What preparation for installing new turf?

[zigger777]

Hello, 

I am after a bit of help/guidance with the side area of my house. I have had a pool installed and the day of dig it had been raining a lot (SEQ) and as a result my lawn that was there has been ripped up and covered in mulch and then so sort of little gravel. 

I am looking the the best and cheapest option to get this looking nice again. I am guessing laying new turf would be my cheapest option? and if so how to i go preparing the area to lay new turf along there. Thanks, and i also have dogs that use this section and have read that its not a good idea to sow it from seeds. 

I also have a picture that show going into the patio area, and i am open to other cheap options for that area that may help stop dirt/mud getting into the patio area along with improve drainage. 

Thanks so much

Kate

[EricL]

Hello @zigger777 

It looks like the heavy vehicles that passed through the area have compacted the soil and have left very fine gravel on the surface. I suggest removing that fine layer of gravel off the soil first and setting it aside away from your lawn area. I recommend getting the soil wet and use a Trojan All Steel Spiked Aerator to break up the compacted surface. Once the area has been prepared, I suggest following the directions set out in this guide - How To Lay Turf.

I also suggest having a look at these discussions - How to remove existing lawn and lay new turf? by @ArunM and Lawn renovation by @homeinmelbourne. 

In regards to your patio area, I suggest installing Everhard 3m EasyDRAIN Polymer Grate And Prejoined Channel. This will act as a drain point and a border to the lawn. It should reduce the amount of debris that will enter your patio area. Please note that you'll need to engage the services of a plumber to link the EasyDRAIN to your stormwater drain

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[zigger777]

Morning Eric,

Thank you so much for your reply, this has given me amazing information to get me started which is greatly appreciated. I didn't even think about installing a grate so thank you thats a great idea, plus my plumber is coming next week so perfect timing for me to get it installed in time for them to be able to link it for me  

I'm sure ill be back with more questions, but for now you have given me plenty to read and watch!  

Thanks

Kate