What a hybrid artificial turf install includes

Hybrid means you split the scope. A contractor handles heavy equipment and the foundation. You finish the turf. Done right, you get durable results without paying for tasks you can confidently do yourself.

Typical scope split

  • Pro handles: site prep, demolition, grading, drainage planning, excavation, base import, compaction, perimeter edging, haul off, and optional permits.
  • You handle: turf layout and orientation, trimming, seaming, fastening, infill, power brooming, and final grooming.

When a hybrid approach makes sense

  • Flat to moderate slopes with straightforward shapes.
  • Landscape turf, pet runs, side yards, play areas, and rooftops with clear access.
  • You are comfortable with measuring, cutting, and following detailed instructions.

Consider a fuller pro scope for complex putting greens, heavy shade with soft soils, steep slopes, intricate borders, or high-traffic commercial areas.

Step-by-step plan for a reliable hybrid install

1. Define specs and scope in writing

  • Base: 3 to 4 inches of compacted, well-graded crushed stone or class II road base, sloped 1 to 2 percent away from structures.
  • Compaction: firm and uniform. No movement underfoot, no birdbaths after watering.
  • Drainage: plan for water exit paths. Use perforated pipe or drains if required by site.
  • Edging: bender board, pavers, or concrete curbing set to finish grade.
  • Weed control: geotextile fabric as specified for your region and soil.

2. Have the contractor complete foundation work

  • Call 811 before digging.
  • Deliverables to request: clean, level base at target elevation, consistent slope, firm edges, and a tidy site ready for turf.

3. DIY finishing workflow

  1. Dry-fit rolls with the grain in the same direction.
  2. Trim edges with a sharp utility knife. Leave a slight overhang at borders for final scribe cuts.
  3. Seams: butt factory edges, then use seam tape and turf adhesive. Avoid over-adhesive. Keep fibers free of glue.
  4. Fasten: 5 to 6 inch turf nails or U-pins around the perimeter every 4 to 6 inches, and in the field every 12 to 18 inches as needed. Do not pin through seams.
  5. Infill: apply 1 to 2 pounds per square foot for landscape turf, more for high-traffic or tall pile. Use kiln-dried sand or coated sand per product guidance.
  6. Power broom between infill lifts to stand fibers upright and settle material evenly.
  7. Final cut and tuck at edges. Brush one last time for a clean finish.

Quality checklist before you call it done

  • Surface drains freely with no puddles after a hose test.
  • Seams are tight, straight, and visually minimal from normal viewing distance.
  • Edges are secure and clean with no gaps or lifted fibers.
  • Infill depth is even, fibers are upright, and foot feel is consistent.

Tools and materials for the DIY portion

  • Tools: utility knife with extra blades, straightedge, turf kicker or stretcher, hand tamper, hammer, power broom, drop spreader, push broom, tape measure, chalk line, and leaf blower.
  • Fasteners: 5 to 6 inch turf nails or U-pins, seam tape, and turf adhesive.
  • Infill: kiln-dried silica sand or coated sand per turf spec. Zeolite or antimicrobial infill for pet areas if desired.
  • Safety: gloves, knee pads, eye protection, dust mask when applying infill.

Cost levers and how to save without sacrificing performance

  • Ask for a base-only contract plus a materials package. You avoid full-service labor while getting pro-grade base and the exact turf and infill you want.
  • Keep roll widths aligned to reduce seams and waste. Efficient layout saves material cost.
  • Simplify edges. Continuous borders and gentle curves reduce cutting time and waste.
  • Stage a single delivery for base materials to reduce trucking fees.

Installed pricing varies by region, access, disposal needs, and turf type. A clean split scope lets you control labor spend while keeping the foundation professional.

Warranty and risk control

  • Product warranty: typically tied to the turf itself. Follow care and infill requirements.
  • Labor warranty: usually applies only to the contractor’s portion. Confirm in writing how a split scope is covered.
  • Documentation: keep photos of base prep, seam work, and infill coverage. Save receipts for materials and adhesives.

Ask your FusionTurf dealer how their warranty applies to hybrid installs and what inspections they offer for peace of mind.

Special cases and pro tips

Pets

  • Use permeable base and ensure slope to a drain or daylight.
  • Choose antimicrobial or coated infill and consider a deodorizing layer if needed.

Putting greens

  • Hybrid option: have a pro shape the base, set cups, and complete critical seams. You handle fringe, infill, and grooming.

High rainfall or clay soils

  • Add drainage fabric and consider a drainage layer or perforated pipe per site conditions.

Get started with FusionTurf

  • Request a base-only quote and a matching materials list.
  • Schedule a site walk to lock specs, slopes, and edge details.
  • Order turf cut plans to minimize seams and waste.
  • Ask for our hybrid install checklist so your finish work hits the mark.