Artificial Grass Cost by Type

There are three types of artificial grass to choose from, and each one comes with its own price range and properties:

Material

Cost per Square Foot

Nylon

$5 - $6+

Polypropylene

$2 - $6

Polyethylene

$2 - $4

Nylon

Nylon turf averages between $5 to upwards of $6 per square foot. When you need superior strength and a stiff pile that maintains its shape under heavy foot traffic, nylon is the way to go. This synthetic lawn material can hold up under high temperatures and offers a natural look, although it is not as soft as natural grass.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene turf costs between $2 to $6 per square foot on average. When you want a gorgeous green lawn with a soft, natural texture, polyethylene is often the best choice. Higher-end options are very durable, making it well suited for homes and athletic fields. Periodic raking is needed to help maintain its look and bounce.

Polyethylene

In addition to being the least-expensive option at only $2 to $4 per square foot, polypropylene turf is also the least durable. For homeowners looking to stay on budget, it could be a good option. However, it's best suited to spaces that receive minimal foot traffic and spaces that aren't exposed to long periods of high heat, which can disfigure the blades.

Artificial Turf Cost Factors

The average cost per square foot to install turf ranges from $5 to $20. But like any other home project, the final price tag depends on a variety of factors, including if you decide to hire Purfect Turf or DIY.  

Here are some of the most common cost factors for installing artificial turf.

Size

Synthetic lawn grass or turf alone averages $2 to $8 per square foot, depending on the brand and type you choose. Some stores sell artificial materials by the linear foot, but in most cases, you can ask to have it cut to order for the size you need. Rolls often come in widths ranging from 7 to 15 feet.

Shape

The shape of your landscape design can affect the total cost of your project. Curved or unusually shaped designs will require customizations that you wouldn’t anticipate in a standard, rectangular area. Anticipate paying $1 to $3 more per square foot for labor in these situations.

Blade Shape 

Artificial turf blades cost $2 to $3 per square foot. In its earliest days, fake grass was woven on a loom, which produced more of a carpet-like product. Modern options are made to look like real grass blades, with variations ranging from two to four inches in blade length in the same piece to add to the natural look. 

W-shaped blades are one of the most durable, heat-resistant shapes and will cost more than S-shaped blades, which typically offer the softest feel underfoot but less heat-resistance and durability.

Location

The location of your artificial turf can affect the total price of your installation. Anticipate spending more on a rooftop, stairway, pool perimeter, or concrete location, as these may require more specialized materials to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Base Material

For a long-lasting, well-draining artificial turf, you’ll need a base material of decomposed granite and landscape fabric to prevent weeds. Decomposed granite runs at $0.30 to $0.70 per square foot, while landscape fabric costs between $0.40 to $0.80 per square foot.

Artificial Grass Installation Costs

The price for installing artificial grass ranges from $3 to $9. Price differences come down to the amount of labor required to get the job done. Some projects involve removing old grass, installing extra materials to prevent moisture buildup, and custom installations. 

Location Preparation

Most surfaces will need to be excavated before the artificial grass can be installed. The price to excavate ranges from $50 to $200 per cubic yard of soil.

Homeowners interested in saving money on professional installation can take a few preparatory steps to save on labor costs. 

A few tips for saving money on artificial grass include:

• Clearing and excavating the area by digging the soil to depths of 1.5 to 2.5 inches

• Laying a weed-control membrane

• Adding a layer of gravel or aggregate and compacting it to create an even surface

• Topping the subsurface with sand to even the area out in preparation for the lawn to be installed

Cleanup Costs

Hauling away dirt and old grass costs between $8 and $25 per cubic yard. If you want your pro to move the dirt to a different location on your property, the price to cut and fill is between $1 to $15 per cubic yard.

Irrigation 

Drainage must be considered and a base of decomposed granite or limestone chippings should be laid down so that there is proper water run-off. Decomposed granite costs anywhere from $0.30 and $0.70 per square foot. Additionally, a weed barrier will be laid down so you won't worry about weeds popping up through the artificial grass.