Services · Turf and artificial grass

Turf and artificial grass, on ground prepared properly

In short We lay natural turf and fit artificial grass in Saltash, Plymouth and across Cornwall and Devon, preparing the ground first. This page compares the two for shade, use and upkeep so you can choose before asking for a quote.

Stripe-cut turf beside a curved sandstone patio, with a slatted fence and a raised deck with a handrail
Finished back garden with grey sandstone paving, a strip of artificial lawn, a sleeper planter, fencing and a timber pergola at the far end
Close view of new turf meeting the sandstone patio edge

Underneath

The ground does the work.

Natural turf goes onto cleared, levelled soil. Artificial grass needs more underneath, so water drains through and the surface stays flat.

  1. Turf or artificial grass
  2. Laying course: fine levelled soil, or sharp sand for artificial grass
  3. Weed membrane (artificial grass only)
  4. Compacted base (artificial grass only)
  5. Existing ground, cleared and levelled
A typical build, top to bottom. The exact layers depend on your ground, and we confirm them when we have seen it.

Decide

Turf or artificial grass?

Neither is better everywhere. Think about shade, who uses the lawn, pets and how much time you want to spend on it.

Turf or artificial grass?
Natural turfArtificial grass
ShadeStruggles in deep shade and under trees.Looks the same in sun or shade.
Heavy useWears into bare patches where people walk most.Takes heavy use without bare patches.
PetsCan yellow in spots. Soft and cool underfoot.Needs rinsing to keep clean and fresh.
UpkeepMowing, feeding and watering in dry spells.Brushing, clearing leaves, the odd rinse.
Feel and wildlifeReal grass, cooler in summer, good for wildlife.Can get warm in strong sun. No mowing.

Recent lawns

Natural and artificial.

Artificial grass for a fresh, low-maintenance finish.

Our own caption for a Plymouth garden makeover, from our Facebook page. Watch the reel

Freshly laid natural turf for a vibrant, low-maintenance lawn.

Our own caption for a garden transformation, from our Facebook page. Watch the reel
A garden makeover with a new artificial lawn
Striped artificial lawn bordered by a grey patio and timber fencing
Grey patio and striped artificial lawn seen from above
Circle of turf set into a golden gravel garden behind a rendered wall

FAQ

Lawn questions

Anything else? Call 07940 259799 or send a message. We reply ourselves.

When is the best time to lay turf?

Spring and autumn are easiest, when the ground is moist and not frozen. Turf can go down at other times if it is watered well until it roots.

Why does the ground need preparing first?

A lawn is only as flat and as well drained as the ground under it. Old grass, weeds and stones come out, and the ground is levelled before anything goes down.

Is artificial grass all right with dogs?

Yes, many people choose it for that reason. It needs rinsing so it stays clean and fresh, and the base underneath has to let water through.

Can you lay a lawn and a patio together?

Yes. Many of our jobs are a patio, a lawn and the edges between them, done as one job.

Ready for a lawn you can use?

Send us photos of the garden and say turf, artificial or not sure.

Your project

Tell us about your space.

A few quick taps, then send it straight to us. Nothing goes through this website.

Rather talk? 07940 259799 · dabservices@myyahoo.com

Question 1 of 5
What would you like help with?

Pick the closest. It is fine if you are still deciding.