If you’re considering replacing your thirsty natural lawn with synthetic turf, there are several factors to consider. These include the cost of turf materials, installation costs if hiring professionals and miscellaneous add-ons like a putting green or deodorizer.
The first step in calculating the cost of your artificial grass is to determine the size of the area to be covered. Other cost considerations include site preparation and labor.
Choosing the Right Turf
Artificial turf is a more cost-effective option than natural grass for many homeowners because it requires less maintenance. However, there are a number of factors that can affect the cost of your project. The first is the type of turf you choose. Turf comes in a variety of styles, heights, and textures that mimic different types of natural grass. There are also differences in cost between different brands. You will need to weigh the costs and benefits of each option to decide which is right for your needs.
Another factor is the size of the area you are covering. A large yard will require more turf and a longer installation time than a smaller one, which may add to the overall cost of your project. It’s important to accurately measure your yard before purchasing turf, and if you have an irregularly-shaped outdoor space, it may help to break it up into sections for easier measurement. Once you know the size of your space, you can calculate how much turf to purchase based on the square footage.
Other costs to consider include infill material, labor, and additional services. For example, some infill materials are more expensive than others and may increase the cost of your artificial turf project. Infill options range from rubber and sand to Zeolite, which helps to eliminate pet waste odors and reduce water damage to the turf.
The amount of infill needed will depend on the amount of rainfall in your area, as well as how heavily your turf will be used. For high-traffic areas, you will want to use a heavier infill material than a decorative lawn. A specialist at US Turf can help you determine the best infill for your needs and budget.
Other factors to consider include the level of surface preparation and whether you need additional services, such as putting greens or banding strips. Labor prices vary depending on the scope of work required and the level of expertise. For example, a property that needs extensive prep work such as pulling up concrete and regrading the ground will be more expensive than a residential property that requires less extensive prep.
Preparation
The amount of work that goes into preparing the area for artificial turf installation will be a factor in your overall project costs. You’ll need to dig out the existing grass and weeds, and then lay down a base of drain rock and weed barrier fabric. This will allow water to drain and evaporate properly, avoiding puddles that can cause the turf to deteriorate over time.
Depending on the type of turf you choose, you may also need to add infill material for stability and softness. This will cost you anywhere from $0.30 to $1.80 per pound, with antimicrobial filler costing slightly more.
After you have prepped the area, you can begin measuring for the turf. Use a tape measure and a piece of paper to record the length and width of each section of your yard. Multiply the measurements together to find out how many square feet of turf you’ll need. If the area is uneven, it’s best to break up the measurements into smaller sections.
Before you lay down the artificial turf, it’s essential to test for any underground hazards such as gas and electric lines. This will protect you from expensive repairs later on. During this stage, you should also check for any drainage pipes that need to be moved or added.
For the most accurate results, it’s a good idea to hire professionals for your artificial turf installation who can give you an estimate on cost to install synthetic grass. These experts can ensure that the job is done correctly, minimizing any costly mistakes in the future. They will also be able to help you choose the right turf for your property and budget.
If you’re looking to save money on your turf installation, try choosing less expensive materials or completing some of the site preparation yourself. However, remember that sacrificing quality can result in a higher total cost for your project over the long term. Make sure to set a realistic budget and take all expenses into account, including the cost of the turf itself, labor costs if you’re hiring professionals, and any equipment rentals if you’re doing it yourself.
Installation
A professional consultation can help you determine the feasibility of your turf installation project. A turf expert will discuss the layout and design of your space, any accessories you would like to include and any additional features that may add to the overall cost. They will also go over site preparation requirements including soil leveling and removal of existing grass or debris. This is important because the amount of work that will be required to prepare the space can impact your overall artificial grass cost.
Another factor that can affect the price of your artificial turf is the size of the project. Larger projects will require more labor and materials than smaller projects, which can increase your artificial turf cost. This is especially true if the project requires excavation or if it is located in an area with a lot of stairs or slopes.
You will also need to consider the type of synthetic turf that you want to install. Different types of turf have different prices, so it is important to do your research before choosing the right turf for your project. Polypropylene, polyethylene and nylon are the most common types of turf on the market. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, polypropylene is the most affordable option, but it can be easily damaged by pets and children. Polyethylene and nylon are more durable and can stand up to heavy use, but they are more expensive.
Once you have figured out how much turf you need, it is time to start making your budget. In addition to the cost of the turf itself, you will need to budget for supplies and labor. Remember to account for any additional features you may want to include in your project, such as a putting green or banding strips for bocce ball. You will also need to include operational costs such as dump fees, fueling fees and delivery charges.
While you can save money by installing your own turf, it is best to hire a professional to do the job for you. A skilled professional will be able to lay the turf quickly and correctly, which can help you avoid costly repairs down the road. A poorly installed artificial lawn can result in shifting, bunching and seam splitting, which will cost you extra money to repair.
Maintenance
A growing number of homeowners are replacing thirsty grass lawns with artificial turf, a less-maintenance and more aesthetically pleasing alternative. While a fake lawn may seem like the perfect solution, it is important to consider all associated costs before making this big investment. There are many factors to keep in mind, including installation costs and ongoing maintenance expenses.
Initially, you should determine the square footage of your outdoor space to get an accurate estimate of the cost of synthetic turf materials and labor. You can use a tape measure to make this measurement or take measurements from each corner of your yard. Once you have these numbers, subtract any areas that don’t need turf installation such as pathways or flower beds. You can also use this calculation to figure out the price of infill material.
Turf prices vary depending on the type and quality. In general, higher-quality turf is more expensive than lower-grade products. In addition, certain features can add to the overall cost of your turf project, such as UV resistance and antimicrobial properties.
Another major factor that can affect the price of your turf is the shape and size of the area being installed. If the space is curved or has a slope, this will require more work from your pro to ensure the turf stays in place and that it doesn’t cause drainage issues.
As with any product, the life expectancy of your artificial turf will depend on how well it is maintained. The best way to protect your investment is by removing any spills or stains immediately. The same cleaning products that you would use for a carpet or sofa can be used to clean up the stain on an artificial lawn. Be sure to hose off the stain thoroughly before it has a chance to set.
It is also important to remove any leaves or debris from your artificial lawn on a regular basis. This will help the grass look its best and prevent tripping hazards. In addition, a leaf blower or brush can be used to remove these items from the surface, followed by a quick rinse with a hose.