Lawn & Turf

Turfing

Fresh turf laid professionally for a lush, even lawn from day one.

About this service

Laying turf correctly is more about what happens underneath than the turf itself. We start with thorough ground preparation — removing old lawn, breaking up compaction, adding topsoil where needed and raking to a fine tilth before the first roll goes down. We use premium cultivated turf rather than meadow turf, sourced from specialist growers and laid within 24 hours of cutting for best establishment.

Ground Clearance

Existing lawn, weeds and debris are removed using a turf cutter or mini excavator. Perennial weed roots including couch grass and bindweed are removed by hand.

Topsoil & Levelling

We add quality screened topsoil where the existing level is too low and create consistent falls away from the house — minimum 1:80 gradient for drainage.

Rotavation & Firming

The soil is rotavated to 150 mm depth, any large stones removed, consolidated with a roller and raked to a fine, level seedbed.

Pre-turfing Feed

A slow-release pre-turf fertiliser is raked into the top 25 mm before laying — this accelerates root development in the first four to six weeks.

Premium Cultivated Turf

We use densely seeded turf from specialist growers — typically a dwarf ryegrass and fescue blend that is hard-wearing and quick to establish.

Post-Lay Watering Programme

We advise a strict watering regime for the first three to four weeks — typically twice daily in dry weather. Turf should not be walked on for six to eight weeks after laying.

Our process

A clear, professional approach on every project — so you know what to expect at every stage.

Survey & Measure

We measure the area accurately (including any awkward shapes), assess the existing ground conditions and calculate the quantity of topsoil and turf needed.

Clearance & Excavation

Old lawn and weeds are removed and the ground excavated to allow for topsoil depth. Usually 100–150 mm of topsoil is needed on bare subsoil.

Topsoil & Preparation

Topsoil is laid, spread, rotavated in and firmed. The final surface is checked for level in multiple directions and any hollows filled.

Turf Laying

Turf is delivered and laid the same or next day in staggered brick-bond rows. Joints are tight and edges are straight-cut with a half-moon edging tool.

First Cut & Handover

We return for the first cut (typically at six to eight weeks) if included in the contract, and advise on the ongoing mowing height and feed schedule.

Common questions

Practical answers to the questions we hear most often about turfing.

How soon can I walk on new turf?

Light footfall (for watering) is fine from day one but sustained use should be avoided for six to eight weeks. The turf is established when you can pull on a corner and it resists — the roots are anchoring into the soil.

What time of year is best for turfing?

Turf can be laid all year round in the UK except during hard frost or drought. Autumn and spring are the best periods — mild temperatures and natural rainfall reduce the irrigation burden.

How much topsoil do I need under turf?

A minimum of 100 mm of quality topsoil is recommended. On heavy clay or stony subsoil we typically lay 150 mm. Insufficient topsoil is the most common reason new lawns fail to establish well.

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