What is artificial turf, and is it worth the investment?
Artificial turf replaces real grass, typically in a yard or sports field. Instead of being grown from seed, it’s made from synthetic materials connected to a backing mat, which sits over a cushioning base material like recycled tires.
Artificial turf can be worth the investment if you value:
Durability: It holds up well under heavy foot traffic.
Pest management: Unlike natural grass, turf doesn't require costly pest treatments.
A uniform, year-long appearance: Artificial turf stays green and vibrant year-round.
Low maintenance: Turf doesn't grow, so you can drastically reduce your lawn care efforts. No watering, mowing or upkeeping required.
If these benefits match your needs, artificial turf may be worth the investment. Contact artificial turf suppliers and installers to start getting estimates.
How much does artificial turf cost?
The national average cost to install artificial turf ranges from around $2,576 and $7,702,* according to Thumbtack data. The cost of artificial turf varies due to several factors, including:
Quality: The cheapest artificial turf is often polyethylene, which is robust but looks less natural. Polypropylene offers a mid-range option with a somewhat natural appearance, while nylon is the most natural-looking.
Area: The size of your project will directly impact the cost of labor and materials.
Additional materials: Adding edging — or using a variety of base and subbase materials — can add to the overall cost of the materials and the labor needed for installation.
Getting quotes from several turf companies can help ensure you're paying the best price.
*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.
How can I save money on artificial grass?
Here are some ways you can save on this project:
Buy in bulk: Purchasing turf in bulk can lower the price per square foot if you're covering a large area. Some suppliers offer discounts for orders over a certain square footage, helping you reduce overall costs.
Compare suppliers and installers: Getting multiple quotes from different turf suppliers near you can help you get the best price. Some companies offer price matching if you provide competitor quotes. The most affordable places to buy artificial grass and turf are usually wholesale distributors, online retailers and recycled turf suppliers.
Look for sales and overstock deals: Retailers often have clearance sales, overstock inventory or remnant rolls at a discount. Checking with local suppliers and online retailers can help you find high-quality artificial grass at a lower cost.
Consider recycled or used turf: Recycled or lightly used turf from sports fields or commercial properties is often cheaper than new rolls. Many resellers inspect and refurbish turf, offering an affordable option that doesn’t drastically compromise quality.
Choose a budget-friendly turf type: Turf materials vary in price, with nylon usually being the most expensive. Opting for polyethylene or polypropylene turf, which are still durable and natural-looking, can help reduce costs while meeting your needs.
What is landscaping?
Landscaping is the intentional placement and maintenance of living plants on an area of land or in your yard. This can include trees, lawn, flowers, bushes and other plant life and often incorporates mulch and other organic matter. The primary purpose of landscaping is to provide beauty to the house or building it surrounds.
Many landscaping companies also offer design, architecture and construction services. For example, they can help you design a yard that incorporates a patio, deck, pool, fire pit, lighting, walkways, retaining walls and more.
Is hiring a landscaper worth it?
A landscaper is worth it if you don't want to invest a significant amount of time and effort into planting, trimming, raking, weeding and performing other operations on your garden or yard. Hiring a landscaper to perform regular maintenance in your yards and complete bigger projects is valuable if you’re looking to sell your house. A professional landscaper can make your house more appealing to potential buyers.
Some landscapers may perform maintenance duties — remove leaves, mow lawns, trim trees and shrubs, etc. — but they can also help you bring bigger projects to life. This may include adding a misting system, an outdoor fireplace, water features, artificial turf, a patio and much more.
Start contacting landscapers near you to get free estimates and start planning your project today.
What is the best time of year to lay artificial turf?
Generally, the best times of year to lay both artificial turf and regular turf are in the spring or the fall. Here’s why many professionals recommend spring or fall:
Softer ground: The ground is typically more workable — not frozen or too dry.
Weather: Mild temperatures make the work easier.
Availability: Contractors typically have more availability in the fall months as summer landscaping jobs wind down.
Aesthetics: Springtime installation will give you a fresh, beautiful turf for summer activities, while fall installation will let you enjoy your yard’s new look during peak autumn foliage season.
When in doubt, it’s best to reach out to turf professionals to see what they recommend for your yard.
What types of artificial turf should I consider for my yard?
The best artificial turf depends on how you’ll use your yard. Ask a local professional turf installer about the following options:
Nylon turf is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas because it bounces back quickly and won’t flatten over time. It resists extreme heat and UV rays, so it won’t fade or degrade in the sun. While it typically costs more upfront, it tends to last the longest.
Polyethylene turf is ideal if you want a lawn that looks and feels like real grass. It’s soft, vibrant and durable enough for everyday use. While not as tough as nylon, it provides a great balance between comfort and longevity at a mid-range price.
Polypropylene turf is typically the most budget-friendly option and works well in low-traffic areas. It feels soft underfoot but is less durable and can warp under extreme heat. This can be a cost-effective choice if your yard doesn’t see much activity.
Pet-friendly turf is designed for dog owners who need a low-maintenance lawn. It typically features a shorter pile height for easier cleanup and has a porous, antimicrobial backing to help with drainage and odor control.
Can I install turf myself, or should I hire a professional?
In most cases, it's best to hire a professional to install turf. When deciding between DIY vs. hiring a professional, consider:
Tools and materials: Turf installation requires turf cutters, wheelbarrows, seam kits, power brooms and other tools. Most homeowners don't have all those, and buying them for a one-time project can be cost-prohibitive.
Knowledge and expertise: Installing turf takes time, practice and knowhow. If you've never done it, there can be a significant learning curve. Hiring a professional turf installer near you avoids all that.
Many pros guarantee their work: You want your new turf to look great and last a long time. If you hire a pro with a warranty and something goes wrong with your turf during the warranty period, you'll have someone who can correct the problem.
How much does landscaping cost per square foot?
The cost of landscaping can vary widely based on the type of plants you wish to have, the amount of grading required, the condition of the land before work begins, and other factors. Adding in designer or high-end landscaping, as well as hardscaping such as sidewalks, walls, or patios will add to the cost. To find out how much your landscaping will cost, contact landscapers near you.
Is hiring a landscaper worth it?
A landscaper is worth it if you don't want to invest a significant amount of time and effort into planting, trimming, raking, weeding and performing other operations on your garden or yard. Hiring a landscaper to perform regular maintenance in your yards and complete bigger projects is valuable if you’re looking to sell your house. A professional landscaper can make your house more appealing to potential buyers.
Some landscapers may perform maintenance duties — remove leaves, mow lawns, trim trees and shrubs, etc. — but they can also help you bring bigger projects to life. This may include adding a misting system, an outdoor fireplace, water features, artificial turf, a patio and much more.
Start contacting landscapers near you to get free estimates and start planning your project today.