Laying a new turf lawn
A turf lawn is only as good as the ground underneath. The old lawn and weeds are cleared, the soil is dug or rotavated, levelled and firmed, and topsoil is added where needed before the turf goes down within a day or so of delivery. Turf is usually laid in autumn or spring, when the ground is moist and not frozen or baking, though it can be laid in summer if you can water it often. Ask whether the quote includes clearance, new topsoil and removing the waste.
Lawns on clay and chalk
Soils vary a lot across Kent. Heavy clay can stay wet and spongy in winter, then crack in a dry summer, so a lawn on clay may need drainage, sand worked into the surface or a sloping finish so water runs off. Thin soil over chalk drains fast and dries out quickly, so a deeper layer of topsoil helps new turf root. Ask each landscaper what they've seen on your street, and whether they'd suggest a drainage run or a soakaway if water sits on the lawn.
Artificial grass done properly
Artificial grass needs a firm, free-draining base. Typically the old lawn is dug out, a compacted layer of crushed stone and a finer levelling layer are laid, then a weed membrane and the grass, with edging to hold it in place. On clay, water may still sit under the base unless it's given somewhere to go. Think about what you're giving up too: artificial grass is plastic, can get warm in full sun and doesn't support wildlife the way a real lawn does. Ask about drainage, pile height and how the joins will be hidden.
Jobs we can find a landscaper for
- New turf lawns
- Lawn levelling and relaying
- Topsoil and soil preparation
- Lawn drainage on heavy ground
- Artificial grass on a free-draining base
Get a quote for turfing, lawns and artificial grass
Available across Kent
Other services
Garden design and full landscaping · Patios and paving · Decking · Fencing and gates · Planting, pergolas and raised beds