5 Essential Cost Calculations for Artificial Turf
What costs more in the long run – artificial turf or a real lawn?
We’ve compiled a few ways to compare the cost of installing and maintaining artificial turf with the ongoing expenses of a natural lawn. We’ve listed 5 essential calculations when deciding to install artificial turf grass below.
Artificial Turf Cost vs. Real Lawn
There are many considerations that go into the decision to use turf in your outdoor landscape. Many people love the lush, life-like look and low maintenance, but is it really more cost-effective than a natural lawn? A few things to consider:
1. Installation Costs
Artificial Turf– The installation process for fake grass is multi-step. First, the area needs to be measured and a design plan put in place. Next, the natural grass will need to be removed and fillers will go in to ensure a smooth surface. Last, the turf is installed and handled to ensure it is seamless and life-like. Installation prices range from $8-$14 per square foot. Prices depends on the turf you choose and the prep-work needed in the area it will be installed.
Once installed, our artificial turf is backed by a 15-year warranty. Which means minimal maintenance and costs for at least 15 years.
Real Grass– Real grass is much cheaper to install ranging anywhere from .50 cents to a dollar per square foot. It will require watering upon install and to maintain, fertilizing, mowing, and trimming indefinitely.
2. Mow Strip/Bender Board
Bender board is what will separate your artificial grass from the rest of your landscape/garden.
You’re looking at around $21 for a four-inch roll, twenty feet long. Don’t leave this out of your budget when looking at artificial turf costs. Just add up the perimeter length of your project to calculate how many rolls you need.
3. Weed Barrier Fabric
If you select turf, don’t forget the cost of weed barrier fabric to prevent any weeds poking up through your artificial turf.
This is usually sold in rolls of 1,500 square feet, about $75 a roll. However, one roll is generally enough to cover your space.
4. Turf Infill
This cost is important to be mindful of, especially as it varies greatly depending on what you choose. Here are the standard choices:
- Acrylic coated sand
- Flex sand
- Rubber
- Silica sand
Again, while it may be tempting to cut costs here, “buy nice or buy twice” is a great motto when it comes to infill. It just may save you big bucks down the road. You will need about 1-2 pounds of infill per square foot.
5. Miscellaneous
Don’t forget to budget for miscellaneous items like stakes, glue, nails, seaming tape, and other items for artificial turf costs..
How Artificial Turf Saves Money
While it’s important to factor in artificial turf cost when budgeting for your lawn, don’t forget to think big picture.
In the long run, if you live in North Texas you’re looking at saving around 55 gallons of water a YEAR, per square foot of yard you fill with artificial turf instead of real grass. These savings add up when you factor in maintenance and lawn care over 15-20 years.
For more information on the pros and cons of artificial turf, check out our blog.
