every square metre with water. The surface soil must be kept moist until the turf roots establish.
Establishing
Now that you've just installed a brand-new lawn; it's time to ensure it establishes well in the first 4-6 weeks.
The most important thing to do in the first few weeks after turf installation is to water your lawn consistently so that it can establish well and continue to thrive.
Depending on the time of the year, you should water deeply every day for the first three weeks or until your first mow. Deep watering will encourage roots to develop, which will enhance the drought tolerance of your new lawn. After this time, continue to water several times per week for a further 3 weeks or so.
Foot traffic should be kept to a minimum for the first 4 weeks. Once the turf slabs have established and cannot be lifted from the soil underneath, it's time to mow. Your first mow should be higher than normal, with the height gradually reduced to your preferred levels over subsequent mows.
After 6 weeks, apply a slow release lawn fertiliser evenly across your new lawn and water in well.
To ensure your lawn continues to look great and perform well, follow our Lawn Maintenance Guide.
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