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.
  • Custom shapes and curves add $1–$3 per sq. ft.

  • Type of Artificial Grass:

  • Nylon: $5–$8/sq. ft. (Durable, heat-resistant)
  • Polypropylene: $2–$7/sq. ft. (Soft, athletic use)
  • Polyethylene: $2–$5/sq. ft. (Affordable, low-traffic areas)

  • Labor Costs:

  • Range: $3–$9 per sq. ft.
  • Additional prep work increases costs.

  • 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:
  • Clear weeds, add gravel, and level the ground to save $3–$5/sq. ft. in labor costs.

  • Choose Affordable Materials:

  • Opt for budget-friendly turf in low-traffic areas.

  • 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!


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