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Pins vs Glue: Which Method Is Best for Installing Artificial Grass?
When planning how to install artificial grass, one of the biggest decisions is how to secure it: glue or pins? Both have unique advantages, and your choice can affect the longevity, look, and ease of maintenance for your new lawn. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each method to help you make the right call for your project.
Using Pins to Install Artificial Grass
Artificial grass fixing pins (also called lawn nails or U-pins) are a traditional, widely used option for securing turf to a soil base.
✅ Benefits of Pins
- Stability: Pins anchor the grass well, reducing lift and shifting.
- Flexible for DIY: Pins are forgiving and make it easier to make changes later on.
- Cost-effective: Pins are generally cheaper than glue and quicker to install.
⚠️ Drawbacks of Pins
- Visibility: In short pile grass, pin heads can sometimes be seen if not placed properly.
- Trip hazard: Poorly inserted pins may stick up above the surface, especially if not hammered flush.
Using Glue to Install Artificial Grass
Glue for artificial grass is ideal when laying turf onto hard surfaces like concrete, decking, or paving. It’s also a reliable method when working over compacted sub-bases such as Type 1 or granite dust, which offer a firm, smooth foundation that holds adhesive well and promotes drainage.
✅ Benefits of Glue
- Seamless finish: Glue leaves no visible fixings and delivers a clean, professional look.
- Enhanced durability: Ideal for high-footfall areas — glued turf resists movement over time.
- Weed barrier: Glue seals the edges tightly, preventing weed growth through joins.
⚠️ Drawbacks of Glue
- Harder to change: Once glued, repositioning or replacing turf sections can be tricky.
- Higher material cost: Adhesive, joining tape, and tools raise the installation cost slightly.
So, Pins or Glue — Which Should You Use?
Best Use Cases for Pins
Pins work best for:
- DIY projects where flexibility is important
- Soil or aggregate bases
- Domestic gardens with minimal foot traffic
Best Use Cases for Glue
Glue is ideal for:
- High-traffic or commercial areas
- Hard surfaces like concrete or decking
- Large or complex turf installations
Pro Tip: Use Both Methods
For the most secure finish, many installers glue the seams and use pins around the perimeter for reinforcement.
Conclusion: Get the Perfect Finish with the Right Fixing Method
When deciding between glue or pins for your artificial grass installation, consider your base surface, budget, and expected foot traffic. Both methods work — and combining them often provides the most secure result.
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