Artificial Grass Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of your artificial grass project, including materials and installation, with our easy-to-use calculator. Simply enter your project dimensions and material costs to get a detailed breakdown.
Understanding Artificial Grass Installation Costs
Artificial grass, also known as synthetic turf, offers a low-maintenance, water-saving, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to natural lawns. While the upfront cost can be higher, many homeowners find the long-term savings on water, mowing, and fertilization make it a worthwhile investment.
Key Components of Artificial Grass Cost:
- Artificial Grass Material: This is the turf itself. Prices vary significantly based on quality, pile height, blade shape, density, and backing material. Higher quality grass often looks more realistic and lasts longer.
- Installation Labor: Professional installation involves site preparation (removing old lawn, grading), laying down a base, installing the weed barrier, cutting and seaming the turf, applying infill, and securing the edges. Labor costs can be a significant portion of the total project.
- Base Material: A proper base is crucial for drainage and stability. This typically consists of compacted aggregate (like crushed granite or decomposed granite) and sometimes a layer of sand.
- Weed Barrier: A permeable fabric laid beneath the base material to prevent weeds from growing through the turf.
- Infill Material: Applied after the turf is laid, infill (e.g., silica sand, crumb rubber, or specialized antimicrobial infills) helps the blades stand upright, provides ballast, and protects the turf's backing from UV rays.
- Edging Material: Used to create a clean, defined border for the artificial grass, preventing it from lifting and providing a finished look. Options include bender board, concrete curbing, or metal edging.
- Waste Factor: When cutting and fitting artificial grass rolls, there will inevitably be some waste. A typical waste factor of 5-10% is often added to the total area to ensure enough material is purchased.
Factors Influencing Your Project Cost:
- Area Size and Shape: Larger areas generally have a lower per-square-foot cost for materials and labor. Complex shapes with many cuts will increase waste and labor time.
- Grass Quality: Premium turf with higher density and realistic textures will cost more per square foot.
- Site Preparation: If your existing area requires extensive grading, removal of old landscaping, or significant drainage improvements, labor costs will increase.
- Accessibility: Projects in hard-to-reach areas may incur higher labor costs due to the difficulty of transporting materials.
- Regional Labor Rates: Installation costs vary by geographic location.
- Additional Features: Features like putting greens, pet systems (with enhanced drainage and odor control), or integrated lighting will add to the overall cost.
How to Use This Calculator:
Measure the length and width of the area where you plan to install artificial grass in feet. Enter these dimensions into the calculator. Then, input the estimated costs per square foot for the grass, installation, base material, weed barrier, and infill. Also, enter the cost per linear foot for edging and a waste factor percentage (typically 5-10%). Click "Calculate Cost" to get a detailed breakdown of your estimated project expenses.
Example Scenarios:
Example 1: Small Backyard Patio (10 ft x 8 ft)
- Area Length: 10 feet
- Area Width: 8 feet
- Artificial Grass Cost per Sq. Ft.: $4.00
- Installation Cost per Sq. Ft.: $5.50
- Base Material Cost per Sq. Ft.: $1.20
- Weed Barrier Cost per Sq. Ft.: $0.20
- Infill Material Cost per Sq. Ft.: $0.60
- Edging Material Cost per Linear Ft.: $2.50
- Waste Factor: 5%
- Estimated Total Cost: ~$1,100 – $1,300
Example 2: Medium-Sized Lawn (30 ft x 20 ft)
- Area Length: 30 feet
- Area Width: 20 feet
- Artificial Grass Cost per Sq. Ft.: $4.75
- Installation Cost per Sq. Ft.: $6.25
- Base Material Cost per Sq. Ft.: $1.60
- Weed Barrier Cost per Sq. Ft.: $0.25
- Infill Material Cost per Sq. Ft.: $0.80
- Edging Material Cost per Linear Ft.: $3.20
- Waste Factor: 7%
- Estimated Total Cost: ~$8,500 – $9,500
Estimated Project Costs:
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