Landscape & Outdoor Services

Knowing how to install artificial turf is the secret to having a green, beautiful yard without the upkeep of real grass. Artificial turf has grown in popularity for both residential and commercial applications as a solution to drastically reduce water consumption, stop mowing, and maintain a clean, uniform landscape all year long. This all-new guide to the artificial turf installation process will help you understand what it takes to make your turf look real, drain well, and perform for years. Whether you are hiring a professional or doing a DIY artificial turf installation yourself, these tips will help you install your turf easily and effectively. Planning and Site Evaluation Measuring the Area Accurately Planning is essential prior to installation. Measure the area where you will be laying artificial grass to the length and width, considering of curves, slopes, walkways, trees and any other obstacles. Precise measurements also allow you to calculate the quantity of turf, edging and base material that you need, which minimizes waste and unexpected costs. Doing the site evaluation properly also assists in identifying any drainage problems. These issues can be dealt with prior to installation, preventing problems like water pooling or uneven settling down the road. Artificial Turf Base Preparation Removing Existing Grass and Soil Among the most critical steps in the whole installation process is proper artificial turf base preparation. All grass and all the roots of the weeds or whatever you have, need to be removed. Leave organic material beneath the turf and you can have sinking, uneven surfaces and weeds growing through them over time. Typically, the earth is dug out to a depth that provides room for the base materials, plus the thickness of the turf. This digging out provides a firm base and makes the artificial lawn sit flush with neighboring surfaces. Installing and Compacting the Base Layer After digging, a crushed stone or decomposed granite base has been laid out and evenly leveled over the space. That material is also compacted so that the end result is a firm, flat surface. A well-compacted base is critical to the success of the artificial turf installation process, stability and drainage can’t be stressed enough. Pro installers usually use a plate compactor to get a compact and even base. For the at home job work, you should definitely rent the right compaction equipment, and if do not want to deal with IRS on you in the future. You may read How Much Does Artificial Turf Cost ? Installing the Artificial Turf Positioning and Aligning the Turf After the base is installed, the synthetic grass is laid on top. Be sure all turf pieces are oriented the same way so the blades look uniform and natural. Bad seaming can cause noticeable color banding across the lawn. The grass is cut exactly to the edges, curves and corners. Accuracy at this stage also contributes to a seamless look and eliminates gaps between borders and hardscapes. Joining Seams and Securing the Turf When more than one piece of turf is needed, seams are joined with special tape and adhesive. The right seam placement and bonding hides the joints in seams and ensure they will remain solid, hidden and reliable for many years. The grass is secured along the perimeter and also along seams with landscaping nails or staples. This step ensures that the turf will not move, not even under heavy foot traffic, pets, or garden furniture. Artificial Turf Infill Installation and Finishing Touches Applying Infill Material Artificial turf infill installation is a pivotal final step that improves the appearance and functionality of the lawn. Infill products, like silica sand or rubber granules, are dusted evenly onto the turf. The infill raises the turf blades, aids drainage and adds weight to the carpet to help keep it still. Without adequate infill, artificial turf can compress and become less comfortable to walk on. The right amount of infill applied will give a more natural look and longer life to the turf. Brushing and Final Inspection Once the infill has been added, a power broom or stiff-bristle broom is used to brush the turf. This action raises the blades and mixes the infill thoroughly into the turf’s fibers, leaving the lawn looking shiny and natural. A final inspection is made to verify that seams are tight, edges are correctly fastened, and the drainage is working as expected. This is critical, particularly when laying turf over ground where natural grass used to grow. DIY Artificial Turf Installation vs. Professional Installation Many people who own a home think DIY artificial turf installation will be a big money saver. While it’s possible for a DIY project to turn out well, they often go awry without proper planning, tools, and know how. Errors such as under compacted base, insufficient drainage or exposed seams can be very expensive to rectify later on. Experienced installers possess knowledge and equipment specific to the industry, which helps them avoid common pitfalls. A turf lawn that is professionally installed normally has a longer lifespan, looks more natural, and holds up better under heavy wear. Benefits of Proper Artificial Turf Installation If installed properly, artificial grass has many benefits. It is low maintenance, cuts down on water usage, and stays green all year long. Proper installation will allow the turf to drain well, to hold up to wear and to keep its look over time. Knowing how to install artificial turf the right way will also help homeowners make better decisions about the process and prevent them from taking shortcuts that could reduce the performance and longevity of their turf. Final Thoughts Homeowners can better understand the importance of careful planning, proper ground preparation, and precise finishing touches by learning how to install artificial turf. Every step—from synthetic grass installation to placing artificial grass and completing the infill—is essential for a durable, natural-looking lawn. Whether starting from bare soil or installing turf over an existing lawn, professional installation ensures long-lasting results. For trusted Whittier lawn installation services, Robert’s Complete Care delivers expert craftsmanship tailored to local landscapes. Our team ensures flawless installation, superior drainage, and a polished finish. Contact Robert’s Complete Care today to schedule your Whittier artificial turf installation and transform your lawn with confidence. FAQs How do you prepare ground for artificial turf?

