A new synthetic turf lawn is a huge investment, so you naturally want to ensure that your final product is as flawless and natural-looking as possible. However, artificial turf seams can present a significant challenge if you’re not used to installing synthetic grass.

Professional artificial turf installers know that one of the most difficult aspects of installing synthetic grass is effectively preventing and hiding any seams. Not only are seams an eyesore, but they’re also a dead giveaway that your new landscaping is synthetic.

Whether you’re trying to DIY your turf backyard or you’re an artificial grass installer looking to improve your skills, try these five tips for eliminating seams in synthetic grass.

1. Pay attention to grain direction
The first and most basic step in preventing seams is ensuring that the grain of all pieces of turf is facing the same way. The grain refers to the direction the grass is facing, as virtually all turf blades will have a noticeable tendency to lean in one direction.

Lay out your two pieces of turf next to one another and verify that the turf blades are leaning in the same direction. If the grains do not match, you’ll instantly be able to spot the difference, and your lawn won’t look as natural or seamless when it’s finished.

2. Prepare the edge
Once you’re sure that the pile directions are matched up, you’ll need to trim the edges of your turf roll. Virtually all synthetic turf products will have a manufacturing edge strip that needs to be removed to allow two pieces of turf to sit flush next to each other.

When doing this, remember the adage, “measure twice, cut once.” Patience and accuracy are key, so take your time and make all cuts with extreme precision to eliminate any turf seams. For best results, cut as close as possible to the stitch, but do not cut the stitch itself.

3. Utilize seam tape
Once your synthetic grass is laid out where you want it, you’ll need to adhere it to complete the installation. To create an even and consistent surface for the adhesive to be applied, use seam tape to bind the two sections of lawn together.

SGW’s seam tape is manufactured with a special film on one side to prevent moisture from affecting the adhesive, allowing for proper curing. Place this side of the tape onto the compacted soil. You’ll apply adhesive to the side facing up, which will make contact with the bottom of the turf and bind the two turf rolls together.

4. Use appropriate adhesive
Once you have your seam tape laid down, apply a high-quality turf adhesive to secure the turf rolls together. Superseam 283C and Superseam Pro 444 are the strongest turf adhesives on the market today and, when applied correctly, will outlast the life of the seam.

High-quality adhesive and other installation materials will produce the highest quality seams by reducing fiber manipulation. Although some try to cut corners during the installation process by avoiding seam tape and adhesive in favor of quicker methods, the adhesive will ensure a long lifespan for your turf with no visible seams.

5. Weight the seam
Once you’ve applied the adhesive and folded the turf back over onto it, you should weight the seam to ensure strong contact between the adhesive, seam tape and synthetic turf. Weighing the seam down will prevent movement during the curing process and ensure the edges blend together seamlessly.

It can take up to 24 hours for the adhesive to dry, so be patient and weigh down the seam until everything is thoroughly dried and cured. The more time and care you put into the installation process, the better the results will be and the longer they will last.

If you need guidance in choosing the right artificial turf installation accessories, speak to your installer or contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse location. We can help you find the perfect synthetic grass products for your home or business. Synthetic Grass Warehouse has been an industry leader for more than 20 years, helping distributors, installers and homeowners alike with all of their artificial grass installation needs. To find out more about artificial grass wholesale or to receive guidance with your next turf grass installation, contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse facility today.