INSTALLATION PROCESS

GROUND CLEARING
The first step in the installation process is to clear the ground of any covering or debris. A clear base is vital to the long-term quality of our installations. For existing lawns, this may include removal of sod, rocks, gravel, etc. Although new construction installations will not require the same time commitment during this phase, care should be taken to ensure that the ground is clear of any remaining construction debris, or obstructions.


GRAVEL SUB-BASE
Next, install Road Base (ABC) at a depth of 2”-3”, and compact until sub-base is solid underfoot. Next, install ¼” minus decomposed granite (not in pet turf applications) and compact with a vibrating plate compactor to create a level smooth surface for the turf to sit on.

 

TURF LAYOUT
Determine how best to lay out the turf rolls. All of our landscape, playground turf and putting green material are available in 15' wide rolls. Due to the natural direction of the grass blades, the turf must all be laid out in the same direction. Therefore, it is very important that this layout is thoroughly thought out before cutting begins.

CUTTING THE GRASS TO FIT
This phase is where the turf is trimmed to fit your yard. The product can be cut around your existing landscape whether it is a perfect square or a winding path that is bordered by rocks. The best method is to lay the grass out and trace from the top where you’ll be making your cuts. There are 2 different tools you’ll need for this process. 1) Long pile carpet cutter. 2) carpet knife. You’ll use the long pile carpet cutter to cut from the top side to create long cuts that have curves (i.e. circle around the tree). The carpet knife will be used to cut the turf around the edges to fit against the border.

 

SECURING TURF
Secure the turf by staking the edges with landscape spikes. Spikes can be 3” to 6” depending on the application and possible irrigation lines under sub-base.

SEAMING THE TURF PANELS
When the area is wider than the rolls of turf you’ll need to seam the 2 panels together. This is done by seaming 2 panels together with turf adhesive and seaming tape. First, you’ll need to cut your seams with your carpet knife, or by using the Super Seam tool. If you're using a carpet knife cut 3 rows of yarn off the side of the turf including the ribbon on the sides. Once you have your seams cut and lined up pull both pieces of turf back so the sub-base is exposed. Lay down the seam tape with half of the seam tape under each panel. Use a synthetic turf adhesive and apply to seam tape. Cover the entire seam tape with the adhesive and use a 3/16th notched trowel to spread adhesive over seam tape. Once all the adhesive is spread carefully lay the turf back down on the seam tape while keeping all turf fibers from getting trapped under the backing. Once the seam is laid down, walk or roll over the seam to make contact with the backing of the turf. Seams can be reinforced with nails up and down the seam on each side.

 

INFILL
Except for pet turf applications, Round Silica Sand is the standard infill for artificial turf. Use a drop spreader to evenly drop the sand on top of the turf at 2.5lbs-3.5lbs per sqft depending on the pile height. Once all sand is spread evenly on top of turf it will need to be groomed into the turf fibers. Use a power broom to brush up turf fibers and let the sand work down in between the turf blades.

 

CLEAN UP
No job would be complete without the proper clean up. You can use a blower, rake, brush or broom to clean up the grass, as well as water.

 

Care & Maintenance



TURF CARE & MAINTENANCE


CLEANING THE SURFACE
Loose debris such as leaves and twigs can be easily removed by using a leaf blower or a standard broom or rake.

REFRESHING THE TURF
Your turf will be naturally cleaned every time it rains however if you live in an area where rain is scarce then we recommend spraying down your turf when you begin to notice the turf appears dirty.  Use a hose and spray nozzle. Be careful not to spray the turf with such pressure that it washes out the infill.

 

BRUSHING YOUR TURF
It is a good idea to periodically brush your turf with a stiff broom to keep the blades standing up straight.  Over time you may need to add infill if you notice that it has been washed away.  Simply sprinkle infill over the top of your turf and brush in with a stiff broom.  Areas exposed to high traffic may require more brushing than others.


DEEP CLEANING OR STAINS
If you notice some stains on your turf that plain water will not remove you can use basic household detergent mixed with water or “Simple Green”. Visit http://www.simplegreen.com for complete details and range of products available. Do not use any cleaners that contain chlorine bleaches or caustic cleaners. Once you are finished applying cleaner be sure to rinse your turf thoroughly with water to remove any traces of excess cleaner. Also, note that it is always easiest to clean a spill when it happens rather than letting it dry and harden. 


PET AREAS
If you have installed your Riviera Turf with our “Ultimate Drain System” + SmartFill infill then it will be easy to keep your Riviera Turf fresh and clean.  Simply flush the turf areas that have been exposed to urine and waste with a hose once a week or as needed.  If you notice any unpleasant odors a mixture of distilled vinegar and water or “Simple Green” can be used to neutralize them.  

 

PROTECT FROM BURNS
Keep any kind of flames away from the turf. This includes cigarettes, grills, fireworks, etc. Also, be sure that your turf is not exposed to any extreme heat created by reflective glass that may magnify the sunlight and burn the turf.