How to Install Turf in Backyard: A Complete Expert Guide for Bay Area Homeowners

How to install turf in backyard? This is the question of every homeowner who has an empty yard left, which they think has potential. Maybe you have tried planting flower beds or growing natural grass. But sometimes, it doesn’t work perfectly. This is where artificial turf comes as a hero to save your backyard.

How Do You Install Turf in a Backyard?

Installing turf in a backyard is not just about rolling out artificial grass. The durability and appearance depend almost entirely on what’s underneath.

Here’s the professional approach to how to install turf in backyard:

Plan the layout
Measure the area, identify drainage direction, and plan edges (fences, pavers, walkways).
Remove existing grass and soil
Excavate 3–5 inches deep to remove organic material and roots.
Prepare the base
Install a weed barrier, then add crushed rock or decomposed granite.
Compact thoroughly
Use a plate compactor to create a solid, level base.
Lay and secure turf
Roll out turf, trim edges, and secure with landscape nails or adhesive.
Add infill and brush fibers
Infill adds weight and stability, and helps blades stand upright.

This process applies whether you’re learning how to put turf down in a backyard, garden, or yard space.

DIY Turf Installation: Can You Turf Your Backyard Yourself?

Yes, you can install turf in a backyard DIY, and many homeowners attempt it. DIY installation works best for:

Small, flat backyards
Low-traffic areas
Homeowners are comfortable with excavation and compaction

However, DIY turf installation often runs into problems with:

Poor drainage
Uneven compaction
Wrinkles or seams
Weed growth

If your backyard has slopes, pets, heavy use, or connects to pavers, professional installation usually saves money long-term.

Ground Preparation & Base Materials (The Most Important Step)

One of the most common forum questions is: Can you lay turf directly over dirt?

Short answer: No.

What should you put under turf in a backyard?

A proper turf base includes:

Excavated soil
Weed barrier fabric
Crushed rock or decomposed granite
Mechanical compaction

Laying turf directly over dirt almost always leads to sinking, ripples, and drainage problems — especially in Bay Area clay soils.

If you want turf to last 10–15+ years, base preparation is non-negotiable.

How Long Does It Take to Install Turf in a Backyard?

For professionals:

Small backyard: 1–2 days
Medium backyard: 2–3 days
Large or complex spaces: 3–5+ days

DIY turf installation often takes longer due to learning curves and tool rental.

Types of Turf for Backyards

Not all turf is the same. Choosing the right product matters.

Turf Type	Best For
Landscape turf	General backyard use
Pet turf	Dogs, odor control, drainage
Putting green turf	Golf practice areas
Premium soft turf	Kids and lounging
Turf between pavers	Modern hardscape designs

At GLscapes Inc., we often combine turf with paver patios or walkways for clean, functional outdoor spaces.

Turf vs Natural Grass: Which Is Better for a Backyard?

Many homeowners compare installing turf vs installing sod.

Turf advantages:

No watering
No mowing
Consistent appearance
Handles pets well

Natural grass advantages:

Cooler surface
Lower upfront cost
Natural feel

In drought-prone Bay Area climates, turf often wins for long-term convenience and cost control.

Is Turf a Good Idea for Backyards?

For most Bay Area homes, yes.

Turf works especially well for:

Small or shaded backyards
Homes with dogs or kids
Side yards and narrow spaces
Low-maintenance lifestyles

Proper drainage and material selection are key to avoiding heat or odor issues.

Professional vs DIY Turf Installation

You should consider hiring a professional when:

Your backyard has a slope
You want turf between pavers
Drainage matters
You want long-term performance

At GLscapes Inc., we install turf as part of complete landscape systems, not just surface-level solutions.

Final Thoughts

Learning How to install turf in backyard is about more than appearance; it’s about durability, drainage, and smart preparation. When done right, turf creates a clean, functional outdoor space that lasts for years.

If you’re considering backyard turf, especially paired with pavers or hardscape features, GLscapes Inc. is here to help you design and install it the right way.

Contact GLscapes Inc. today for expert backyard turf installation across the San Francisco Bay Area.

FAQs

Q1: Can I turf my backyard myself?
Ans: Yes, you can turf your own backyard. But proper base preparation is critical. So you must have experience beforehand to install turf flawlessly.

Q2: Can you lay turf directly over dirt?
Ans: No, our experts strongly suggest NOT laying the turf on dirt. It leads to uneven surfaces and drainage problems.

Q3: What do you put under turf before laying?
Ans: Weed barrier + compacted crushed rock or DG.

Q4: How do you prepare the ground for artificial turf?
Ans: Excavate, compact, grade, and ensure proper drainage. Preparing the ground is highly necessary to get a smooth, even turf installed.

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Ready to transform your outdoor space? Contact GLscapes Inc. today to get a free estimate for your landscaping project.

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