Turf ground preparation – build the right base and install the rolls

Turf installation workflow

Plan delivery so that the subsoil, growing medium and finished surface are ready before the rolls arrive. A simple order is: check the base and drainage, spread the growing medium, level and compact the surface, lay the rolls, finish the joints, water immediately and keep the turf moist while it roots.

Check the subsoil and water flow

Remove old growth, weeds, roots and large stones. Check whether water stands on the surface or runs towards a building. Soft, clayey or organic soil may need a site-specific solution; there is no single base structure for every site.

Deal with compacted ground and drainage problems before spreading the growing medium. Otherwise new turf can develop uneven moisture or settlement even when the rolls are laid carefully.

Spread the growing medium and finish the surface

Kekkilä gives about 20 cm of compacted growing medium as a directional figure for lawns. The actual depth depends on the subsoil, product, finished levels and water conditions. Level the surface with the required fall and allow for paving edges, paths and the thickness of the turf roll.

Check the supplier's information on settling, product volume and ordering units before placing the order.

Plan the order and delivery

Measure the area and tell the supplier the planned layer depth. Kekkilä's example roll is 400 × 2,500 mm, or 1 m². For 40 m², that is 40 rolls before allowing for cutting and the product's ordering terms.

Finish the base and have the tools ready on delivery day. The rolls should not be left to dry while the ground is still being prepared.

Lay rolls tightly and stagger the joints

Start at the far end and lay rolls tightly without overlaps or gaps. Stagger the end joints so they do not form one continuous line. A 30–40 cm staggered pattern is an example used by Kekkilä; follow the instructions for the product you have bought.

Cut edges and rolls cleanly and do not stretch the material. Light rolling can improve contact with the base if the supplier recommends it.

Water immediately and support rooting

Water the turf immediately after laying and keep it moist while it establishes. Kekkilä recommends daily watering for the first two weeks and, in hot or dry weather, up to twice a day; weather, soil and supplier guidance determine the practical amount.

Once the roots have connected with the base, water less often but more deeply. Mow only after the grass has started to grow and follow the product's care instructions.

Turf or seed?

Turf gives a faster finished surface but requires precise logistics, a prepared base and prompt watering. Seed takes longer but can offer more flexibility in timing and grass mix. Choose the method for the use, schedule, weather and site conditions.

Common mistakes

• Turf is ordered before the base and growing medium are ready.
• Standing water or soft areas are left below the turf.
• Rolls are stored dry before installation.
• Joints line up in straight crosses or have gaps.
• The turf is not watered immediately or kept moist.
• Total finished growing-medium depth is confused with the new amount to order.