Using Turf in Landscaping

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 3
Unit No:
T/617/1485
Credits:
6
Guided learning hours:
50 hours

Assessment Guidance

Learning Outcome 1:

Learners will produce a booklet for a customer, which details the ground preparation that is required before natural and artificial turf can be installed. The booklet will illustrate the use of artificial products and their benefits for a customer against natural products.

Learning Outcome 2:

Learners will produce an installation guide for turf products to include the edging details. The guide will cover the installation techniques for both turf systems. Learners will cover the finishing details for the turf e.g. rolling and sanding.

Learning Outcome 3:

Learners will produce a leaflet for a customer handover which details the maintenance that will be required to maintain both types of surfaces. The time period that should be covered is over one annual period. The sustainability of the use of artificial turf should be examined in terms of a promotional leaflet for landscaping marketing.

Aim

Understand the different types of turf used in landscape construction, understand the installation of natural and artificial turf and recognise the environmental impact of these.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.

Be able to carry out preparation for turfing.

Indicative Content

Ground Preparation: Artificial Turf
• excavation
• weed killer
• install edges
• level off
• hardcore installation
• compaction

Ground Preparation: Natural Turf
• excavation
• topsoil preparation
• compaction

Benefits of turf
Natural
• sustainable product
• natural feel
• biodiversity
• free draining
• soft surface

Artificial
• colour fast
• doesn’t require cutting
• free draining
• all weather surface
• doesn’t require watering

• pet friendly

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Produce a method statement for ground preparation.

  • 1.2

    Evaluate the use of artificial turf versus natural turf.

  • 1.3

    Prepare a given area for turf.

2.

Be able to carry out the installation of turf.

Indicative Content

Weed Membrane
• rolling out
• cutting and jointing
• securing in place
• function of membrane

Perimeter Treatments
• edging kerbs
• timber battens
• paving

Turf Installation: Natural
• rolling
• cutting
• jointing
• watering

Turf Installation: Artificial
• confirm pile direction
• rolling
• cutting
• jointing
• fixing u pins
• adhesive bonding as required
• finishing sanding

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Describe the installation of weed membranes for artificial turf.

  • 2.2

    Describe the treatment of perimeters for artificial turf.

  • 2.3

    Construct a turfed area to a given specification for natural and artificial samples.

3.

Be able to maintain turf surfaces.

Indicative Content

Maintenance Techniques: Natural
• top dressing
• drainage spiking
• cutting
• lawn feeding
• lawn weeding

Maintenance Techniques: Artificial
• brushing – leaf removal
• chemical cleaners
• sand dressing.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Explain the maintenance techniques required for turf surfaces.

  • 3.2

    Undertake maintenance techniques for turf surfaces.

  • 3.3

    Evaluate the sustainability of artificial turf installation.