So, can you lay turf over moss or another layer of old lawn? It sounds so simple – just spread fresh new turf on top of your tired old lawn and get instant results. But is that really such a great idea? At Robert Complete Care, we get this question a lot from homeowners who want a quick and affordable yard fix. In this turf-over-lawn guide, we’ll tell you: Does putting turf over grass even work? What happens if you do? And how can you get the best chance of success with long-lasting, healthy turf? Can You Lay Turf Over Existing Grass? Can you lay turf over grass? The short answer is: yes, you can—but it’s not recommended. Although it might seem like the easy way out, layering turf on top of old lawn grass will almost always result in disappointment. New turf requires crisp contact with prepared ground in order to develop strong roots. Existing grass inhibits the —growth of—new grass by blocking vital nutrients, water and oxygen. So many lawns have failed for lack of preparation, and we have helped many homeowners breathe new life into their yards. Will Turf Grow on Top of Grass? Among the most common questions I receive from homeowners: can I lay turf over existing grass? Strictly speaking, turf can live for a little while, but it won’t flourish. Why Turf Struggles on Existing Grass Roots cannot access soil adequately. Water percolates unevenly. The existing grass takes nutrients. Old grass rots away, which creates air pockets. Turf can lift, shift or die in slabs. Within weeks, you may notice: Yellowing turf. Uneven surfaces. Developing roots poorly Increased weed growth In order to be successful over the long term, turf should be laid on a soil that has been prepared, and not laid on top of grass. Why Laying Turf Over Existing Grass Is a Bad Idea It causes problems later on even though it saves time at that point in time. Poor Root Establishment Turf needs to be rooted in soil. The grass underneath stops this, making for shallow roots and weak turf. Uneven Lawn Surface As the old grass dies and rots, the earth subsides unevenly, resulting in undulations. Drainage Problems Between the turf and the layer of old grass, water is trapped, resulting in root rot and fungal infections. Increased Maintenance Lawn over grass usually needs more frequent watering, reseeding and patch mending. Robert Complete Care, we always recommend a good preparation to prevent the expense of these problems. When Might Laying Turf Over Old Lawn Be Considered? Rarely homeowners choose to lay sward without working up the soil in the following instance: There is virtually no grass at all The lawn is almost dead “Temporary grass is required for an event” Even so the effect is brief. Not so for permanent lawns – those professionals don’t recommend this route. The Right Way to Lay Turf (Professional Method) Don’t Cesarean-section your lawn—follow this process vetted by the pros behind Robert Complete Care. Step 1: Remove Existing Grass The first and most essential step is taking out the old grass. How to Remove Grass Use a sod cutter (best option) Dig manually with a shovel Use a non-toxic grass killer (Wait for the grass to completely die.) Removing grass allows the turf roots to have direct contact with the soil. Step 2: Prepare the Soil Soil preparation is essential for a good lawn. Soil Prep Checklist Loosen soil 4–6 inches deep Eliminate stones and garbage Remove the stones, dust, sticks, rusted metals, and any other garbage from your soil. Add compost or topsoil Flatten the surface Level[tukar Bread Council Member] Do not place top soil in more than 1 inch Layers. Lightly　compact the soil It’s building the perfect foundation for new turf. Step 3: Lay the Turf Correctly Now you’re ready to install your turf. Best Practices Best Practices Lay turfs immediately after delivery Begin along straight edges Begin along straight edges of the room first Stagger the seams like you would when you are laying bricks. Press edges tight to gether Press the edges of the turf tightly together Do not stretch the turf. There shouldn’t be gaps at Robert Complete Care, we make sure every piece fits snugly and tight to each”other. Step 4: Water Thoroughly Watering is crucial after turf installation. Watering Schedule Water immediately after laying turf Keep turf moist for the first 2 weeks Avoid heavy foot traffic Gradually reduce watering once roots establish Proper watering helps turf bond with the soil quickly. You may read How Much Does Artificial Turf Cost? What Happens If You Skip Grass Removal? Homeowners who attempt laying turf over existing grass often experience: Turf lifting within weeks Dead patches Fungal disease Weed growth through seams Costly replacement At Robert Complete Care, we’re