Backyard Turf Soccer Field | DeShayes Dream Courts

If you’ve always dreamed of having a soccer field right in your own backyard, transforming your outdoor space into a turf soccer field is not only possible but can also be an incredibly rewarding project. Whether you’re looking to have a dedicated area for practice or a space for family games, a turf soccer field can elevate your backyard to new levels of fun, fitness, and enjoyment.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to turn your backyard into the ultimate turf soccer field:

1. Planning and Design

Before diving into the project, the first step is to plan out your turf soccer field. Consider the following:

Available Space: Measure the size of your backyard. Standard soccer fields vary in size, but for a small-scale backyard field, a size of 30×50 feet can work well for a smaller field or 50×100 feet for a full-size backyard soccer pitch.
Type of Turf: There are various types of artificial turf, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon. Polyethylene is the most commonly used in residential applications because of its durability and softness, making it a great choice for soccer.
Layout: Decide on the field’s layout. You can go all out with the full soccer field design, or you could choose a smaller, more compact version that fits your available space. Don’t forget the goal area, center circle, and boundary lines.

2. Clearing and Preparing the Area

Remove Obstacles: Clear out any obstacles like trees, shrubs, rocks, or fences from the area where the turf will be installed. Make sure the ground is level, as a sloped or uneven surface can cause drainage issues and make the field harder to play on.
Ground Preparation: The soil may need some leveling. You may need to bring in some extra soil to fill in low spots and make the surface smooth and even. If there are any major bumps or holes, consider using a shovel or a rake to flatten the area.

3. Laying Down a Base Layer

For proper drainage and longevity, a good base is essential.

Compacted Gravel or Crushed Stone: A layer of compacted gravel or crushed stone is often used to provide solid support and help with drainage. This layer helps prevent puddling and uneven surfaces. The base should be at least 2-3 inches deep.
Weed Barrier: To avoid weed growth through the turf, lay down a weed barrier fabric on top of the compacted gravel. This fabric will block weeds while still allowing water to drain effectively.

4. Installing the Artificial Turf

Unroll the Turf: Once your base layer is prepared, begin unrolling the artificial turf over the area. Be sure to leave a slight overlap between the turf seams, which will be trimmed later.
Cutting the Turf: Using a utility knife, carefully trim the turf to fit the boundaries of your field. This step requires precision, as you want the turf to fit neatly into the desired area without any gaps.
Securing the Turf: After cutting, the turf should be secured to the ground with landscape staples or nails. You can place the staples every few inches around the edges to ensure it stays in place.

5. Infill Material

Artificial turf needs infill to help support the blades of grass and provide cushioning during play.

Infill Options: Common infill materials include sand, crumb rubber, or a mixture of the two. The infill helps stabilize the turf and provides the bounce and feel of real grass.
Distribute the Infill: Use a broadcast spreader to evenly distribute the infill across the entire field. Once distributed, use a broom or rake to brush the infill down into the turf to ensure the blades stand upright.

6. Marking the Field

Now comes the fun part — marking the lines!

Field Markings: Soccer fields have specific line markings, including goal areas, center circles, penalty boxes, and boundary lines. You can use outdoor paint or chalk to mark these lines.
Goals and Nets: Install a pair of goals on either end of the field. Depending on your space and budget, you can go for metal or plastic goals, but make sure they are sturdy enough for some intense action. Install a net for each goal to complete the look and function of your backyard soccer field.

7. Maintenance

One of the major advantages of artificial turf is that it’s low maintenance. However, it’s still essential to keep it in good condition.

Brush the Turf: Over time, the infill may settle and cause the turf to flatten. Use a brush to fluff up the fibers and redistribute the infill material periodically.
Clean the Surface: Clean the surface occasionally by sweeping off debris like leaves, dirt, or twigs. You can also rinse the turf with a hose to remove any accumulated dust.
Check for Damage: Inspect the turf regularly for signs of wear or damage, such as holes or areas where the seams have come apart. Small repairs can be done using turf adhesive or a patch kit.

8. Extra Features for Fun and Functionality

Lighting: Install some outdoor lights around your field if you plan on playing after sunset. LED floodlights can illuminate the entire field while being energy-efficient.
Seating and Shade: Consider adding seating, such as bleachers or picnic tables, where players and spectators can relax. If your field is in an area with lots of sun, you might also want to add some shade with a pergola or canopy.
Surrounding Landscaping: Create a beautiful border around your field with plants, shrubs, or a small fence to keep the game contained.

Conclusion

Transforming your backyard into a turf soccer field is an exciting project that can provide endless hours of fun and practice. Whether you’re an aspiring soccer star, a casual player, or just looking for a new way to stay active with friends and family, a turf field can significantly enhance your outdoor living space. With the right planning and materials, you can create a high-quality soccer field that will last for years to come. So, grab your soccer ball, lace up your cleats, and get ready for some epic games right at home! Call DeShayes Dream Courts today at 1 877 928 4653 for more information or use our intake form here.

Lean more about our turf installations at DeShayes Residential Resort Design