Transforming your garden with fresh turf can completely rejuvenate your outdoor space, giving it a lush, lively appearance that’s hard to beat.

For a standard-sized garden (with about 50m² of grass), you can expect to spend around £750, which averages out to about £15 per m². This estimate usually includes the basics: mid-range turf, standard soil preparation, and professional installation — all the essentials for a smooth, healthy lawn that’s ready to enjoy throughout the year.

However, before jumping into a turfing project, it’s important to consider all the potential costs involved. From factoring in the price of materials and labour to deciding if extras like topsoil or weed treatments might be necessary, having a clear understanding of the full scope of expenses can help you avoid any unexpected surprises when quotes start rolling in.

Armed with all the key information, you’ll be in a strong position to tackle your turf project with confidence.

Average Cost of Laying Turf

The cost of turfing a garden can vary based on garden size, turf quality, and any necessary preparation.

Below is an overview of typical costs for small, average, and large gardens in the UK. This includes material costs, labour costs, and basic preparation.

Garden Size	Approximate Area (m²)	Average Cost
Small Garden	20 m² – 40m²	£300 – £700
Average Garden	50m² – 100m²	£750 – £1,500
Large Garden	150m² – 200 m²	£2,000 – £3,500

For an average-sized UK garden (around 50m² – 100m²), the cost to lay new turf with mid-range quality materials is approximately £750 to £1,500. This would put the cost of garden turf installation at around £15 per m². This estimate includes the cost of mid-range turf, basic ground preparation, and labour.

Some gardens may require additional services which need to be budgeted for.

Turf removal is often necessary if there’s existing grass or vegetation that needs to be cleared before laying new turf. This service typically costs £1 to £3 per m², adding around £50 to £300 for an average-sized garden.

For example, topsoil is often added if the soil quality is low or uneven. Topsoil costs around £40 to £80 per tonne, with labour for spreading adding £2 to £5 per m². For an average-sized garden, this could add approximately £100 to £300.

Weed and pest control may also be necessary in gardens with significant weed or pest presence, typically costing £50 to £100 per treatment.

(More detailed information on each is available in the full guide.)

How Much Is Turf Grass in the UK?

When planning to turf your garden in the UK, understanding the cost variations is essential.

The cost of grass turf in the UK varies depending on the quality and type of turf you choose. Average-quality turf provides a good balance between durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost — making it the most popular choice among homeowners.

Below is an estimated breakdown of the cost per square metre (m²) for different turf options:

Turf Quality	Price per m²	Description
Budget	£2 – £4	Basic turf that’s affordable and suitable for low-traffic areas. It often requires more maintenance to stay lush.
Midrange	£5 – £6	A durable, balanced choice for general use, combining good resilience with an attractive appearance.
Premium	£7 – £10	High-quality turf with a dense, luxurious look, designed for heavy use and high-traffic areas.

Please Note: Prices can vary based on supplier, location, and order size.

For those looking to cover a garden area without breaking the bank, budget turf options are available at around £3 per m². However, lower-cost turf requires more maintenance to keep it looking green and healthy, will often wear more easily, and can thin out over time if it gets a lot of foot traffic.

Mid-range turf strikes a great balance between affordability and quality, typically costing about £5 per m². It’s often thicker and made from hardier grass varieties, making it a favourite among homeowners looking for a lawn that’s both visually appealing and durable enough to withstand regular use.

For those seeking a high-quality, versatile lawn, premium garden turf is a top choice. It typically costs around £7 to £10 per m². It includes dense, slow-growing grass varieties that are more durable and lush when compared to cheaper turf. It’s ideal if your grass gets a lot of use and you want to have the best-looking lawn with the least amount of maintenance.

Garden Turf Cost vs Artificial Grass Cost

Deciding between natural turf and artificial grass often involves weighing the initial costs against ongoing maintenance requirements.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical cost ranges to guide your decision:

Type	Price per m²
Natural Turf	£2 – £10
Artificial Grass	£10 – £30

Natural turf is the more budget-friendly choice, especially for those who don’t mind regular lawn care (like watering, mowing, and fertilising) to keep it healthy and green.

While artificial grass requires a larger upfront investment, it’s popular for low-maintenance gardens, as it doesn’t need watering or mowing and stays green year-round. It’s also popular in gardens that don’t get much natural light.

How Much Does Turf Installation Cost?

The installation costs for laying turf depend on garden size, preparation requirements, and labour.

Below is an estimated breakdown for labour and installation costs only, based on different garden sizes:

Garden Size	Approximate Area	Average Installation Cost
Small Garden	20m² – 40m²	£150 – £300
Average Garden	50m² – 100m²	£375 – £750
Large Garden	150m² – 200m²	£1,125 – £1,500

Note: This estimate includes basic site preparation and turf laying but excludes the price of turf and the cost of removing existing turf.