often called to fix these problems—something that could have been avoided with proper preparation. Cost Comparison: Proper Turf Installation vs. Shortcut Method Method Initial Cost Long-Term Cost Laying turf over grass Lower High (repairs & replacement) Proper turf installation Moderate Low (long-lasting lawn) Choosing the correct method saves money in the long run. Why Choose Robert Complete Care for Turf Installation? Professional turf installation ensures: Ensures Proper grass removal Soil testing and preparationCorrect turf placement Correct turf placement Even leveling Expert watering guidance At Robert Complete Care, we feel your pain – we design turf to keep your yard looking great year after year. Our team works hard so you could be assured your turf looks great – and stays that way. Final Thoughts So, can you lay turf over existing grass? You shouldn’t if you want a healthy, long-lasting lawn.For turf that grows well, looks great, and lasts, the old lawn must be removed and the soil properly prepared. Skipping this step can lead to poor growth and costly repairs. Robert Complete Care offers expert lawn installation services in Whittier for flawless results every time. Trust our team for professional turf installation that saves you time and effort. Call Robert Complete Care today and enjoy a beautiful, durable lawn you can rely on! Frequently Asked Questions Can I lay turf directly over weeds? No. Weeds make the same problems as grass and they get grow up through the seams of turf. How long after grass removal can I lay

Synthetic turf is a growing trend among dog owners, but the biggest question is a simple one: Can dogs pee on artificial turf? Dogs can urinate on artificial grass in the same way they do on real grass. The main difference is in how the turf manages drainage, odor control, and maintenance over time. For the dogs and the owners, in artificial turf, pet owners now have an environment that is cleaner, more dog-friendly, and more durable than mowed, worn-out grass or muddy patches. In this buying guide, we discuss how turf reacts to dog urine, the maintenance it needs, and the best ways to select a system that will provide you with many years of pet-friendly performance. Why Dogs Can Safely Pee on Artificial Turf Dogs were made to poop outside of their homes, and artificial grass is made with dogs in mind. Good-quality turf systems have drainage layers that enable liquid waste to run off efficiently. This prevents puddling, wet spots, and bacterial accumulation. Some products also feature antimicrobial backing to combat odors and enhance hygiene, which makes them suitable for households with multiple dogs. Synthetic turfs are resilient and stay green all year round, which is why many people are opting to install fake turf for dogs that holds up in rain and shine. This demanding environment drainage immediately and high wear resistance make turf a superior choice for dog-friendly homes. How Dog Urine Interacts With Artificial Turf Dog urine is acidic, and on natural grass, it can lead to patches of yellow, brown, and discolored areas. However, on artificial grass, the urine does not stain the blades. Instead, it is on a perforated base and sublayer for the drainage system. This aspect is one of the biggest benefits of combining artificial turf and pets in one yard. Now, to be fair, urine won’t ruin the turf, but over time, you can develop an odor if the lawn isn’t properly maintained. That’s why you need to select enhanced infill options, odor-control layers, and frequent rinsing to maintain long-term freshness. Benefits of Installing Turf for Dog Owners Artificial grass has become the ideal choice for many pet owners as it addresses the issues of lawn upkeep. The benefits are difficult to overlook, from longevity to cleaning. No More Yellow or Dead Spots Natural grass gets killed by dog pee, and makes your grass look patchy. With artificial turf, the blades stay green and intact no matter how many dogs use the space. Excellent Drainage Turf systems used today drain much more rapidly than natural soil, resulting in less stagnant water and puddling on the surfaces. This is useful to know, especially if you have several animals that frequent potty zones daily. Cleaner Outdoor Environment There are no fields of mud, dirt, or loose soil. Dogs are cleaner, and homeowners have less indoor mess after rainy days. Long-Term Durability Dogs love to play, dig, and run. Good quality turf is made to withstand a lot of foot traffic and lively dogs without becoming patchy or torn. How to Maintain Turf for Dog Pee While turf for dog pee is made to be able to be used for urine, with a little TLC, the yard can be kept smelling fresh and