Follow these 8 easy steps and your project will run smoothly.

Grab a pen and pad of paper so you can jot down a few notes and write down your thoughts as we guide you through capturing the vision of your dream new low-maintenance lawn, landscape, or green.

1. How does the area look when it is finished?

To help you visualize, you can get gardening and landscape magazines and browse through them. Go to home shows to see the exhibits, visit landscaping and garden websites, and watch TV shows to help spark ideas! Even driving around the local area to see what draws you in other landscape designs can help you build a palette of ideas on which to build your wish list for your new project.

Thinking things through before calling for a quote will help you describe to your designer or contractor exactly what you want in the area and, more importantly, help you visualize the right solutions to meet your wishes and needs. site. after all, they are there to help put their experience and know how to work for YOU to help build the project of your dreams.

To find a professional designer in your area, check online with APLD (Association of Professional Landscape Designers) to find someone near you, in the US.

Important items to consider that can affect the cost of installing artificial grass:

Access to the workplace: stairs, slopes and other obstructions create delays and increase labor costs

Site preparation needs will determine nearly 30% of the cost of your work. Demolition, excavation, grading, and additional structures should be considered in your budget.

What are the high traffic patterns in the area? Will you need to add hallways, a wall to sit on, or maybe a new stone deck or patio?

Do you see any elements of the landscape that you want to change, such as the location or size of lawn or garden areas or perhaps the addition or removal of irrigation systems, drainage, planters, gas or propane grills / grills, fireplaces, lighting or water elements?

2. Look at all aspects of the workplace – are there any items you need to add to your list that need to be repaired, replaced, or could need some renovation? Again, write these items on your wish list to discuss with your designer or contractor …

Does your area drain well? It could get better?

Artificial grass installers typically provide comprehensive services including digging, drainage, and the installation and modification of your landscaping needs.

Renovations can pose some interesting challenges, keep them in mind! Demolition and removal costs can add dollars in time, labor, transportation, containers, and dump fees.

To reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, you can invest a little capital in the project. Find out what you can do to help prepare the site for the contractor; it could be as simple as removing an existing lawn area.

3. Learn more about artificial grass materials, how they are manufactured, their uses, typical installation guidelines, and any local design or building codes that require specific action on your part.

For example, some homeowner-merchant associations (retail and office buildings) require you to submit plans for new projects and obtain approval prior to construction.

To get started, check with your local water provider and see if they offer rebates to homeowners who choose to replace irrigated areas with drought-resistant plants and artificial grass materials with natural grass. You can find that information online on ASGi’s water rebate program pages.

No state or county in the US limits the use of artificial grass for landscaping or sports use; if you have restrictions, they will be from local organizations that require design guidelines for your property. Check with your homeowner’s or merchant’s association to see if they have posted guidelines for you to follow and if they can provide access to printed or online materials; some cities have “design guidelines” that you must follow, especially in historic and business districts.

Many may request to see work material samples and detailed drawings from their contractor or designer. Be sure to request samples and budget for time on your shows if you need to respond to such requests.

4. Familiarize yourself with the standard installation guidelines for artificial grass and synthetic grass materials manufactured and used for lawns, gardens, and putting greens in your area, so that you can make an informed decision about which solution and supplier to choose. You can download a free copy of ASGi’s Standard Installation Guidelines at the end of the article.

Artificial grass materials are typically sold and marketed by professional installers (contractors) as “systems” of various components and materials integrated with each other to provide the final look, form, and function necessary to achieve your project goals. Just like a deck, patio, or even swimming pool is designed and specified using several different types of third-party processes, work materials, and equipment, an artificial grass installation is more than just the beautiful green leaves you see on top afterward. the job is completed.

A professional installer or designer will always consider your local site and soil, environmental and weather conditions (rain or snow) and use of the area before determining the final specification for your custom project. Without a physical site inspection and an eye on the vision of what you are trying to accomplish, it would be nearly impossible for a professional to provide you with a quote over the phone.

You can easily research the uses and download a copy of the industry standard construction guidelines for artificial turf at ASGi, the website of the Association of Synthetic Turf Installers.

5. Find a designer or contractor who is familiar with installing synthetic grass and artificial grass. Invite several professionals to your site so that you have contrast and comparison information to use to complete your decision.

Many states require builders to maintain active licenses to legally contract the installation of artificial turf products for lawns, gardens, and greens. You can check with your local license or builder exchange office for information more specific to your area or go to ASGi’s US State Contractor Licensing Board index. .

6. Ask to see your potential contractor’s local work. As with any construction project, there is as much art in the workmanship as there is in the craftsmanship of any job.

Ask for contact information about references. Take the time to personally verify your references and your workmanship, up close and personal. Organize an on-site visit of various facilities.

For business reference checks, at no cost to you, contact the Better Business Bureau; Even if a business is not a member, BBB may have information for you, as well as referrals to local licensed contractors in your area.

7. Before proceeding with any contractor, get their agreement in writing, signed and dated by both parties. Although a handshake is often considered a binding legal agreement, it is excruciatingly difficult to remember, in the heat of a dispute, who said what to whom, and literally impossible to prove. Written and executed contracts and change orders that clearly describe the work, labor, materials and services to be provided are your right under the law; do not give it right away. They also serve as a great reminder of what was intended and your proof in case there is a dispute that requires arbitration.

Many states require the licensed contractor to have general liability insurance (in the event of an accident to property or assets while at your workplace), workers’ compensation coverage (for any personal injury that may occur while works on your project) and withholding a bond (in case the contractor defaults and does not complete the work).

You have every right to request to see the verification of these insurance policies and any licenses required by law. The name on the contractor’s license must match the business or personal name of the licensee, the insurance policies, the contract, and who you are paying. No one is allowed to “borrow” or “lend” a license.

8. Set a budget: Professionally installed projects will cost 40-60% more than do-it-yourself projects for valid reasons.

Not only do professionals bring the experience and knowledge, they also bring the right people, electrical equipment, tools and materials to get the job done right the first time.

Don’t compromise on the success of your project, find the right construction partner for you and make a fair deal based on your budget and whatever makes it comfortable for you to invest in your dream project. An experienced artificial grass installer will bring the right tools and materials and the experience and knowledge to properly and professionally install your project for your enjoyment.