The average cost of laying garden turf is around £5 to £10 per m². This per m² rate allows homeowners to estimate total costs by multiplying the rate by their garden's size. For example, a small garden that’s around 30m² would typically cost around £225 to get installed by a professional.

How Long Does Laying Garden Turf Take?

The time it takes to lay garden turf varies depending on the size of the area and the level of preparation needed.

Let’s look at how long an average-sized UK garden (50m² – 100m²) would take:

• Preparation: Preparing the site — removing old turf, levelling the soil, and adding any required topsoil — typically takes about a day.

• Laying the Turf: Once the ground is ready, laying the turf usually takes half a day to 1 full day for a standard-sized garden if done by a professional and experienced team.

So for an average-sized garden, the process from start to finish will normally take around 1 to 2 days when handled by professionals.

How Much Does Removing Old Turf Cost?

Before laying new turf, existing grass (or vegetation) will need to be removed to ensure the fresh turf has the best chance of rooting. The cost to remove old turf can vary based on the garden size and disposal method chosen.

On average, removing old turf costs around £1 to £3 per m². This includes the labour required to strip away the existing grass layer. Waste disposal is typically included in the turf removal cost.

Garden Size	Approximate Area (m²)	Average Turf Removal Cost
Small Garden	20 – 40 m²	£40 – £80
Average Garden	50 – 100 m²	£100 – £200
Large Garden	150 – 200 m²	£300 – £400

However, you might need to pay a separate charge if you have a larger garden. Some landscapers will arrange this on your behalf through skip hire or green waste disposal services (which are likely cheaper).

If you do need to arrange this yourself, then skip hire costs between £70 to £100 for a small skip (2 – 3 cubic yards) and about £150 to £250 for a larger skip (6 – 8 cubic yards).

The condition of the existing turf and soil can influence removal expenses.

For example, thick, well-established turf with compacted soil may require more labour and could slightly increase the total cost you’re quoted by a professional.

Removing old turf ensures that you can get a clean, even surface for new turf to establish itself. It also helps to prevent weeds or other unwanted plants from affecting the fresh lawn.

Additional Turf Installation Costs

When planning a turf installation, it’s essential to consider more than just the basics of turf and labour. Many gardens benefit from optional services and materials that enhance turf quality, longevity, and ease of maintenance.

Below, we break down the most common extra costs so you can budget effectively and get the most out of your turfing project.

Topsoil Cost

To ensure a good foundation for new turf, adding a layer of topsoil is often recommended.

A depth of 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) of topsoil is usually recommended by most professionals. Around 5 cm is generally sufficient for most standard installations and will provide enough nutrients and root support for new turf without needing to budget for excessive topsoil costs.

Garden Size	Approximate Area	Topsoil Cost
Small Garden	20m² – 40m²	£50 – £160
Average Garden	50m² – 100m²	£100 – £400
Large Garden	150m² – 200m²	£300 – £800

Topsoil generally costs around £40 to £80 per tonne (1 cubic metre is roughly equivalent to 1.3 tonnes, depending on soil density).

Preparation Costs

Before new turf can be laid, preparing the soil is crucial to ensure a strong foundation and healthy growth. Preparation costs cover several steps needed to ready the area, typically ranging from £2 to £5 per m².

Garden Size	Approximate Area	Preparation Cost
Small Garden	20m² – 40 m²	£70 – £140
Average Garden	50m² – 100 m²	£175 – £350
Large Garden	150m² – 200 m²	£525 – £700

Here’s what is typically included in preparation:

• Spreading and Leveling Topsoil: After purchasing topsoil, it needs to be spread and levelled out to ensure there’s an even and smooth surface for the turf to establish roots in. This usually accounts for the majority of preparation labour costs.

• Basic Ground Preparation: For gardens that need light levelling or minor adjustments to the soil surface, preparation costs often cover simple grading to create a uniform area for the new turf.

• Soil Tamping or Compacting: Some installers may lightly tamp or compact the soil after levelling to improve soil stability and ensure the turf sits flush with the ground.

By covering these core preparation tasks, tradespeople ensure the ground is ready for new turf, helping homeowners avoid common issues like poor rooting or uneven growth.

For gardens with uneven terrain or slopes, substantial re-levelling may incur extra charges beyond the standard preparation rate, often quoted based on time or equipment needed.

Weed or Pest Control Costs

Getting your garden ready for new turf might occasionally call for weed or pest control treatments. These measures can prevent future problems and help the turf establish itself more effectively.

That said, such treatments are usually only necessary if there’s an existing issue. In most cases, basic preparation will suffice. However, when weeds or pests are present, addressing them beforehand can be a crucial step to ensure the health and longevity of your new lawn.

