Installing artificial grass offers a range of benefits, but it does require a significant investment. At first glance, DIY installation seems like a cost-effective choice while still enjoying that flawless artificial grass finish. However, what often isn’t immediately obvious are the hidden challenges that come with doing it yourself.
We’re taking a look at the hidden cost of opting for DIY installation when compared to choosing a professional artificial grass installation.
Hidden Cost #1: Ground Preparation Mistakes
Laying the ground work isn’t just a saying when it comes to your artificial grass installation. The base preparation ultimately determines how well your grass performs overtime. One of the reasons artificial grass offers a no mud, no mess solution is because existing grass and vegetation is removed before digging down a few centimetres to create a stable base. By creating a solid, level foundation, it helps reduce trips and falls, ensuring you and the little ones have a safe surface to enjoy. Unfortunately, some DIY installations don’t fully understand how far to dig, the importance of removing existing roots and vegetation, and creating a compacted base.
What can go wrong?
Artificial grass is renowned for providing homeowners with a stable and smooth surface. However, when the correct tools and techniques are not used to create a properly prepared base, you risk ending up with an uneven finish. This can lead to sinking areas over time if the sub-base settles unevenly or has not been adequately compacted. Poor drainage is another key consideration when deciding which installation approach to take. Without the correct groundwork and levelling, water may struggle to drain through the surface, causing water to pool – a no-no when trying to enjoy a mud-free solution.
Hidden Cost #2: Time Is Worth Something Too
Installing artificial grass can be a physically demanding experience. Along with this, it can be time-consuming too. What starts as a weekend project can easily turn into multiple weekends, especially if you don’t have the adequate knowledge and tools to install synthetic turf. A professional artificial grass installation eliminates the labour-intensive work and time commitment, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a pristine lawn without having to lift a finger.
Hidden Cost #3: Poor Drainage and Performance Issues
One of the many reasons artificial grass is a popular choice for UK homeowners is thanks to its excellent drainage system. Because artificial grass doesn’t absorb the water, what’s underneath it is incredibly important. A perforated backing and holes every 10 centimetres mean your artificial lawn drains effectively even when spring brings rain and mud. However, proper drainage requires a secure, level base, as an uneven surface can lead to water pooling and premature wear and tear.
Professional artificial grass installers like Easigrass have the knowledge to assess soil conditions, install a proper base, and ensure proper drainage. This helps create a foundation that doesn’t shift, wrinkle or lead to water pooling on the surface.
What could go wrong?
Drainage issues are one of the biggest risk factors when doing a DIY installation, as problems only show up once water is introduced to your artificial lawn. Without proper drainage installation techniques, flat areas can become “collection points” for rainwater and subtle dips missed during installation only become obvious with heavy rainfall. The disadvantages to poor drainage can include water that has nowhere to go, odours, and reduced lifespan of your artificial grass.
Hidden Cost #4: Visible Seams and Poor Finishing
Achieving a natural appearance requires precision, experience and understanding how a specific artificial grass product behaves when it’s joined. Joining artificial grass requires specialist seaming tape and glue, which is stretched and applied along the seam.
What could go wrong?
Without the right tools, accurate seam quality may be obvious, blades can sit inconsistently across the entire surface, and edges may look untidy and overlap if the proper tools are not used. Professional installers are trained to manage these details so your final product appears as one continuous, natural surface.
What You Should Consider Before You Decide
Budget: Because artificial grass can be an investment, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of investing in a professional artificial grass installation. No fertilising, no maintenance costs, and an investment that can last up to 20 years is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to synthetic turf’s benefits.
Time & Patience: Opting for a DIY installation can seem like a great idea to reduce costs, but how much is it really costing you when you consider how labour-intensive it is? When making a decision, consider your time, tools, and how much knowledge you have when it comes to the installation process.
Installation Difficulty: Installing artificial grass on a balcony is very different from an installation for your garden. Larger areas and high-traffic zones require significant expertise to ensure a seamless finish.
Easigrass is Ready To Transform Your Outdoor Space
Artificial grass may look simple to install, but it requires the right tools, skill, and attention to detail to achieve a professional, long-lasting finish. While a DIY artificial grass installation may seem like the way to go, the hidden challenges around preparation, drainage, equipment, and finishing can quickly add up. These factors not only have an impact on the overall appearance of your artificial grass, but its long-term performance and durability.
Speak to an Easigrass partner today about how we can help you achieve a flawless finish with our professional artificial grass installations.
