How To Lay Artificial Grass On A Balcony
Posted on: 28 July 2015
Just because you don't have a garden, doesn't mean you can't enjoy a splash of green to brighten up your outside space. If your apartment has a large balcony, why not invest in a 'lawn' using artificial turf? It's a relatively straightforward procedure, and the end result could give you many years of enjoyment, as well as adding value to your property. Here's a brief guide to installing an artificial lawn on your balcony.
Some things to consider before you begin
Artificial turf comes on a roll just like carpet. You can lay it on any flat surface: concrete, wood, paving or brick. Provided the surface of your balcony is flat, you can lay the grass directly onto it. If the surface is uneven, you'll need to place a foam underlay down first.
It's important that the area you're intending to use for your 'lawn' has good drainage. Although water won't actually damage the artificial grass, continual pooling underneath it can eventually weaken the backing and underlay, if you're using underlay. Before you lay the turf, make sure that the area you've chosen can drain.
Think about the look you want to achieve. A great effect can be created on large balconies by laying a 'lawn' on just part of the available space in a square or circle. This is more aesthetically pleasing than one large expanse of green, and allows you to break the balcony up into different areas. You might choose to have an area dedicated to pots of flowers, another for eating and barbecuing, and one for sunbathing, for example. Artificial grass is quite expensive, and this strategy will save you money.
Installing artificial grass on a balcony
Your supplier will provide everything you need to do the job yourself, including specialist seaming tape and glue. A glue gun is a worthwhile investment if you don't already have one, as is a sharp carpet knife. Both these items are available from your local DIY store.
Begin by sweeping the area so that it's completely free of dust, dirt, and debris. It's a good idea to wash the balcony down too, but make sure it's completely dry before you lay the lawn.
Measure the area to be transformed into your lawn and cut the grass to size. If you're using several pieces of grass, ensure that the nap is running in the same direction. Ideally, you want the nap running towards your main view point for the best effect. The pile will initially be flattened where the grass has been compressed on the roll, but this will soon lift once the air and sun get to it.
It's a good idea to allow the grass to 'acclimatise' overnight before you begin to fasten it down so that it doesn't crease.
Now, you'll need to butt the pieces of grass together, making sure that the nap is running in the same direction and that the edges are completely straight. Place a piece of seaming tape against the reverse of the overlapping edges of the pieces. Press it down firmly to form an invisible join.
Once you're happy that the tape is secure, run two lines of glue parallel along the underside of the join and press firmly into place.
All you need to do to fix the grass in place on your balcony is to glue it all around the perimeter, making sure that gaps are left in the beading for drainage.
Finish off by brushing the grass with a stiff broom to lift the pile.
In conclusion
Artificial grass makes a durable, attractive and long-lasting feature on your balcony. You can either fit it yourself by using a few basic DIY skills or by hiring a remodelling contractor to do the job for you. For more information, contact a business such as Australian Lawn Wholesalers.
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