If you’ve been dreaming of a cracking green lawn this summer, you’ve probably already realized that it’s not always easy – but always worth it to achieve your dream garden. Whether you want an outdoor space to put your feet up, enjoy a cuppa, or let the kids run around, turfing can give your garden a proper makeover in no time.
This guide will show you how to lay turf step by step, with handy tips to keep your lawn looking tip-top for longer.
What is turfing?
Turfing is the process of laying pre-grown grass, also called sod, directly onto prepared soil to instantly create a lawn. Turf is natural and sometimes preferred to artificial grass by homeowners who prefer a green garden space. Turfing a lawn gives you instant greenery and a smooth, uniform, and natural surface.
Traditional grass turfing remains the go-to for a natural look and feel. If you want to do it yourself, you’ll find out that by using a tufting gun or rolling out grass turfing mats, you can achieve a flawless finish in no time.
Types of turf and turfing options
Not all lawns are created equal, and the type of turf you choose depends on your space and needs. Here’s a quick guide:
Premium lawn turf
Soft, thick, and perfect for a classic, well-kept lawn look. Ideal for show gardens or outdoor entertaining spaces.
Pet-friendly turf
Durable, quick-draining, and resistant to paw marks, this turf can handle pets running and playing.
Sports or playground turf
Shock-absorbing and hardwearing, perfect for kids’ play areas or backyard football games.
Budget turfing
If you’ve been searching for “cheap turfing near me,” budget-friendly options let you lay turf without breaking the bank while still achieving a tidy lawn.
Artificial turfing
A low-maintenance alternative to grass, ideal for rooftops, patios, or areas where real grass struggles to thrive
How to lay turf: step-by-step
Turfing a lawn is a careful process that requires proper preparation to achieve a flawless finish. Whether you’re searching for “turfing near me” or planning a DIY project, here’s how the professionals approach it:
Site clearance
Before any new grass turfing can begin, the area must be cleared. This involves removing old turf, weeds, stones, and debris to create a clean foundation. Skipping this step can cause long-term issues, so thorough clearance is vital for strong turf growth.
Rotavating
The next stage is rotavating, a technique that aerates and loosens compacted soil. This process improves drainage and helps the new turf roots settle quickly. Think of it as “surfing and turfing” — preparing the ground to flow smoothly before the fresh grass goes down.
Levelling
Uneven surfaces can ruin the look of a lawn. By adding or redistributing soil, landscapers ensure there are no high or low spots. Levelling prevents water pooling and gives your lawn that neat, professional appearance.
Adding topsoil
A layer of quality topsoil is spread to give the turf nutrients and a supportive base. Without this, even premium turf can struggle. For homeowners considering artificial turfing, this stage is replaced with a stable sub-base to support the synthetic grass.
Turf laying
Now comes the main event — laying the turf rolls. Each piece is placed snugly against the next, with staggered joints for stability. A tufting gun may be used in some cases to secure turfing seams and prevent lifting.
Lawn edging
To finish, the edges are carefully cut and shaped, defining the boundaries of your lawn. Professional edging enhances the overall look and makes turfing a lawn feel like a garden transformation.
Watering and aftercare
Immediately after turfing, the new lawn is thoroughly watered to help roots bond with the soil. Ongoing care — including regular watering, mowing, and fertilising — is essential in the first few weeks. Many turfing near me services also provide aftercare tips so your lawn thrives long-term.
If DIY isn’t your thing, professional grass turfing services like PI Gardening can handle the hard work quickly, ensuring your lawn looks flawless from day one.
Tips for keeping your lawn perfect
Once your turf is down, keeping it healthy is easy with a little regular care:
- Water daily for the first couple of weeks, then gradually reduce.
- Mow regularly once the grass reaches about 5-6cm in height.
- Fertilise seasonally to maintain colour and density.
- Aerate occasionally to prevent soil compaction.
- Remove weeds promptly to avoid competition for nutrients.
Choosing a skilled turfing company can save time and guarantee a quality finish. Here’s what professional turfing with PI Gardening offers:
- Expert guidance on the best turf type for your space
- Full-service installation, from prep to finishing touches
- Knowledge of how to use a tufting gun or other tools effectively
- Competitive pricing and hassle-free experience
- Advice on long-term maintenance
Whether you’re laying your first lawn or upgrading old turf, we can make the process stress-free and ensure a perfect result every time – simply give us a call or drop us a line.
FAQs
What is turfing?
Turfing is the process of laying pre-grown grass (sod) to create an instant lawn.
Can I do turfing myself?
Yes – with proper preparation, tools, and instructions, you can learn how to lay turf on your own.
How do I find “turfing near me”?
A quick local search or enquiry with professional gardening services will point you to reliable turfing providers in London and London area.
What’s the difference between grass turfing and artificial turfing?
Grass turfing uses real soil-grown grass, while artificial turfing uses synthetic fibres for a low-maintenance lawn.
Do I need a tufting gun?
Not always, but it can help secure turf edges and ensure stability in high-traffic areas.