Remove Stones (slabs) and lay grass from garden

[ric1981]

Hi,

I am first time buyer and first time garden DIYer.

Our garden is fully paved with stones (slabs) and bricks. At the far end its paved with stones which I think is about 20 years old. I would like to get rid of the slabs (square) and lay grass lawn. When I lifted one slab and I can see sand is laid underneath as base. Between slabs there is no cement. So its just loose slabs.

Any idea how to approach this project? Unfortunately I have to do most stuff myself (or as much as possible) as I am on low budget.

Thanks

 

[sodthisforfun]

Remove as much sand as possible - it doesn't hold water, or nutrients meaning you'll be watering the grass & feeding the grass all the time and it will be weak.
Then dig down 4-5 inches, take all rubble out that is bigger than say, a matchbox and any roots you find.. Level up, cover with topsoil and then you'll be ready to lay the turf.

A lot of people cut corners with turf, but good prep is everything, imo. It's not an easy job physically and with the time it takes, just done it myself!