What drives your putting green timeline
The clock starts and stops with site conditions and scope. The tighter the access, the heavier the contouring, and the bigger the surface, the more time you should expect. Here are the primary drivers.
- Square footage: More area means more excavation, base, edging, turf, and finishing.
- Access and hauling: Skid steer access speeds everything up. Narrow gates or stairs move dirt and stone by wheelbarrow and add hours or days.
- Contours and cut lines: Breaks, fringe, chipping zones, and multiple seams require precision that adds labor.
- Base and drainage: Poor native soil or added drainage features increase prep time but improve performance.
- Weather and season: Rain can pause base work and infill. Frozen ground slows excavation.
- Crew size and experience: A 3 to 4 person pro crew compresses the schedule without cutting corners.
Typical durations by size and complexity
- 200 to 400 sq ft, light contour: 1 to 2 days.
- 400 to 800 sq ft, moderate breaks, 2 to 3 cups: 2 to 3 days.
- 800 to 1,200 sq ft, multiple cups and fringe: 3 to 5 days.
- 1,200+ sq ft or heavy contouring: 5 to 7 days.
Timelines assume standard suburban access, no major rain, and materials on site.
Step by step installation flow
Pre-build planning and lead time
- Site visit and design: Confirm size, shape, breaks, cup count, and fringe. 30 to 60 minutes.
- Scheduling: Typical start availability is 1 to 3 weeks. Peak season can be longer.
- Utilities and approvals: Call 811 where required. HOAs rarely need formal permits for landscaping but may require plan sign-off.
Day 1: Layout, excavation, base delivery
- Strip organics, rough grade, and set elevations.
- Place and spread base aggregate.
Day 2: Shaping, edging, and compaction
- Fine grade, set contours, install edging where specified.
- Wet and compact base to a tight, smooth surface.
Day 3: Turf layout and seaming
- Roll out turf, align grain, make precision cuts.
- Glue or seam tape joins, then weight seams to cure.
Day 4: Cups, infill, brushing, and rolling
- Core and set cups at design locations.
- Apply infill to dial stimp speed. Power brush and roll for consistency.
Day 5: Final tune and walkthrough
- Check seams, edges, surface speed, and drainage.
- Clean site and share care tips.
Smaller projects often combine steps and finish in 1 to 3 days. Larger or highly contoured builds can add a day or two.
How to keep your project on schedule
- Clear access: Open gates and remove obstacles. If possible, provide a 48 inch path for equipment.
- Decide contours early: Lock in cup count, breaks, and fringe width before mobilization.
- Plan drainage: Approve any needed French drains or catch basins in advance.
- Stage power and water: Provide an outdoor outlet and hose bib for compaction and cleanup.
- Weather buffer: Allow a one day cushion during rainy seasons.
Access, equipment, and neighbors
Gate widths under 36 inches usually prevent compact machinery. Expect more hand work and added time. Communicate working hours and parking plans with neighbors to avoid delays.
Weather and season impacts
- Rain: Light rain slows compaction and infill. Heavy rain can pause work for a day while the base dries.
- Heat: Hot days speed turf relaxation and seam curing, which can help timeline.
- Cold: Frozen or saturated soils extend excavation and compaction time.
DIY vs pro timeline
Pro crews deliver predictable results fast, with quality compaction, clean seams, and tuned speeds. DIY timelines can stretch to several weekends depending on tools, helpers, and learning curve.
Scheduling expectations nationwide
- Lead time to start: 1 to 3 weeks typical. 2 to 4 weeks in spring and early summer.
- Workday length: 6 to 9 hours on site depending on light and weather.
- Change orders: Adding cups, fringe, or contour after base is set can add 0.5 to 1.5 days.
What to expect from FusionTurf installers
- On-time starts, daily progress, and no shortcuts on base work.
- Respect for your property with protected surfaces and daily cleanup.
- Clear communication on timing, weather calls, and any scope changes.
Ready for a precise timeline for your yard
Get a site-specific schedule and start date. Contact FusionTurf to book a quick assessment.
