A great artificial lawn does not just come from choosing the right grass. It also depends on how well the area is prepared and installed. If the base is uneven, drainage is poor, joins are visible or the edges are not secured properly, even good artificial grass can look disappointing over time.
For Perth homeowners, artificial lawn installation is a practical way to create a green, low-maintenance outdoor area that suits local conditions. This guide explains how artificial lawn installation works, what affects the price, and the common mistakes to avoid before starting your project.
Why Professional Artificial Lawn Installation Matters
Artificial lawn may look simple once it is finished, but the quality of the installation is what determines how it performs. A proper install helps the grass sit flat, drain correctly, handle foot traffic and maintain a clean finish around edges, paving, garden beds and curves.
Professional installation is especially important for larger areas, family backyards, pet zones, pool surrounds, commercial spaces and any area where joins or detailed cutting are required.
Artificial Lawn Installation Process
Every property is different, but most artificial lawn installations follow a similar process. The exact steps may vary depending on the site, access, existing surface and grass product selected.
1. Site Inspection and Measure
The first step is to inspect the area and measure the space. This helps determine how much artificial grass is required, whether joins will be needed, what base preparation is required and whether there are any access issues.
During this stage, it is useful to discuss how the area will be used. A pet area, children’s play area, pool surround and front display lawn may each require a different approach.
2. Product Selection
Once the area is understood, the next step is choosing the right artificial grass. Factors to consider include pile height, softness, colour, density, durability and whether the lawn needs to suit pets, children or high foot traffic.
Viewing samples before installation is highly recommended. Seeing the grass in person makes it much easier to choose a product that suits your home and expectations.
3. Removal of Existing Surface
Old lawn, weeds, soil, debris or unsuitable existing material may need to be removed before installation. This step is important because artificial grass needs a stable and well-prepared base.
If the old surface is not removed or prepared properly, the final lawn may become uneven, hold water, develop soft spots or show imperfections through the grass.
4. Base Preparation
Base preparation is one of the most important parts of artificial lawn installation. A suitable base helps the lawn sit evenly, drain properly and stay stable over time.
The base may involve levelling, adding suitable material, compacting the area and shaping it to suit the surrounding surfaces. The goal is to create a firm and even foundation before the artificial grass is laid.
5. Drainage Planning
Drainage is important for Perth homes, especially in pet areas, shaded spaces, courtyards and areas where water may pool. A good installation should allow water to move through and away from the surface.
Poor drainage can lead to odour, puddling, soft spots and long-term performance issues. This is one reason why professional installation is often worth it for more complex areas.
6. Laying and Cutting the Artificial Grass
Once the base is prepared, the artificial grass is rolled out, positioned and cut to fit the area. Careful cutting is needed around paving, garden beds, walls, posts, curves and pool surrounds.
This is where experience makes a difference. Clean edges and accurate cuts help the lawn look more natural and professionally finished.
7. Joining the Grass
For larger areas, more than one roll of grass may be required. Joins need to be positioned carefully so the grain direction matches and the join is as discreet as possible.
Poor joins are one of the most common signs of a low-quality installation. If the grass direction is mismatched or the join is not secured properly, it can stand out and affect the overall look of the lawn.
8. Securing the Edges
Edges are secured to help keep the artificial lawn in place. This is especially important around high-traffic areas, pets, children, paving and garden borders.
Loose edges can lift, curl or create trip points. Proper edge finishing helps the lawn look better and perform better over time.
9. Finishing and Brushing
After the grass is installed, the surface is finished and brushed to help lift the fibres. The area is checked for joins, edges, fit and overall appearance.
A final tidy-up leaves the space ready to use and gives the lawn a clean, fresh look.
How Much Does Artificial Lawn Installation Cost in Perth?
The cost of artificial lawn installation in Perth depends on the grass product, site preparation, area size and installation complexity. A simple square area with easy access will usually cost less than a larger space with curves, poor access, old lawn removal, drainage challenges or multiple joins.
Common cost factors include:
- The type and quality of artificial grass selected.
- Total square metres required.
- Whether the job is supply only or supply and install.
- Removal of existing lawn, soil, weeds or old material.
- Base preparation and compaction requirements.
- Access to the work area.
- Drainage requirements.
- Number of joins required.
- Amount of detailed cutting around edges, curves and obstacles.
- Whether the area is for pets, children, pools or heavy use.