Weed Control Cost

If the garden has significant weed growth, a pre-turf weed treatment may be advisable.

Weed control typically costs £50 to £100 for a standard treatment across an average-sized garden (50m² – 100 m²). This helps prevent weeds from competing with the new turf for nutrients and water.

This treatment is especially useful for gardens with a history of recurring weeds, but may not be needed if the area is relatively weed-free.

Pest Control Cost

In some gardens, pests like grubs, ants, or beetles can damage new turf by feeding on the roots — leading to patches or uneven growth.

If there are visible signs of pests or a history of pest issues, a pre-treatment can help protect the new lawn. Pest control treatments generally cost between £50 and £150, depending on the extent of the infestation and the methods used.

Lawn Fertiliser and Treatment Costs

Applying fertiliser before and after laying new turf can provide essential nutrients, helping the grass establish strong roots and grow evenly.

Here’s a look at how much it costs:

Garden Size	Approximate Area	Total Fertiliser Cost
Small Garden	20m² – 40m²	£40 – £60
Average Garden	50m² – 100m²	£60 – £80
Large Garden	150m² – 200m²	£80 – £100

Note: Costs will vary based on fertiliser type and supplier.

Fertilizer treatment is not always necessary — many homeowners completely skip this step to save on the cost of installing a new turf.

However, applying fertilizer before and after turf installation can make your turf more resilient and facilitate vibrant, healthy growth. It’s particularly recommended if you’re aiming for a lush, low-maintenance lawn or if the soil has been neglected or lacks nutrients.

Lawn Edging Cost

Garden edging creates a defined boundary between the lawn and areas like garden beds or pathways, helping keep the turf in place and reducing required maintenance (e.g., trimming and weeding along edges).

There are three types of lawn edging you can choose from:

• Plastic: Affordable and easy to install, costing £5 to £10 per metre. However, it may need replacing sooner than other materials.

• Metal: Sleek and durable, with a modern appearance, metal edging costs £10 to £15 per metre.

• Stone or Brick: A classic choice with high durability but requires more skill to install, costing £10 to £20 per metre.

Edging installation usually costs £5 to £10 per metre. This puts the total cost of edging for an average-sized garden (20 – 30 metres of edging) at between £200 to £600, depending on material and layout.

Lawn Rolling Cost

Lawn rolling is typically included within the standard installation cost for laying new turf by most tradespeople in the UK. It’s worth confirming with your landscaper whether lawn rolling is part of their service to avoid unexpected costs and ensure your turf has the best start.

Rolling the turf after installation is a crucial step that improves soil contact, which helps the grass roots establish securely and promotes even growth.

If lawn rolling is not included in your installation cost, it can usually be added at an additional cost of around £1 to £2 per m². For an average-sized garden (50m² – 100m²), this would mean an extra £50 to £200 for the rolling process alone.

How Much Does Maintenance for a New Lawn Cost?

Keeping a newly turfed lawn in optimal condition requires ongoing maintenance, including regular mowing, feeding, watering, and occasional aeration or weed control.

Below is an overview of typical annual maintenance costs for an average-sized garden (50m² – 100m²) in the UK.

Maintenance Task	Frequency	Estimated Annual Cost
Mowing	Weekly (during growth season)	£400 – £800
Fertilising	2 - 4 times per year	£40 – £200
Watering	Seasonally (Summer)	£50 – £100
Weed Control	1 - 2 times per year	£50 – £200
Aeration	Once per year	£50 – £100

The total ongoing maintenance costs for a typical UK garden range from £590 to £1,400 per year, depending on the level of care required and whether homeowners perform any tasks themselves.

Consistent maintenance is essential for keeping your lawn healthy, attractive, and resilient. While it does require ongoing effort and expense, this investment pays off by ensuring your garden remains in top condition year-round.

Cutting Grass Cost

During the main growing season (spring through early autumn), regular mowing is essential to keep the lawn healthy and well-maintained.

For a standard garden, professional mowing services typically cost £20 to £40 per visit, adding up to an estimated £400 to £800 per year for weekly mowing.

If you’re comfortable handling this task yourself, investing in a lawn mower can lead to significant savings over time.

A basic wired electric lawnmower cost between £70 and £150, cordless electric lawnmowers cost around £150 to £300, and petrol lawnmowers cost between £200 to £500. The initial investment in a mower will be quickly recouped (typically in a single year).

Fertilising Grass Cost

Applying fertiliser 2 to 4 times a year helps replenish soil nutrients and support lawn health. Fertilising services for an average-sized garden usually cost around £20 to £50 per treatment, leading to an annual cost of £40 to £200 (depending on frequency).

