SECURE EDGES

1. In many cases, securing the edges or borders is not necessary and an optional installation activity. The weight of the infill alone is enough to keep the turf in intimate contact with the base.
2. If an exposed edge is a concern (because of a curious animal, high activity at the border, etc.), the edges can be secured in a number of ways:
• Landscape spikes.
  Simply hammer landscape spikes, timber spikes, sod staples, etc. into the edge at desired intervals. Afterwards, more edge trimming may be necessary.
• Nailer Board.
  When installed next to a concrete or asphalt curb, a nailer board / synthetic lumber can be installed (preferably in NUMERAL II, AREA PREPERATION) by nailing the board to the curb with concrete nails. The turf can then be nailed into the top of the installed nailer board with a landscape nail. Afterward, more edge trimming of the turf may be necessary.
• Buried Edges.
  Excavate a narrow trench around the border, deep enough to bury the exposed edge of the turf. Tuck the turf's edge into the trench (additional trimming of excess turf may be necessary). Backfill the excavated soil against the buried turf, and compact. The edge can then be hidden with mulch, straw, rock, etc.

FINISH INFILL INSTALLATION

1. If a secured edge was installed, it will probably be necessary to add infill around the border. Use the technique described in INFILL INSTALLATION.

CARE & MAINTENANCE

1. Rain is your best cleanser. Rainfall gently cleans the turf fibers of dust, pollen and airborne pollutants in way that is difficult to duplicate in any other fashion. In areas where rainfall is scarce--or during prolonged periods of drought--an occasional water flush is beneficial to soak and thus cleanse the turf system. This procedure is recommended for all turf systems.
2. Most "stains" on polyolefin fields can be removed with water or soap and water. The first rule is promptness. It is much easier to clean up a fresh spill before it has time to dry and harden. Remove any solid or putty-like deposit promptly using a dull knife or spatula-like tool. Blot up excess liquids with a stack of towels, cloth or paper. Dry absorbent clay-based materials, such as cat litter absorbers ("kitty litter") can be very useful. Such dry absorbers can be swept or vacuumed up.
3. Fill in "Hollow" spots. These are areas in the synthetic turf where the level of rubber may be slightly lower than the surface overall. They are generally discovered over several weeks after the initial placement of rubber in the turf. These areas generally cannot be seen but can be "felt" when walking on the turf--they feel like depressions or low spots on the surface.
4. Cross brushing your filled synthetic turf is the single most effective way to keep it in top form. Brushing a filled turf field keeps the fill uniform and suitably embedded in the fibers rather than on the tips of the surface. "Cross brushing" means that all brushing activities, no matter what kind of equipment is used, takes place against the grain, nap or sweep of the turf fibers. (All synthetic turf is made with a slight grain.)

If you would like to see installation videos on how to install synthetic turf, you can view them on the SYNLawn website.

As you use your AstroLawn®, the fibers will bloom and take on an even more grass like appearance. From time to time, you may elect to change the layout of your turf. Don't worry; adding or removing turf is as easy as installing it by simply using the techniques previously listed. For additional questions, we may be reached at 800.723.8873. Enjoy your AstroLawn®.

Back to Learn About The Perfect Lawn