What is included in the cost of synthetic turf? Besides the cost of the actual turf, the other materials include crushed rock (for the base), seam tape and glue, nail boards (if applicable), a geotextile fabric used as a weed barrier (if applicable) and miscellaneous items such as screws/washers.
Labor and installation is typically the largest portion of the cost incurred for synthetic turf installation. It can be very complex, so we made a whole page to talk about it here.
These vary according to the size of the project and how clear cut the area is that you are dealing with. If it is a complicated setting with a lot of corners more labor may be needed.
Okay, but what is the cost of synthetic turf also known as artificial grass? The cost of turf can vary wildly, but typically falls into a number of price ranges based on the type of turf.
- High-quality budget turf can be purchased as low as $1.99 per square foot for new turf.
- Used turf and factory-seconds can be found for even less, but typically shouldn’t be used for long-term installations.
- Premium quality landscape turf can be purchased for $2.99 to $3.99 per square foot.
- Putting Green Turf can be purchased for $1.99 to $2.99 per square foot. Other costs can be higher, such as labor, accessories and additional base work.
- Athletic field turf is typically sold with high installation costs included and will run $5-$6 per square foot and up.
- Playground turf can be purchased for $2.99-$3.99 per square foot, and you’ll need to factor in padding as an additional cost.
- Specialty dog turf with built-in antimicrobial technology can run between $3.99 to $4.89 per square foot.
How Do You Determine Quality? Purchasing artificial turf should be seen as a long term investment, unless you want to replace materials every few years. Pricing may be dramatically different when it comes to the quality, durability, look and feel of the turf. For better quality that will last the longest, expect to pay more. For more information about how to spot the best synthetic turf, check out the Consumer Buying Guide brought to you by Perfect Turf.
What are the other costs? You’ve got to keep these factors in mind:
- The base can vary in cost widely depending on the size of the area and a number of other factors. Some installs can be done directly on cement, while sometimes you’ll need a geotextile liner and typically between 2 to 8 inches of crushed rock. You can’t expect any company to quote a cost for your base without detailed information typically involving a site visit.
- Seam tape, glue and accessories will cost you about 5-10% of your material costs. Jobs that require more complex seaming can drive the costs up a bit, but some jobs require no seams at all.
- Finally labor make up about 50% of your project. Some jobs can have higher labor costs, such as Putting Greens, Playgrounds and especially Athletic Fields. More information here.
The silver lining: While the cost of synthetic turf may seem high at first, the cost efficiency compared to sod is actually very good. A typical installation will break-even after X years, and be cost positive afterwards while giving you the benefits of turf the entire time. Perfect Turf offers a money saving calculator to find your savings.
If you’re interested in a more specific quote, check out Perfect Turf’s free Quick Quote form for a quick and easy estimate.