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How much does it cost to install instant turf? | 2024 cost guide

Instant turf is comparatively easy to install, and as the name suggests, you don’t have to start right from the beginning. All you need to do is just prepare the soil, unroll the turf, and voila — you have a beautiful lawn! It’s the perfect way to makeover your backyard. However, before beginning, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. We’ll jump into the costs, but let’s first discuss the installation. 

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Article Overview

  • How much does instant turf cost in 2024?
  • What are the different types of instant turf?
  • Average instant turf costs
  • Instant turf installation costs
  • Turf installation process
  • Who to hire to install instant turf 
  • Instant turf FAQs

How much does it cost to install instant turf

How much does instant turf cost in 2024?

On average, for an area of 50 square metres, you should expect to pay around $500 for the new grass itself. This amount of turf can cost from $375 to $625, depending on which type of grass you choose. However, this price does not include turf delivery, soil preparation, or laying.

The cost of turf laying is an investment that will pay for itself over time. Having maintained turf is known to increase property value. Apart from adding a touch of natural beauty to your house, one of the other key benefits of instant turf is that it is a much cooler option than pavers, synthetic lawn, or concrete.

What are the different types of instant turf?

Buffalo Grass

Low maintenance, child and pet friendly, soft, loves sun and shade — great for homes.

Kikuyu Grass

Wear-resistant and self-repairs quickly, fast-growing — great for open spaces.

Couch Grass

Wear-resistant and self-repairs quickly, fine blades, loves full sun — great for sports.

Zoysia Grass 

Low maintenance, resistant to cold and drought, loves shade and sun.

how much does it cost to install turf

Average Instant Turf Costs

Buffalo Grass

$12 per square metre

Kikuyu Grass

$8 per square metre

Couch Grass

$8 per square metre

Zoysia Grass

$13 per square metre

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The turf you choose will depend on the environmental conditions in your location, the degree of shade and sun in the area, and the purpose of the turfed area.

Instant Turf Installation Costs

  • Under 150 square metres = $400 flat rate
  • 150–500 square metres = $2.50 per square metre
  • 501–1000 square metres = $2.00 per square metre
  • Over 1000 square metres = $1.75 per square metre

This is just an estimate of the costs of turf installation by a professional, but it’s best to get several quotes for turf installation prices from Service.com.au for an accurate price.

Turf Installation Process

  1. Measure
  2. Dig up and turn soil
  3. Turf delivery
  4. Lay turf immediately
  5. Top dress
  6. Turf takes seed and settles

Instant turf is comparatively easy to install, and as the name suggests, you don’t have to start right from the beginning.

The first thing you need to do is to inspect the area you want the instant turf to be laid on and ensure you have proper measurements of the area. Consider any edges, trees or curves and add 10% extra on top of your total surface area to adjust for any gaps or edges. This will allow you to calculate more accurately the costs involved with the turf installation.

cost to install instant turf

Another thing to consider before purchasing instant turf is the maintenance requirements involved with laying fresh grass. Your current soil needs to be dug up and turned over; you may also need to add new soil.

Once delivered, the grass will need to be laid straight away so that it does not dry out. Furthermore, the first few weeks after installation is very important, as your new grass will need to be well-watered and allowed to settle.

The grass roots of the new turf need to take seed and this can take three to four weeks.  A way to test this is by trying to lift it. If this is difficult, then all is good. The new turf will also need to be top-dressed after laying. It will take about six months to really settle, after a few mows. It will lose some colour during the first Winter but will adjust for the coming seasons. It’s just one of many great landscaping ideas you can enjoy all year round.

instant turf cost

Which type of turf is best for my yard?

Not all grass is the same. You really need to consider the type of grass you want for your lawn. The general rule of thumb is to take into account the soil type, shade, moisture content, and drainage to get the right choice of grass for your area. Just because you love how great the grass on television may look at your favourite golf tournament doesn't mean it may be right for you.

There are many grass types to choose from; Buffalo, Kikuyu, Couch and Zoysia are just a few examples that are popular in Australia. Each grass has its own characteristics and environmental resistance. For example, Buffalo grass can handle shade a lot better than, say, Couch grass or Kikuyu grass. Each type of grass is priced differently.

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Who to Hire to Install Instant Turf

It’s best to hire a landscaper or turf installation business that is experienced with your type of job and capable of working with your particular needs. The landscaper should be able to assist you with the planning process right through to the instant turf installation.

When hiring a landscaper for artificial turf installation, check out their online reviews and ask for proof of insurance and licensing. Public liability insurance is very important if you’re going to hire a tradie to help to work on your property. This will prevent major problems down the track. 

Choosing a trustworthy landscaper is much easier once you’ve received several quotes from Service.com.au. 

Turfing professionals charge differently and they might not include these factors in their quote. Therefore get two or three quotes, to be on the safe side. We always recommend asking your turf laying professional to outline every item within the quote. This way you can rest assured that there will be no unexpected costs when the project is completed.

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Instant Turf FAQs

How long does instant turf last?

Many instant turf manufacturers place at least a 5-year warranty on their products, but with the right care and maintenance, they can last anywhere from 8 to 10 or more years.

What are the benefits of instant turf?

Instant turf gives you the option of providing a safe playing area for children, where you get set up a trampoline, a set of swings or a slide without the fear of them landing hard and hurting themselves. It's also a great area for a game of cricket or to kick the footy around!

Can you install instant turf yourself?

Instant turf can be laid yourself, but it’s important to do your research into the turf laying process and which type of instant turf is best for your home. Alternatively, seek the advice of a professional landscaper. They can provide advice on the most suitable turf for your lawn, and getting turfing quotes will allow you to set an accurate budget without unexpected extra costs.

Further Reading

All the costs quoted were sourced at the time this article was written. They are to be used as an AUD cost guide and may vary locally, and are subject to market changes.

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