Artificial Grass Costs and Considerations
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
1. Average Cost of Artificial Grass Installation
- National Average: $5,737
- Range: $3,242–$8,697
- Low End: $1,300
- High End: $15,000
2. Artificial Grass Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cost Range (200 sq. ft.) |
|-----------------------------|------------------------------|
| Turf Materials | $400–$1,600 |
| Labor Costs | $600–$1,800 |
| Infill Materials | $50–$350 |
| Excavation Yard Prep | $150–$600 |
| Grass Disposal | $24–$75 |
| Total Cost | $1,224–$1,425 |
| Cost Per Sq. Ft. | $6–$22 |
3. Factors Affecting Costs
- Yard Size and Shape:
- Turf: $2–$8 per sq. ft.
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Custom shapes and curves add $1–$3 per sq. ft.
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Type of Artificial Grass:
- Nylon: $5–$8/sq. ft. (Durable, heat-resistant)
- Polypropylene: $2–$7/sq. ft. (Soft, athletic use)
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Polyethylene: $2–$5/sq. ft. (Affordable, low-traffic areas)
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Labor Costs:
- Range: $3–$9 per sq. ft.
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Additional prep work increases costs.
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Add-Ons:
- Weed Barrier: $0.40–$0.80/sq. ft.
- Edging: $1–$5/linear foot.
- Drainage Systems: $800–$7,000.
- Tree/Grass Removal: $1–$2.75/sq. ft.
4. Cost Comparisons
| Feature | Artificial Grass | Sod |
|----------------------------------|------------------------|----------------------|
| Initial Installation | $3,100–$8,400 | $1,100–$3,000 |
| Yearly Maintenance | $0 | $1,235–$4,200 |
| Watering, Mowing, Fertilizing| $0 | $700–$3,000 |
| Longevity | ~10 years | ~1–5 years (with care)|
5. Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---------------------------------|-------------------------------------|
| Always green, no mowing. | High upfront costs. |
| Pest-free and eco-friendly. | Can get hot in summer. |
| No need for water or fertilizer. | Costly to replace if damaged. |
6. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY Costs: $2,000–$4,000 (plus ~$685 for tools).
- Pros’ Labor Costs: $4–$9/sq. ft.
- Key Considerations:
- DIY requires significant time and effort.
- Incorrect installation can lead to drainage issues or uneven turf.
7. Tips to Save Money
- DIY Prep Work:
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Clear weeds, add gravel, and level the ground to save $3–$5/sq. ft. in labor costs.
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Choose Affordable Materials:
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Opt for budget-friendly turf in low-traffic areas.
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Recycled/Reclaimed Turf:
- Save significantly by choosing eco-friendly recycled options.
8. Best Locations for Artificial Grass
- Pool areas
- Pet zones
- Playgrounds
- Walkways or terraces
- Mini-golf spaces
Final Thoughts
Artificial grass offers long-term savings and low maintenance but comes with high upfront costs. By carefully selecting materials, opting for DIY prep, or exploring recycled options, you can make this eco-friendly investment more budget-friendly!
