Artificial Grass Calculator — Materials & Cost Estimate

Measure your area (length × width) and add about 10% for cutting waste and trimming. Artificial grass is sold in 2m and 4m wide rolls (typically up to 25m long), so plan your strips to run along the longest dimension and minimise joins. Always lay every strip with the pile leaning the same way for a consistent, seamless look.

On soil, you need to remove the top 50-75mm and replace with compacted Type 1 aggregate (MOT). On concrete or paving, you can lay directly with a shock pad for comfort. The sub-base should be level and well-compacted with a slight drainage fall.

Kiln-dried silica sand infill (typically 2-4 kg per m², depending on pile height and density per NeoGrass guidance) helps weigh down the grass, keeps the blades upright, and improves drainage and fire resistance. Most quality lawn turfs benefit from it. Brush it down into the pile with a stiff broom after laying so the sand sits at the base and is not visible.

Budget grass costs £6-£10/m², mid-range £12-£20/m², and premium £22-£35/m². Installation typically adds £15-£30/m² including sub-base preparation. Higher quality grass looks more natural, feels softer, and lasts longer (15-20 years vs 8-10 for budget).

Yes, always lay weed membrane on top of the sub-base before the grass. This prevents weeds growing through. Use a heavy-duty geotextile membrane, not basic landscape fabric. On concrete, membrane is not needed.