I have pavers in the backyard of my house, as shown in the attached picture. I am planning to install artificial grass in this area and would like your advice on the best method to proceed for a long term perspective.
Could you please recommend whether I should:
Reason
1 Have some relaxation area to sit down in evening and night
2 Play area for kids age 4-10 yrs
Note
Only installing the back side of the house . (Approx area to isnatll is approx 12 m x 2.3 m)
Not installing on the right side where gas water heater is installed (Planning to install patio that side in future)
Additionally, I would appreciate a step-by-step guide on the best installation approach based on your recommendation.
Looking forward to your guidance.
Hello @shaqqi
For a long-term and comfortable artificial grass installation, especially since you want a relaxation area and a safe play space for kids, it’s best to remove the pavers and prepare a proper base with compacted crushed rock and sand. This ensures better drainage, a softer surface, and long-term durability compared to laying the turf directly over the pavers. Removing the pavers allows water to drain more effectively, prevents puddles or mould, and provides a more comfortable surface for sitting and playing. It also ensures the artificial grass remains even and stable without the risk of pavers shifting over time.
To install the artificial grass properly, start by removing the pavers and clearing the area of debris, then excavate about 75–100mm to make space for the base. Spread around 50–75mm of crushed rock (road base), compact it firmly using a plate compactor, and then add a 20–30mm layer of fine sand or crusher dust, screeding it evenly before compacting again. Laying a geotextile weed barrier will help prevent weeds from growing through the artificial turf.
Once the base is prepared, roll out the artificial grass, ensuring the fibres face the preferred direction, then trim it to fit. Secure the edges with U-pins and use adhesive with joining tape for any seams. Spreading kiln-dried sand over the turf and brushing it in will help keep the grass upright and natural-looking.
Here are the products you'll need for a durable and comfortable artificial grass installation:
Here is a handy step-by-step guide: Tuff Turf Installation
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi @shaqqi,
Thanks for sharing the photo of your backyard so members can see what you are working with.
As it's a very large area, I would recommend you first create a plan to create different zones in your backyard. For example, you might like to keep some of the paving for an outdoor entertainment area with barbecue and outdoor furniture, but remove it for a play area with artificial lawn. It would also be good to consider some planting to create greenery.
Experienced Bunnings Workshop member Adam Woodhams shows you How to plan a garden makeover and How to give your garden a makeover in his popular two-part series. It would be a great place to start.
You should also get inspiration from our Top 10 most popular garden makeovers and our collection of Ideas to revamp your side yard.
Let me also tag some helpful members for their thoughts: @Dave-1, @Codey, @marliemakesit, @Jimi.
Hope that helps.
Jason
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