Last Updated on June 8, 2023 by ReTurf

Artificial turf is increasingly becoming a fixture in outdoor spaces, from backyards to business complexes. Its constant state of green, the elimination of mowing and other lawn maintenance, and its resilience against weather extremes, make it an attractive alternative to natural grass.

However, a common question often arises for budget-minded homeowners and other property owners considering installing it: “Can artificial turf actually be affordable?”

It’s an important question, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. The cost of installing artificial turf varies widely based on multiple factors, with options such as used artificial turf offering potentially significant savings. In this guide, we’ll aim to provide a comprehensive examination of the costs associated with artificial turf, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you.

Initial Cost vs Long-term Savings

Upfront Investment

While the initial cost of artificial turf can seem high compared to natural grass, it’s essential to consider it as an investment. The costs depend on various factors such as the type of artificial grass, the size of the area to be covered, and the complexity of the installation process.

Long-term Savings

The affordability of artificial turf isn’t merely about the upfront cost. The real savings become evident in the long run. With artificial turf, you eliminate ongoing expenses such as watering, fertilizing, mowing, and pest control.

The average American homeowner spends approximately $500 per year on lawn maintenance. Over a decade, that’s $5000! With artificial turf, these costs are almost entirely eliminated, making it a more affordable option in the long term.

The Affordability of Used Artificial Turf

For budget-conscious individuals or businesses, used artificial turf can be a great way to reduce costs. Used artificial turf is often sourced from sports fields that upgrade their facilities. Even though the turf is “recycled” (technically repurposed) it is typically high-quality, designed to endure heavy traffic and last for years.

Used artificial turf can offer significant cost savings, and is an environmentally-friendly option that prevents perfectly-usable turf material—like the rolls above—from needlessly clogging up landfills.

Comparing Costs: Artificial Turf vs Natural Grass

Installation and Maintenance of Grass Lawns

The installation cost of natural grass can vary from $1 to $2 per square foot. However, this low initial cost can be deceiving. Natural grass requires constant care, including:

  • Regular watering
  • Frequent mowing
  • Regular weed control
  • Periodic fertilization
  • Regular pest control

These maintenance costs can quickly add up and need to be considered as part of the overall investment in a natural grass lawn.

The Costs of Laying Sod for Grass

Costs for laying sod can vary significantly—ranging anywhere from $800 to a hefty $10,000—with the average homeowner shelling out approximately $4,000 in 2023. Several factors can influence this cost, including:

  • The type of sod chosen
  • The size of your lawn
  • Whether you opt for professional installation

But the financial consideration doesn’t stop there. To truly understand the investment required, we also need to explore associated services and their related costs that might come into play when laying new sod:

Additional Cost Considerations

Fertilizer and Herbicide

A healthy lawn doesn’t just happen—it requires ongoing care. To ensure your new sod thrives, you might want to apply fertilizer or herbicide. Depending on your lawn’s size, one treatment could set you back between $150 and $500, translating to around $0.02 to $0.08 per square foot.

Sprinkler System

Unlike artificial turf, hydration is necessary for maintaining a lush, green lawn. If you don’t already have one, installing a sprinkler system concurrently with your new sod can be a smart move. The cost of this feature depends on the size of your yard and the complexity of the system, with most homeowners paying between $2,400 to $4,500.

And all this talk of irrigation brings us to…

The Hidden Costs of Natural Grass

Water usage is another significant expense for natural grass. In hot and dry climates, maintaining a green and lush lawn can require a large amount of water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an average American household uses 320 gallons of water per day, with outdoor uses accounting for a significant portion:

  1. 30% is devoted to outdoor uses
  2. A significant portion of outdoor water is used to water lawns
  3. This contributes to higher utility bills

In contrast, artificial turf requires no water, apart from the occasional rinse to remove dust or debris, contributing to lower utility bills and promoting water conservation.

Artificial Turf: An Upfront Investment for Long-term Savings

Artificial turf, with its low maintenance needs and year-round appeal, comes with an initial price tag that may seem steep. Prices for new turf can range from around $6 to $20 per square foot, potentially causing some sticker shock. However, it’s important to see the bigger picture.

Yes, the upfront costs are more considerable than natural grass, but the convenience and long-term savings it provides can more than make up for the initial investment. Consider that with artificial turf, you’re eliminating the normal ongoing costs of lawn care such as:

  • Watering: No need for regular sprinkling, saving you on water bills.
  • Mowing: Forget about weekly mowing sessions, freeing up your time.
  • Fertilizing: No requirement for fertilizers, trimming additional expenses.

The lack of these maintenance needs adds to the long-term savings (not to mention time savings) of artificial turf. The upfront cost, therefore, needs to be viewed not only as an expense, but as an investment towards a green, hassle-free future.

Again, there is also the option of used rolls of turf, which can sometimes be purchased for (literally) pennies on the dollar. Often reclaimed from sports fields upgrading their facilities, used turf is designed to have a long lifespan and endure heavy use. Not only does used turf come at a reduced price, but its use also presents an environmentally-friendly choice, repurposing materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.

With numerous different shades of green to choose from, all-weather resilience, and a perpetually healthy and “perfectly manicured” appearance, artificial turf holds undeniable appeal for those who would prefer a lush lawn throughout the year with almost no upkeep necessary compared to regular grass. So although the upfront cost of professional installation may be higher, the reduced ongoing maintenance costs can make having an artificial lawn an affordable luxury.

The Bottom Line

Artificial turf can be a highly cost-effective solution, especially when you consider the long-term savings on maintenance and water bills. The market also offers affordable options such as used artificial turf, which is both budget-friendly and environmentally sustainable. It’s an investment towards an evergreen, low-maintenance lawn that can save money, conserve water, and boost the aesthetics of your property.

Need More Information?

If you have any further questions or need more insights into artificial turf, feel free to connect with ReTURF. You can call us at (828) 518-5787 or click here to contact us via email. We’re always here to provide the guidance you need!

References

  1. US EPA. “US Outdoor Water Use | WaterSense | US EPA.” Epa.gov, 2019, 19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html.
  2. https://www.bobvila.com/authors/Brie-Greenhalgh. “How Much Does a New Lawn Cost?” Bob Vila, 28 Mar. 2022, www.bobvila.com/articles/how-much-does-a-new-lawn-cost/. Accessed 9 June 2023.
  3. Weimert, Kelly. “What Is the Cost to Lay Sod?” Forbes Home, 29 Mar. 2023, www.forbes.com/home-improvement/lawn-care/cost-to-lay-sod/.