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We have a new build home and unfortunately the soil is extremely compacted I’m guessing from machinery driving over constantly throughout the estate being built. The grass initially did grow but never was great, large debris and rocks in the soil.
We are planning to use a rotovator to loosen the soil, remove any further large debris, level out the soil that’s left and adding new rolled out turf. I have three questions that I would love some help with as we are trying to do this ourselves with little knowledge.
1. Do we need to remove the old grass that’s left before rotovating and relaying new turf? If so, what’s the best way to do this?
2. Adding a layer of soil, is it better to use screened topsoil or a mix of screened topsoil with sand mix?
3. Should we add a pre turf fertiliser to the soil before laying the new turf?
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @sf2025. It's sensational to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about laying new turf.
It definitely sounds like you're on the right track with your plan to loosen and improve the soil before laying new turf. Compacted soil is a common issue on new builds, especially when there's been a lot of heavy machinery. Starting with a clean slate will give your new lawn the best chance to thrive.
In your case, I’d recommend removing the top 100mm of soil entirely. That’ll take care of any poor-quality soil, large debris, and the existing patchy grass in one go. Starting fresh like this helps avoid ongoing problems with drainage and root growth. It's quite a large area, so if there's access I'd recommend having a professional use a mini bobcat.
Once that’s cleared, you can bring in fresh soil. Screened topsoil alone is a great option, but if your area is particularly heavy clay or still quite compact underneath, a topsoil and sand mix can improve drainage and make it easier for the turf roots to spread. You might like to speak with the Special Orders team in-store—they can help with bulk quantities delivered straight to your home.
And yes, definitely apply a pre-turf starter fertiliser just before you roll out your turf. It gives the new grass a much-needed nutrient boost to help it establish quickly. Make sure to water it in well, and keep the new turf consistently moist for the first few weeks.
Here's a helpful guide: How to lay turf.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
