Artificial Turf Installation Cost Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate the material and labor costs for your artificial turf project. Enter your desired area dimensions and specific costs for turf, base, infill, and labor to get a detailed breakdown.
Project Details
Material Costs
Labor Costs
Estimated Costs
Total Area: 0 sq ft
Turf Material Cost: $0.00
Base Material Cost: $0.00
Infill Material Cost: $0.00
Edging Material Cost: $0.00
Weed Barrier Cost: $0.00
Total Materials Cost: $0.00
Total Labor Cost: $0.00
Grand Total Estimated Cost: $0.00
Understanding Your Artificial Turf Installation Costs
Artificial turf has become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and businesses looking for a low-maintenance, evergreen lawn solution. While the initial investment can be higher than traditional sod, the long-term savings on water, mowing, and fertilization often make it a cost-effective option. Our Artificial Turf Installation Cost Calculator helps you estimate the total expense for your project by breaking down the key components.
Key Components of Artificial Turf Installation Costs:
The total cost of installing artificial turf is influenced by several factors, including the size of your area, the quality of materials chosen, and labor rates in your region. Here's a breakdown of what typically goes into the estimate:
1. Artificial Turf Material
This is often the largest single cost. Turf prices vary significantly based on quality, pile height, blade shape, density, and brand. Higher-quality turf tends to look more realistic, feel softer, and last longer. Expect to pay anywhere from $2.50 to $10.00 per square foot for the turf material itself.
2. Base Material
A proper base is crucial for drainage, stability, and a smooth finish. Common base materials include decomposed granite (DG), crushed rock, or a gravel/sand mix. The depth of the base typically ranges from 3 to 6 inches, depending on drainage needs and the intended use of the area. The cost is usually calculated per cubic yard, and you'll need to factor in delivery charges.
3. Infill Material
Infill is spread between the turf blades after installation. It helps the blades stand upright, provides cushioning, adds weight to prevent wrinkles, and protects the turf backing from UV rays. Common infill types include silica sand, crumb rubber, or organic options like walnut shells. The amount needed is usually measured in pounds per square foot, with typical rates between 1.5 to 3 lbs per square foot.
4. Edging Material
Edging creates a clean, defined border for your artificial turf, separating it from other landscaping elements like flower beds, concrete, or natural grass. Options include bender board, plastic edging, concrete curbing, or metal edging. Costs are typically calculated per linear foot.
5. Weed Barrier Fabric
While artificial turf itself acts as a barrier, installing a weed barrier fabric underneath the base material provides an extra layer of protection against stubborn weeds and helps stabilize the base. This is a relatively inexpensive component but highly recommended.
6. Labor Costs
Professional installation involves site preparation (removing old grass, grading), laying the base, compacting, rolling out the turf, seaming, infilling, and final grooming. Labor costs can vary widely based on the complexity of the project, local labor rates, and the installer's experience. Expect labor to be a significant portion of the total cost, often ranging from $3.00 to $8.00 per square foot.
How to Use the Calculator:
- Enter Area Dimensions: Input the length and width of the area where you plan to install artificial turf in feet. The calculator will automatically determine the total square footage.
- Input Material Costs: Enter the estimated cost per square foot for your chosen turf, the depth and cost per cubic yard for your base material, the infill rate and cost per pound, and the cost per linear foot for edging and per square foot for weed barrier.
- Add Labor Costs: Provide an estimate for the labor cost per square foot. If you're doing a DIY project, you can set this to zero.
- Calculate: Click the "Calculate Cost" button to see a detailed breakdown of your estimated material and labor expenses, along with a grand total.
Example Calculation:
Let's consider a backyard area of 20 feet by 25 feet (500 sq ft) with the following estimates:
- Area Length: 20 feet
- Area Width: 25 feet
- Turf Cost per Sq Ft: $6.00
- Base Material Depth: 4 inches
- Base Material Cost per Cubic Yard: $50.00
- Infill Rate: 2.0 lbs per Sq Ft
- Infill Cost per Lb: $0.75
- Edging Cost per Linear Ft: $5.00
- Weed Barrier Cost per Sq Ft: $0.30
- Labor Cost per Sq Ft: $5.00
Based on these inputs, the calculator would provide an estimate similar to this:
- Total Area: 500.00 sq ft
- Turf Material Cost: $3,000.00 (500 sq ft * $6.00/sq ft)
- Base Material Cost: ~$308.64 (500 sq ft * 4 inches depth = ~6.17 cubic yards * $50/cubic yard)
- Infill Material Cost: $750.00 (500 sq ft * 2 lbs/sq ft * $0.75/lb)
- Edging Material Cost: $450.00 ((20+25)*2 linear ft * $5.00/linear ft)
- Weed Barrier Cost: $150.00 (500 sq ft * $0.30/sq ft)
- Total Materials Cost: $4,658.64
- Total Labor Cost: $2,500.00 (500 sq ft * $5.00/sq ft)
- Grand Total Estimated Cost: $7,158.64
Remember that these are estimates. Always get multiple quotes from local installers for a precise cost for your specific project.