The part you never see and always feel: excavation, crushed stone base, compaction and slope that keep turf flat and dry.
Most turf problems start under the turf. Ripples, bumps, puddles, sinking edges and weeds poking through all trace back to a base that was rushed. A lawn of synthetic grass is only as flat and as dry as the ground it sits on, and in Middle Tennessee, with its heavy clay and heavy rain, base work deserves serious attention.
We excavate to a consistent depth, remove organic soil and soft spots, then lay crushed stone in lifts and compact each layer with a plate compactor. A final screed of finer material gives a smooth, tight surface. We set the slope so water moves to a drain, a swale or a yard edge, add a drain pipe where the ground holds water and lay a weed barrier. When the turf goes on, it sits on a firm, flat, free-draining platform.
Organic soil, roots and soft spots are removed so the base does not settle or grow weeds.
Crushed stone goes in lifts and each one is compacted. This is what keeps turf flat for years.
A gentle slope and, where needed, a drain pipe carry water away so the turf and the base dry quickly.
A weed barrier under the base helps keep growth from pushing through, while still letting water drain.
Drag the handle to compare.
BeforeAfterFlat for years.
Soft spots removed.
Firm base.
Slope and pipe.
Less growth.
Ready for turf.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
Yard situationClay Soil YardsRed Tennessee clay holds water, cracks in summer and resists roots. Here is how to build a lawn…Learn more 
Grass and turf guideBacking and Base MaterialsWhat is under the blades matters most. Here is how backing, base stone and drainage fit together.Learn more 
Yard situationSlopes and HillsidesHills are everywhere in Middle Tennessee. Here is how to hold a slope with grass, and when you…Learn more Enter your area to see turf rolls, crushed stone base, infill and seam tape to plan for.
You tell us about your yard and what you want, a new lawn, a fix for a worn one or a turf area, and we set a visit that fits your day.
We walk the property, measure each area, check sun, shade, soil and drainage and take photos of anything of note.
We explain your options for sod, turf or both, and give you a written scope with quantities, timing and clear pricing.
We mark utilities, remove old turf, set the grade, loosen and improve the soil and build the base before anything new goes down.
We lay sod in tight, staggered rows or install turf over a compacted stone base, with clean edges and tight seams.
We clean up, roll or brush the surface, walk you through the watering and care plan and set a reminder for your next check.
Often three to four inches of compacted crushed stone for lawns, and more where soils are soft or loads are heavy.
Crushed stone locks together when compacted and drains well, while sand alone can shift and hold water.
On clay or low areas, a drain pipe helps a lot. We assess the yard and recommend what is needed.
Sometimes, if it is firm, flat and well-draining. We check before we decide.
Fewer will, with a good barrier and base. Occasional seeds that land on top can be pulled or sprayed.
Artificial TurfA green lawn without the mowing, watering or mud: a properly built base, tight seams, clean edges and…Explore 
Lawn DrainageWet spots, standing water and soggy corners fixed with grading, drains and the right path for water to…Explore 
Grading and Site PrepThe foundation of a good lawn: smooth grade, correct slope, loose soil and drainage that carries water away…Explore 
Turf RemovalOld, flattened, smelly or worn-out turf lifted and hauled away, with the base checked and ready for new…Explore Tell us about the project and we will call you back to talk it through.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
