The very first step in bidding a project of incorporating synthetic turf ribbons in and between hardscape, you must educate the client the proper way their project must be installed. The client should be informed about the waste and cost it will take in order for the installation of turf ribbons to be installed correctly. I am sure the client is getting multiple estimates from other synthetic turf companies, so it is advisable to explain why there will be waste in order to have a successful installation. In the long run you will save labor costs and call backs by using large sections of turf and cutting out the hardscape instead of using pieces and strips. When incorporating synthetic turf ribbons, it starts with the hardscape contractor.
Contractors that place concrete, pavers, travertine, marble or flagstone rock will place the hardscape over a concrete bed or an exterior poured in place concrete edge to structurally hold the hardscape in place. This exterior concreted edge will cause difficulty in placing the correct amount of compacted imported subgrade materials to install the turf on. This exterior concrete edge will also cause difficulty securing the turf ribbons. It is advantageous to communicate with the hardscape contractor prior to the installation to ensure the edge of hardscape will not run past the line of your nailing edge. If this happens you will need to either saw cut or remove the overflow of the concrete, or drill and tapcon (drill and anchor) the turf ribbons with concrete fasteners.
Grading of imported compacted drainage soils When installing synthetic turf ribbons make sure there is proper drainage. Installing turf ribbons within flat or level hardscapes that have minimum or no positive drainage can lead to flooding and an unhappy client. When placing the imported drainage fill, make sure it is of good quality that will allow water penetration. The elevation of the drainage fill must be no more than 1/2 inch below all hardscape after compaction. This will prevent any trip hazards or toe stubbing after years of foot traffic. When compacting the imported drainage fill, I recommend using a hand tamper to compact properly. If the drainage fill is not compacted at least 80% the turf ribbons will settle over time and you will have to remove and replace and start all over again. Be careful when compacting with the hand tamper so you don’t chip or damage the hardscape. When the compaction is complete make sure the imported drainage fill is dry and tight. This will allow for the proper securing of the turf ribbons. When installing the synthetic turf I recommend using large sections of turf instead of strips. Depending on the size of the project you can actually save days of labor and materials by using large sections instead of seam tape and gluing sections and pieces together.
Also, check out our book Installing and Understanding Artificial Turf on Amazon.com
