The average price of artificial grass is $5,124, but the majority of homeowners spend between $2,941 and $7,491, or $5 to $20 per square foot.
Costs vary depending on where artificial turf is installed and the materials you use, but in either case, you'll spend less time maintaining your lawn. Instead of mowing your yard on Saturday, spend the day relaxing in it.
Cost Factors for Artificial Turf
Although the grass is always green, the price is not always the same. There are many variables that determine the ultimate cost of the project, and artificial turf is not a one-size-fits-all answer. This is a detailed breakdown.
Labor
Depending on the size of the yard and the quantity of excavation required, labor charges might range from $3 to $9 per square foot. The cost of labor will increase as the job becomes more complex.
Amount of Yard
Stores either offer artificial grass by the roll or linear foot, with prices ranging from $2 to $8 per square foot. The price will increase as you need more turf for your project.
Shape of Yard
It will cost more to cut curves or fit turf into an irregular location, like between individual pavers, because artificial grass is normally offered in squares or rectangular rolls. Your overall labor costs can increase by an additional $1 to $3 per square foot as a result.
Location
Since some locations require specific installation and materials, prices vary depending on where you wish to install your fake grass. Installing grass on rooftops, stairways, pool areas, and concrete will cost more than installing it in a typical backyard.
Brand
Brands that sell higher-end turf can be several dollars per square foot more expensive.
Turf Substance
Materials ranging from $2 to $6 per square foot can be used to create synthetic grass. The most expensive alternative is heat-resistant, highly durable nylon, whereas polyethylene turf is typically less expensive.
Blade Shape
Turf blades come in a variety of forms that are designed to resemble actual grass. Others are stiffer and more durable, while some are softer and feel amazing on the foot. Spending more on heat-resistant, highly durable blade types (such W-shaped blades) than on softer, less resilient blades is to be expected (like S-shaped blades).
Base Material
Installing a base material is necessary if you don't want your artificial turf to develop creases, bumps, or potential floods. Artificial grass sub-bases come in a variety of styles and pricing ranges. Decomposed granite is most frequently chosen by homeowners because of its excellent drainage capabilities. Spend between $0.30 and $0.70 per square foot as a guide.
Infill
Infill gives your fake grass a springy padding under your feet, shields it from the sun, and keeps the blades bouncy. The most common infill materials are silica sand or crumb rubber, although more expensive options include cooling, anti-odor, and antibacterial infill.
Costs of Setting Up and Cleaning Up
Excavating the area is a necessary step in the installation preparation for your contractor. $50 to $200 per cubic yard is what this costs. When the project is finished, they will also need to clean up, which involves getting rid of old grass, dirt, and building materials. Per cubic yard, cleaning normally costs between $1 and $15.
Costs of Artificial Grass by Type
Artificial grass comes in three different varieties. The least expensive option may save you a few bucks per square foot, but it may not be the greatest grass for the area. By selecting fake grass that is resilient enough for your lifestyle, you'll save money on long-term upkeep and repairs (and your pets).
Synthetic grass made of nylon costs between $5 and $6 per square foot. Although this more expensive material provides stronger strength and keeps its shape even when subjected to intense foot activity, it can feel a little odd. If you live somewhere with hot summers, you might want to think about using nylon because it typically withstands intense heat better than other materials.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene costs about $2 to $6 per square foot. If you require artificial turf for sports, polypropylene is a fantastic solution. Even though it is sturdy for cleats and golf clubs, it nevertheless has the appearance and feel of real, soft grass.
Polyethylene
The cheapest alternative is polyethylene, which costs between $2 and $4 per square foot. It's recommended to keep this type of grass out of locations that receive a lot of foot traffic or intense heat because it's also the least resilient.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Artificial Grass?
Installing artificial grass yourself might run you anything from $2,000 to $4,000. Many homeowners find the procedure to be extremely straightforward, and this is substantially lower than the national average.
Although artificial turf spreads out like a rug, it can be challenging to assemble the pieces without gaps, secure the grass, and set up adequate drainage so your yard doesn't flood. Many homes seek assistance from landscapers as a result.
Cost of Do-It-Yourself Installation vs. Hiring a Contractor
If you do it yourself, the total cost of the artificial grass and the tools and materials will be about $650.
The cost of labor alone, if you use a local turf installation professional, ranges from $3 to $9 per square foot. In other words, if you perform the job well, DIYing could save you a lot of money, especially if your yard is huge or strangely shaped. Uneven turf, water damage, and flooding can all result in expensive repairs.
Price of Typical Add-Ons
Some homeowners decide to roll out a sizable piece of artificial turf on their patio and install it like a carpet. That won't improve your landscaping long-term, while it might appear beautiful in the short term. You're going to need to install some add-ons if you want longevity.
Irrigation
Make sure your artificial turf has the necessary irrigation in order to avoid pooling. A sub-base made of decomposed granite can be helpful, but you might also want to set up a drainage system for the fake grass. For a yard inlet, the cost of landscape drainage can be as low as $100 or as much as $2,000 for an underground downspout.
Weed Fence
Per square foot, landscaping fabric costs $0.40 to $0.80. This acts as a weed barrier to stop weeds from growing through your artificial turf and causing damage.
Edging
Artificial grass edging alternatives are available to add structure and stop ground erosion. While stone edging can cost up to $5 per linear foot, flexible edging is less than $1.
Three Strategies for Cheaper Artificial Turf
Want the neighborhood's greenest grass without paying the price? The price of fake grass is somewhat flexible, particularly if you shop around online or buy your grass in bulk. Here are some suggestions to help you cut installation costs for artificial grass.
1. Perform Your Own Setup
By doing your preparation in advance, you could be able to cut down on labor costs by as much as $3 to $5 per square foot and save time when it comes to laying down the turf.
You may usually take care of the following in advance:
- Getting rid of the top 2 inches of soil.
- Removing current weeds and installing weed-control membranes.
- Gravel is added, then compacted to form an even surface.
- Adding sand on top to smooth out any ridges created by the gravel.
2. Opt for Cost-Effective Materials
Although adopting less expensive materials in low-traffic areas can result in greater long-term maintenance costs for the lawn, you can save money by doing so. When selecting turf, sub-base, infill, or edging, avoid expensive labels and choose instead for reputable, budget-friendly manufacturers.
3. Make Use of Reclaimed or Recycled Turf
Turf is readily recovered and reclaimed as it is essentially just plastic. Recycled turf is more cost-effective than new turf.