clean. Luckily, all that is required is a few minutes of maintenance per week. Regular Rinsing Spray the turf with water 2 to 3 times a week according to the number of dogs you have. This dissolves the urine salt build-up and reduces odor. Use an Enzyme Cleaner Enzyme-based pet-safe sprays can digest the organic matter causing the odors. Apply to high traffic areas or focus on potty areas. Keep Solid Waste Picked Up Clean up solids daily, then rinse the area with a light stream of water to keep things clean and hygienic. This also inhibits bacterial growth, which helps combat unpleasant odors. Refresh Infill When Needed Some turf systems come with deodorizing infill that neutralizes smells and allows better airflow. Renew it once or twice a year for positive results. Choosing the Best Artificial Turf for Pets Not all turf products were created with the same matter-of-fact standards in mind. When choosing a system for your pets, look for: High Drainage Rate Select the turf with a fully perforated backing for efficient drainage. Quicker drainage reduces odor and keeps the surface comfortable for dogs. Antimicrobial Technology A few turf products have antimicrobial coatings or backing layers to help control bacteria and odors. Dense, Durable Fiber Structure Dense fibers are more resistant to wear from digging and rough playing. Tough blades keep their shape even in homes with several dogs. Odor-Control Infill Infill also has an important role in neutralizing odors. Copper, zeolite, or coated sand are infill options that are popular choices for dog-friendly installations. Does Artificial Turf Smell Because of Dog Pee? Synthetic turf does not have a smell. The smell is only when the urine accumulates and is not hosed off or cleaned regularly. With regular care, a turf yard can stay clean and healthy. Multi-pet households may also want to place an odor-control layer beneath the turf to help neutralize ammonia smells. Tips for Training Dogs to Use Artificial Turf Training a dog to go on synthetic grass is generally easy because it feels like real grass. But puppies or senior dogs might require more direction. Choose a Designated Potty Area Having a designated area also limits the smell and makes it easier to clean. Use Positive Reinforcement After they pee on the turf, give your dog a treat or praise. Stick to a Routine Be sure to take your dog to the turf at the same time(s) each day to establish a routine. Clean Regularly A well-maintained turf area will also mean your dog will be confident on early visits. Common Mistakes to Avoid With Dog-Friendly Turf But some mistakes can shorten the life of a synthetic lawn, even if you do everything they say you should.­ Avoid Harsh Chemicals The backing of the turf can be harmed by bleach and other strong cleaners, and the blades can be discolored. Do Not Allow Urine Buildup Failure to rinse results in a lingering odor, which is more difficult to remove in the long run. Avoid Cheap Turf Systems Poor-quality turf can mat down, tear, or hold on to smells

There’s nothing quite like the convenience of turning on your sprinkler and having it do all the work. You can’t beat the time savings and watered lawn with sprinkler system irrigation. Prepare for a weather change: Lawn sprinkler system rain delay setting Don’t waste water, tell your system it’s going to rain! From then on it was a battle to clear the air and return sprinkler head spray to the lawn. Here’s how to install a lawn sprinkler system. 7 Tips for Installing Sprinkler System Choosing Parts How Rain Bird Sprinkler System Can Help With this guide, you will learn how to easily install your system. Why Install a Lawn Sprinkler System? While professional installation for a drip irrigation system is costly, it will be significantly less if you install a DIY drip irrigation system yourself. Here is what a respectable sprinkler system has to offer: Consistent watering; Uniform watering over the entire lawn Water efficiency;Water efficiency to prevent waste and lower your water bill Convenience;Convenience as system runs on timer Healthier turf; Even moisture is the best thing you can do for a healthy lawn and it’s why sprinkler design is so important! And that is precisely why more homeowners are deciding to do the installation of sprinkler system equipment themselves – particularly now with modern, easy-to-use companies like Rain Bird with plug-and-play type products and installation kits geared for the beginner. Step 1: Plan Your Sprinkler System Layout Before digging, planning is everything. This step determines how effective your system will be. Measure Your Lawn Divide the yard into zones: Front yard Backyard Side areas Garden beds (optional) Each zone will need an individual valve for proper water pressure. Draw a Scaled Diagram Create a simple map of your yard and include: Driveways/walkways Flower beds Trees and shrubs Property boundaries Decide on Sprinkler Head Types Rain Bird offers several options: Rotors: Great for large areas Spray heads:Best for small to medium-sized lawns. Drip irrigation: Good for garden beds and bushes. Check Your Water Pressure Use a cheap pressure gauge. Most systems need: 30–50 PSI for spray heads 45–60 PSI for rotor heads If your pressure is too low you may need a booster pump and/or more zones. Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools For a standard lawn sprinkler system, you will need: Essential Materials Rain bird sprinkler heads (rotors or sprays) Rain Bird valves Rain Bird automatic timer/controller PVC pipe or polyethylene pipe PVC connectors and elbows Backflow preventer (code required in many wereas though) Valve box Pipe glue or clamps Wire connectors Tools Shovel or trenching tool PVC cutter Measuring tape Screwdriver Pipe wrench By purchasing one trusted brand like Rain Bird you can be certain all your pieces fit together and withstand the test of time. That’s also what makes the irrigation installation process so much easier — the parts just connect. Step 3: Dig the Trenches This is the physical labor part of the project. How Deep Should You Dig? 8–12 inches deep for PVC pipes 6–8 inches deep for poly pipes Using a trenching machine can save time if your yard is large. Tips for Easier Digging Mark your sprinkler head locations with flags Follow your layout plan closely Dig straight lines to make pipe installation easier Avoid large roots or underground utility lines. Always call your local utility marking service before digging. You may read How Much Should Lawn Aeration Cost? Step 4: Install the Water Supply Line Your sprinkler system needs a steady water source. Common Water Hookup Options Outdoor faucet (simple but lower pressure) Main water line (best for full-lawn coverage) backflow preventer is essential to prevent the water from your lawn from backing up into your home’s plumbing. Connecting the Water Line Shut off the main water supply Splice in a tee fitting Connect your control valve manifold Place valves inside a valve box for protection Rain Bird valve manifolds make this part simple because they are pre-assembled or easy to snap together. Step 5: Lay the Pipes and Connect Sprinkler Heads This is the most important stage of sprinkler system installation. Install the Main Line Run pipe from your water source into each trench. Add Zone Lines Each zone should branch from the main line with a Rain Bird valve controlling water flow. Attach Sprinkler Risers Install risers where each sprinkler head will sit. Make sure the height matches your lawn level. Install Sprinkler Heads Connect Rain Bird sprinkler heads to the risers. Make sure: Heads are level They face the correct watering direction They don’t hit sidewalks or fences Test the Pipes Before Backfilling Briefly turn on water and check for leaks. Step 6: Install the Rain Bird Timer and Wiring A timer is the “brain” of your DIY sprinkler system installation. Installing the Controller Mount the Rain Bird controller indoors (garage) or outdoors using a weatherproof model. Wiring Steps Run low-voltage wiring from the controller to each valve Connect zone wires individually Connect common wire to all valves Secure wires with waterproof wire nuts Rain Bird controllers allow you to create: Multiple schedules Rain delay settings Smart watering schedules This maximizes water conservation and lawn health. Step 7: Test the Entire System Before burying everything, test each zone. What to Check Adequate water pressure Even coverage Rotation angles Head height Leaks in pipes or joints Adjust If necessary to ensure uniform coverage of the yard without watering onto non-lawn areas. Step 8: Backfill Trenches and Final Adjustments Once everything works perfectly: Carefully fill in the trenches Press soil down firmly Replace grass or sod pieces Make final adjustments to spray patterns Your lawn sprinkler system is now completely installed and ready to be used on a regular basis.  Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Performance If well installed, a sprinkler system is quite low maintenance, but a little occasional attention will help you keep it running smoothly. Check monthly for clogs on heads. Flush system before summer Winterize pipes in freezing regions Seasonal timer setting check Rain Bird systems are built to last, and maintenance will help them continue to perform at their best for the next several years. Final Thoughts Installing a lawn sprinkler system is one of the best ways to