What a Total Turf Installation Day Actually Looks Like, Hour by Hour

One of the things homeowners tell us after install day is that they didn't really know what to expect. So here's what a typical Total Turf installation day actually looks like, hour by hour.

7:00 AM — Crew Arrives

Our crew shows up on time. We introduce ourselves, walk the property with you briefly to confirm the scope and any last-minute details, and start unloading equipment. There's usually a truck with the turf rolls, base material if needed, and our tools.

8:00 AM — Excavation Begins

Old lawn comes out first. For a standard residential install, excavation typically takes 1–2 hours. The debris goes into our truck — we haul everything away.

10:00 AM — Base Layer

Road base goes down and gets graded to the right slope for drainage. This step takes time and it's where the quality of the finished product is really determined. Don't let a contractor rush this part.

Noon — Compaction

The base gets compacted with a plate compactor. Multiple passes in multiple directions. The goal is a surface that won't shift or settle after installation.

1:00 PM — Turf Installation

Rolls go down. Cutting and seaming happen. Edges get secured. This is the visual transformation — it goes fast once the base is right.

3:00 PM — Infill and Grooming

Infill gets swept in and brushed through the fibers. The turf gets a final grooming to stand the blades up. The yard gets cleaned up.

4:00–5:00 PM — Walk-Through

We walk the finished yard with you. We point out the seams (you shouldn't be able to find them), check the edges, answer questions. We don't leave until you're happy.

Ready to have your own installation day? Schedule a free estimate.