Artificial lawns are a fantastic way to enjoy a green, lush yard without the fuss of constant maintenance. If you’ve recently installed an artificial lawn or are thinking about it, one essential step in keeping it looking great is sand infilling. In this blog, we’ll break down the process into simple steps so you can confidently sand infill your artificial grass and enjoy its benefits.
Step One: Choose the Right Sand
The first step to sand infilling is selecting the right type of sand. Not just any sand will do! You’ll want to choose silica sand, which is clean, dry, and has grains that aren’t too fine or too coarse. Silica sand helps your artificial grass blades stand upright, providing a more natural and appealing look. It’s like giving your lawn a little boost to keep it looking its best.
What Sand do I Use For Artificial Grass?
You might be wondering, “What kind of sand do I use for affordable artificial grass?” Silica sand is the answer! It’s designed to work perfectly with artificial grass and offers the right balance to support the structure of your lawn. You can find silica sand at most home improvement stores or garden centres.
Step Two: Apply the Sand
Applying the sand is the next step, and it’s quite simple. Once you have your silica sand ready, evenly spread it over your artificial lawn. A tool like a seed spreader or a shovel can help make the job easier. Make sure the sand gets into the fibres of the grass to provide that extra stability.
Benefits of Artificial Grass Infill – Why Do I Need to Sand Infill my Artificial Lawn?
Now, you might be wondering why bother with sand infill for your artificial lawn. The benefits are worth it! Sand infill improves the durability of your artificial grass, preventing matting and giving it a more natural feel underfoot. It also helps with drainage, keeping your lawn dry and preventing puddles during rainy days. Think of it as the secret ingredient to keep your artificial lawn looking and feeling fantastic.
Step Three: Brush and Spread Evenly
After spreading the silica sand, grab a stiff brush or a broom and brush the grass fibres against the grain. This helps the sand settle deeper into the artificial grass, providing better support. Ensure an even distribution to avoid lumps or uneven patches. Think of it as a little massage for your lawn – it helps the sand get cosy with the grass fibres.
Step Four: Add More Sand if Needed
If you notice any areas where the grass fibres don’t stand upright or if you feel there’s not enough support, don’t hesitate to add more sand. The goal is to achieve a consistent and balanced coverage. It’s okay to be generous with the sand, as it contributes to the overall resilience and aesthetic appeal of your artificial lawn.
The Finishing Touch: Compact the Sand
To complete the sand infilling process, use a lawn roller or even your feet to gently compact the sand. This step ensures that the sand settles in and around the artificial grass fibres, providing a stable and secure base. A well-compacted sand infill enhances the longevity of your artificial lawn, keeping it looking fresh and vibrant for an extended period.
Recap: Why Sand Infill?
As we conclude our guide on how to sand infill an artificial lawn, let’s recap the benefits:
Enhanced Durability: Sand infill significantly improves the durability of artificial grass, preventing it from flattening or matting over time. The added support helps the grass blades maintain an upright and natural appearance.
Improved Stability: Silica sand provides essential stability to the artificial lawn, ensuring that it remains firmly in place. This stability contributes to a more secure and even surface, reducing the risk of uneven patches or shifts in the turf.
Natural Look and Feel: The use of sand infill enhances the overall aesthetics of the artificial lawn by helping the grass blades stand upright. This gives the lawn a more natural look and feel, replicating the lush appearance of a well-maintained natural grass lawn.
Optimised Drainage: Sand infill aids in drainage, preventing water from pooling on the surface of the artificial lawn. This is especially beneficial during rainy seasons, ensuring that your lawn remains dry and usable even after heavy precipitation.
Prevention of Weed Growth: Properly infilled artificial lawns create a barrier that inhibits weed growth. The sand infill hinders weed seeds from finding a conducive environment to take root, reducing the need for weed control measures.
Long-Term Cost Savings: While there is an initial investment in sand infill, the long-term benefits translate into cost savings. The improved resilience and longevity of the artificial lawn mean less frequent replacements or repairs, ultimately saving homeowners money over time.
Increased Playability: Sand infill contributes to a softer and more comfortable surface, making artificial lawns ideal for various recreational activities. Whether it’s playing sports, having a picnic, or simply enjoying the outdoors, the even and stable surface enhances the overall playability of the artificial lawn.
Incorporating these additional tips into your sand infilling routine will ensure a flawless finish, allowing you to revel in the beauty of your artificial lawn with minimal effort. Remember, a little care goes a long way in maintaining the appeal and functionality of your outdoor space. Enjoy your vibrant, low-maintenance artificial lawn.