With irrigation restrictions in place across Denver this summer, homeowners are being encouraged to take a closer look at how they use water outdoors. It’s a great time to consider transitioning to water-free landscaping solutions that not only align with local guidelines, but also help reduce maintenance, lower utility costs, and create a more sustainable yard. 

🧱 1. Plan & Measure 

• Measure your area (length × width)  
• Order ~10% extra turf for cuts and waste  
• Plan drainage (very important in places like Denver with freeze/thaw cycles)  

🚜 2. Remove Existing Surface 

• Strip out grass, weeds, rocks, and debris  
• Excavate 3–4 inches deep (sometimes 4–6″ for heavy-use areas or poor soil)  

🧵 3. Install Weed Barrier 

• Lay down a high-quality geotextile fabric 
• Prevents weeds from growing through the turf  

🪨 4. Build the Base (MOST IMPORTANT STEP) 

• Add Class 6 road base or crushed granite  
• Install in lifts (2″ at a time)  
• Compact with a plate compactor 

👉 Target: 

• Total base depth: 3–4 inches 
• Compaction: very firm (no footprints when you walk on it)  
• 💡 Slight slope (1–2%) away from your house helps with drainage 

📏 5. Add Bedding Layer 

• Spread ½–1 inch of decomposed granite (DG) or fine crusher dust  
• Lightly compact and screed smooth  

✂️ 6. Lay the Turf 

• Roll out artificial grass  
• Let it sit in the sun for 30–60 minutes to relax wrinkles  
• Make sure all blades face the same direction  

🔗 7. Seam Multiple Pieces (if needed) 

• Use seam tape + turf adhesive 
• Press firmly and let cure  

🔨 8. Secure the Edges 

• Use 6–7″ landscape nails or spikes 
• Space every 6–8 inches along edges 
• Also pin seams and high-traffic areas  

🪶 9. Add Infill 

• Spread silica sand or antimicrobial infill 
• Typical: 1–2 lbs per sq ft 
• Brush in with a stiff broom or power broom  

👉 Infill helps: 

• Keep blades upright  
• Add weight  
• Improve durability  

🧹 10. Final Grooming 

• Brush turf against the grain to fluff fibers  
• Hose lightly to settle infill  

💰 Typical Cost (Colorado Range) 

• DIY: $5–$9/sq ft 
• Installed: $10–$18/sq ft 

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Skipping proper compaction → leads to dips and uneven surface  
• Not adding enough base → poor drainage, sinking  
• Wrong infill → turf looks flat quickly  
• Poor seams → visible lines  

🧠 Pro Tips (from a construction standpoint) 

• In clay-heavy soils (common around Aurora), go thicker on base (4–6″)  
• Install edging (metal or bender board) for clean borders  
• For pets: use antimicrobial infill + rinse system  
• Avoid installing directly on concrete unless you add drainage padding