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To DIY or Not to DIY? Can I Figure Out the Cost On My Own?

Navigating the Sunshine Turf Installation Process


At Sunshine Turf, we understand that the prospect of having a synthetic grass expert come out to your property for an estimate might seem daunting. We've all been there – the discomfort of facing aggressive sales tactics and feeling pressured to make on-the-spot decisions. We want to assure you that at Sunshine Turf, we prioritize a hassle-free experience and offer you the tools to measure your own area square footage, making the process more transparent and comfortable for you.


Measuring Your Space: To begin, we recommend using the Cam to Plan app, a convenient tool for quickly creating a drawing of your desired area. While the app may require a small investment, it proves to be an invaluable asset in providing accurate measurements. Follow the steps outlined below to generate your drawing:

  1. Download the Cam to Plan app.

  2. Capture images of your designated area.

  3. Utilize the app to create a detailed drawing.

  4. Submit the drawing to office@sunshineturf.info.


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Within 48 hours, we'll provide you with a roll layout like the one below and an estimate using our mid-level product, which is reasonably accurate given our products' narrow price range of about $0.65 per square foot. Then if you like the price, we will send you a sample box. All you have to do is let us know which one you like the best and we come install it.


Installation Options: Now, let's address the burning question: Can you install synthetic turf yourself? The answer is yes, but it's important to note that there's a substantial difference between installations carried out by our trained professionals and those done independently.


If you're up for the challenge, here's a comprehensive list of tools you'll need:

  • Flat head shovel and spade shovel

  • Wheelbarrow

  • Plastic perimeter board (opt for dense plastic)

  • Stainless steel inch-long exterior staples

  • Rebar stakes

  • Steele brackets

  • Screws

  • Base material (5-inch depth)

  • Vibratory plate compactor

  • Leveling rake

  • Hand tamper for edges

  • Air compressor

  • Staple gun and air hose

  • Carpet cincher

  • Seam tape

  • Turf adhesive

  • Carpenter's knife with a sharp blade

  • Silver marker

  • Infill

  • Sunshine Turf rolls

  • Power Broom



Step-by-Step DIY Installation Guide:

  1. Prepare the Area:


Install Perimeter Board:

a. Lay dense plastic perimeter boards around the designated area.

b. Secure with rebar steel rods every two feet with stainless steel brackets and screws.

c. Next install five inches of an angular drain base (>#57 stone) topped with a smaller angular (> #89 stone) Smooth and Compact the base material using a vibratory plate compactor.

d. Use a hand tamper to ensure edges are firmly packed in place.



Lay Turf Rolls:

a. Roll out Sunshine Turf over the prepared area making sure the pile direction all faces the same way.

b. Trim excess turf using a sharp carpenter's knife.


Seam and Adhere:

a. Use seam tape to connect multiple turf rolls.

b. Apply turf adhesive along seams for a secure bond.

Secure Turf Edges:

a. Anchor edges to the nailer perimeter board using the stainless steel staples.


Infill Application:

a. Spread infill evenly over the turf.

b. Power Broom the infill in and clean off debris.



Tip: Use a carpet cincher to secure and pull together seams.


While Sunshine Turf is committed to delivering flawless installations through our expert team, we understand the desire for a DIY approach. Whether you choose our professional services or opt for a DIY project, Sunshine Turf is here to support you on your journey to a beautiful and sustainable synthetic grass solution.


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