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Important Tips to Know about Preventing Wrinkles in Artificial Grass Putting Greens
Throughout the years, many artificial turf putting greens have fallen victim to wrinkling – a defect in synthetic turf surfaces caused by improper artificial grass installation. When the proper techniques and tools aren’t used during installation, temperature changes can cause visible wrinkles in your artificial turf putting green, resulting in a massive eyesore.
Whether you’re attempting a DIY artificial turf installation or a seasoned contractor, there are steps you can take that are essential to a successful, wrinkle-free installation.
What Causes Artificial Turf Wrinkles?
One of the many features of artificial turf is its ability to be shaped and molded to any surface. Synthetic turf can figuratively memorize a specific shape if placed under direct sunlight, which can develop wrinkles that will be impossible to get rid of.
When installing artificial turf, it’s vital to secure and stretch your synthetic turf to flatten away any wrinkles.
How Can You Prevent Wrinkles During Installation?
As you’re installing your artificial turf putting green, paying attention to detail will be crucial. Luckily, knowing the proper techniques is easy and will help you eliminate any chance of wrinkles occurring after installation:
- Lay Your Weed Membrane Flat: Any installation is only as good as its foundation. By ensuring that your weed membrane is laid flat, you’re on the right track to a wrinkle-free artificial turf installation. Since synthetic turf copies the shape of the surface it’s laid on, having a flat weed membrane will result in a nice, even surface for your artificial turf.
- Allow Time for Acclimation: If you can help it, try to install your synthetic turf on a bright, sunny day. Roll out your artificial turf and let it sit for a minimum of two hours. With the sunlight coming down on it, your synthetic turf should fall flat onto your even surface.
- Push out Visible Creases: If time isn’t on your side, having a carpet kicker handy can help speed up the process. Use the carpet kicker to smooth out any creases and stretch out your artificial turf. If necessary, put down U-pins as you go along to secure the synthetic turf and prevent any wrinkles from coming up later.
- Install the Right Amount of Infill: Once stretched and secured, you’ll need to place the right amount of infill to ensure your artificial turf’s ballast – the material weight required to stabilize your synthetic grass and keep its balance.
- Secure Your Artificial Turf’s Perimeter: Using the right edging can provide reinforced security to your artificial turf, ensuring that it stays flat. Typically, timber edging is the best material, nailed down appropriately six inches apart.
For more information, contact J.W.: askjw@sgwcorp.com or call 888.846.3598