Because every property is different, a tailored quote is the best way to understand the real cost of your artificial lawn installation.
Common Artificial Lawn Installation Mistakes
Many artificial lawn problems come from poor preparation or rushed installation. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid.
Mistake 1: Choosing Grass Based Only on Price
Cheaper grass may look appealing upfront, but it may not provide the look, feel or durability you want long term. It is better to compare products based on softness, density, pile height, backing, appearance and suitability for your space.
Mistake 2: Poor Base Preparation
The base is what supports the lawn. If it is uneven, too soft or not compacted properly, the grass can develop dips, lumps or drainage issues.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Drainage
Drainage is especially important in pet areas and enclosed courtyards. Without suitable drainage, water and odour can become a problem.
Mistake 4: Bad Joins
Visible joins can ruin the look of an otherwise good lawn. Joins should be carefully aligned, cut and secured so the grass direction matches.
Mistake 5: Incorrect Cutting Around Edges
Artificial lawn needs accurate cutting around paving, walls, posts, garden beds and curves. Gaps, rough cuts or over-cutting can make the lawn look unfinished.
Mistake 6: Not Securing the Edges Properly
Loose edges can lift over time, especially in high-use areas. This can look messy and may create a trip hazard.
Mistake 7: Using the Wrong Grass for Pets
Pet areas need practical grass and proper drainage. Choosing only based on appearance can lead to cleaning and odour issues later.
DIY vs Professional Artificial Lawn Installation
DIY installation can work for small, simple areas if you have the right tools and understand the preparation process. However, larger or more complex projects are usually better handled by professionals.
DIY may be suitable for:
- Small balconies.
- Temporary display areas.
- Simple square spaces.
- People with landscaping experience and the right tools.
Professional installation is recommended for:
- Family backyards.
- Pet areas.
- Pool surrounds.
- Large lawns.
- Commercial areas.
- Curved or detailed spaces.
- Projects requiring joins, edging and proper base preparation.
How to Prepare Before Getting a Quote
Before requesting a quote for artificial lawn installation in Perth, it helps to think about what you want from the area.
- Measure the approximate length and width of the space.
- Take photos of the area from different angles.
- Note whether old lawn, weeds, sand, soil or paving needs removal.
- Think about whether the area will be used by pets or children.
- Consider whether the area receives full sun, shade or both.
- Decide whether you want supply only or supply and install.
- Visit the showroom to compare artificial grass samples if possible.
Why Choose R2’ficial for Artificial Lawn Installation in Perth?
R2’ficial supplies and installs artificial grass for Perth homes and businesses. Our team can help you choose the right product, understand your installation requirements and provide a tailored quote based on your space.
Whether you are upgrading a backyard, replacing natural lawn, creating a pet-friendly area or improving a low-maintenance outdoor space, R2’ficial can help you get a clean, practical and professional result.
Contact R2’ficial today to request a quote for artificial lawn installation in Perth, or visit our Forrestdale showroom to compare artificial grass options in person.
FAQs About Artificial Lawn Installation in Perth
How long does artificial lawn installation take?
The installation time depends on the area size, site preparation, access and complexity. Small, simple areas may be completed faster, while larger spaces with removal, base preparation, drainage work or detailed cutting may take longer.
What is involved in artificial lawn installation?
Artificial lawn installation usually involves measuring the area, removing unsuitable existing material, preparing and compacting the base, planning drainage, laying and cutting the grass, joining sections if needed, securing edges and brushing the finished surface.
How much does artificial lawn installation cost in Perth?
The cost depends on the grass product, square metres, site access, removal work, base preparation, drainage, joins and edge detail. A tailored quote is the most accurate way to price your project.
Can artificial lawn be installed over existing grass?
Artificial lawn should generally not be installed directly over existing natural grass. The old lawn and organic material usually need to be removed so a stable base can be prepared.
Do I need drainage under artificial lawn?
Yes, drainage is important. A suitable base and installation method help water move through and away from the surface, especially in pet areas, shaded spaces and courtyards.
Is professional artificial lawn installation worth it?
Professional installation is usually worth it for larger spaces, pet areas, pool surrounds, high-traffic lawns and projects requiring joins or detailed cutting. A good installation helps the lawn look better and perform better over time.
Can R2’ficial install artificial lawn across Perth?
Yes, R2’ficial provides artificial lawn supply and installation for Perth homes and selected commercial projects. Customers can contact the team for a tailored quote based on their property and project requirements.