Artificial grass is becoming more and more popular every year. There are so many different ranges available today, ensuring you get an authentic look in your garden without the hassle of mowing, weeding and other maintenance.

Artificial grass costs can vary widely depending on many factors. Read our guide to find out everything you need to know about artificial grass and its costs.

How much does artificial grass cost?

How much artificial grass costs varies depending on factors such as the quality of the material, pile height, and installation requirements. On average, expect to pay £2,300 for the supply and installation of artificial grass on a 40m2 garden.

Artificial grass cost per m²

The cost of artificial grass per square metre typically includes the price of the grass itself, installation materials and labour. On average, you can expect to pay £57.50 per square metre for artificial grass supply and installation. For just the artificial grass itself, expect to pay an average of £23 per m².

Higher quality artificial grass with a thicker pile and more realistic appearance may command a higher price per square metre compared to budget options.

Factors affecting the cost of artificial grass installation

While we can give you an average cost of artificial grass installation, there are a few factors that can impact the final cost:

• Quality: As you’d expect, lower-quality, budget types of artificial grass will cost less than higher-quality ones. However, budget artificial grass is likely to last less time than premium versions, so you may find you have to replace it more quickly.

• Pile height/thickness: The higher or thicker the pile, the more the artificial grass will cost. Generally, the thicker piles look more like natural grass, and often feel better underfoot.

• Size of your garden: Of course, the larger your garden, the more you’ll pay in labour and materials. However, you may pay less per m2 if you have a very large garden.

• Current state of your garden: The prices above assume that your garden is in a good state, with a level surface and natural grass in the area that you want to replace with an artificial lawn. If your garden is very overgrown or has lots of rubbish in it, you may need to pay for garden clearance first.

• Access: The average costs we’ve quoted assume that your garden has easy access to the side to allow for the movement of equipment and materials. If you don’t have side or rear access, you may have to pay more.

• Where you live: One of the biggest factors affecting the cost of your artificial grass installation is your location. The cost of living varies across the UK, meaning landscapers charge different hourly and daily rates. Check our table further down the page to get a more accurate idea of artificial grass cost in your nearest town or city.

Advantages and disadvantages of artificial grass

Like anything, there are pros and cons of artificial grass. Make sure you weigh up the advantages and disadvantages before you go ahead with your project:

Advantages:

Low maintenance: Artificial grass requires minimal upkeep compared to natural turf. There's no need for mowing, watering, or fertilising, saving you time and gardener costs.

Durability: Artificial grass is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for high-traffic areas such as gardens, playgrounds, and sports fields.

All-weather use: Unlike natural grass, artificial grass can be used year-round, regardless of weather conditions, without the risk of mud or puddles.

Aesthetic appeal: High-quality artificial grass closely resembles the look and feel of natural grass, providing a lush, green lawn all year round.

Environmental benefits: Artificial grass eliminates the need for pesticides, herbicides, and water, making it an eco-friendly choice for homeowners.

Disadvantages:

Initial cost: The upfront cost of artificial grass can be higher than natural turf, especially for premium quality products.

Heat retention: Artificial grass can become hot in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to walk on barefoot during the summer months.

Lifespan: While artificial grass is durable, it may not last as long as natural grass and can deteriorate over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

Limited biodiversity: Artificial grass doesn’t support biodiversity like natural grass, which provides habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife.

Environmental concerns: While you won’t need to water or use pesticides on your artificial grass, it can prevent the natural drain of water. While it is permeable and rainwater can drain through it, it won’t be as effective as real grass and could contribute to local flooding. However, with a well-installed sub-base, your artificial grass should drain well.

How long does it take to lay artificial grass?

The time it takes to lay artificial grass depends on how big your garden is, the condition of the existing surface and the complexity of the installation. On average, a professional installation team of landscapers can complete the job in 1 to 3 days for a garden of around 40m².

How long does artificial grass last?

How long artificial grass lasts can vary depending on factors such as usage, maintenance and quality. High-quality artificial grass can last up to 15 years or more with proper care and maintenance, such as raking and rinsing.

Ways to improve the lifespan of your artificial grass include:

• Raking/brushing and rinsing leaves and other debris off the surface

• Trying to walk evenly across the lawn rather than over the same patch

• Rotating heavy furniture/children’s toys to allow even wear

• Clean up pet waste quickly

• Top up the infill regularly

• Prevent burns from BBQs, cigarettes and window reflections

Is it cheaper to turf or lay artificial grass?

Initially, it’s cheaper to turf than lay artificial grass. However, in the long run, artificial grass may be more cost-effective due to lower maintenance and water-saving benefits.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, lifestyle and preferences. If you can afford the up front cost of artificial grass, then you may decide that the improvement on your quality of life due to not having to maintain a lawn is worth the initial expense.

Is artificial grass more expensive than paving?

The cost of artificial grass can be comparable to paving, depending on factors such as the quality of materials and the size of the area to be covered. Generally, block paving costs more than artificial grass to install, but concrete or tarmac may be a similar cost or slightly less.

Consider what you want from the space you’re thinking about paving or laying artificial grass on. If you want to be able to sit on the surface or watch your children play, artificial grass may be better. But if you want to put garden furniture or a BBQ on the surface, paving may suit you more.

Do you need planning permission for artificial grass?

In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to install artificial grass in your garden. However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area, or if there are specific local regulations, you should check with your local planning authority before proceeding with installation.

Does artificial grass devalue a home?

Artificial grass can devalue a home, but it can also increase its value. Some buyers will be looking for a nice fresh, natural lawn, while others will love the fact that artificial grass is low-maintenance.

If you’re worried about devaluing your home, make sure you choose a high-quality artificial grass. The more authentic it looks, the less likely buyers are to be put off. Ultimately, you should consider how much you will improve your quality of life by installing artificial grass over whether or not it will add value to your property.

Can you lay artificial grass on an existing lawn or over paving stones?

Yes, you can lay artificial grass over paving stones, provided the surface is flat, stable, and free from debris. If your paving stones are damaged, it’s better to take them up and prepare a sub-base for your artificial grass, as it may not adhere to cracked or uneven stones.

While you can lay artificial grass on an existing lawn, it’s not a good idea. If you lay artificial grass straight over your lawn, the natural grass will begin to grow up through it. It can then become compacted underneath, which can create bumps and ridges, making your artificial grass uncomfortable to sit or walk on barefoot.

Plus, artificial grass needs a smooth base, so like cracked paving stones can stop artificial grass from adhering, so can the rough, uneven surface of natural turf.

Does artificial grass fade in the sun?

High-quality artificial grass is UV-stabilised to resist fading and maintain its colour under prolonged exposure to sunlight. However, you may notice that low-end artificial grass products fade over time, especially if exposed to intense sunlight for extended periods.

It’s best to invest in a reputable artificial grass brand to help minimise the risk of fading and ensure long-lasting performance.

If you’re ready to start your artificial grass project, post your job on HaMuch now. We’ll put you in touch with reliable landscapers who will be happy to give you a quote.

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