For best results, lawn fertiliser is typically applied in early spring to kickstart growth after winter, again in late spring or early summer to sustain growth, and once more in autumn to prepare the lawn for colder months. Some homeowners may opt for an additional summer application, especially if the lawn is heavily used or if soil nutrients are naturally low.

Regular fertilising is crucial for maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn that’s better equipped to resist weeds and pests. It’s a worthwhile part of any lawn care routine, especially for those aiming for a lush, green finish.

For high-use lawns, fertilising about 3 to 4 times a year is ideal, while lower-traffic areas will usually do just fine with only two applications every year.

Watering Grass Cost

In the UK, watering lawns isn’t always necessary due to the generally mild and wet climate. However, during unusually dry periods, especially in summer, some additional watering can help prevent the grass from turning brown or becoming patchy.

For an average garden, the additional water usage can cost around £5 to £10 per cubic metre (m³), resulting in an estimated £50 to £100 annually if watering is done selectively during dry spells. Many homeowners in the UK choose to water only as needed, focusing on high-traffic areas or spots prone to drying out.

For eco-friendly and cost-saving watering, many UK homeowners are starting to use water butts or rain barrels to collect rainwater for use during dry spells.

Weed Control Cost

Even with good lawn care practices, weeds can occasionally become an issue, as seeds are often carried into lawns by wind, animals, or foot traffic. Left unchecked, weeds can compete with grass for nutrients, water, and sunlight, affecting the lawn’s appearance and health.

Most lawns benefit from 1 to 2 weed control treatments per year, especially during spring and autumn when weeds tend to germinate and grow actively. These treatments typically cost around £50 to £100 per session, leading to an annual cost of £50 to £200 depending on the frequency and extent of treatment needed.

While homeowners can perform basic weed control themselves using store-bought products, professional treatments are often more effective and longer-lasting.

Aeration Cost

Aerating the lawn is an essential maintenance task that helps prevent soil compaction, promotes better root growth, and improves overall grass health.

Compacted soil can restrict air, water, and nutrients from reaching the grass roots. This leads to poor growth and uneven patches. Aeration loosens the soil, allowing roots to grow deeper and access the necessary resources for a healthy, vibrant lawn.

Lawn aeration is typically performed once a year, often in autumn when the grass is still growing and can recover before winter. However, some homeowners with high-traffic lawns may benefit from twice-yearly aeration.

For a standard-sized garden (50m² – 100m²), professional aeration typically costs between £50 and £100 per session. Core aeration may be priced slightly higher than spike aeration due to the added labour and equipment needed, but it is often more effective, especially for compacted or heavily used lawns.

While homeowners can rent or buy aeration equipment for DIY use, professional aeration services often yield better results. Landscapers have access to specialised equipment and can ensure even, consistent coverage across the lawn.

When Can You Walk on New Turf?

Allowing new turf enough time to establish strong roots is essential to ensure a healthy, long-lasting lawn. You can typically use a freshly laid lawn as normal after around 4 to 6 weeks.

Here’s a general timeline for when it’s safe to start using your new turf:

• First 7 to 14 days — Completely avoid walking on the turf during this initial period. The grass needs uninterrupted time to root into the soil.

• After 2 to 3 weeks — Light foot traffic may be possible at this stage, depending on how well the turf is rooting. You can gently test a corner of the turf by lifting it—if it resists lifting, the roots are beginning to establish. If any areas feel loose or lift easily, continue to avoid walking on the lawn.

• After 4 to 6 Weeks — The turf should be well-rooted and ready for regular use, including mowing and typical foot traffic. However, always check that the turf feels firmly established before introducing heavier use or regular activity.

Taking the time to allow the turf to settle fully will create a strong, resilient lawn that can withstand foot traffic and regular use for years to come. Walking on freshly laid turf too soon will disrupt root growth and could lead to a patchy lawn.

FAQs

What Time of the Year Should You Lay Turf?

The best times to lay turf in the UK are in early autumn or mid-spring when temperatures are moderate, and rainfall is more frequent. These conditions help turf establish strong roots without needing excessive watering or risking heat stress.

Can You Walk On Turf Straight Away?

No, you should avoid walking on freshly laid turf. Wait at least 7 to 14 days to give the roots time to establish. Light foot traffic can be allowed after 2 to 3 weeks, but it’s best to wait 4 to 6 weeks before regular use.

Can You Overwater New Turf?

Yes, overwatering new turf can create soggy soil, hindering root establishment and promoting disease. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, especially in the first two weeks, but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering as the roots start to establish.

How Many Years Does Turf Last?

With proper care, turf can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular mowing, fertilising, and occasional aeration help maintain turf health, ensuring it stays vibrant and resilient over time.

How Much Turf Can You Lay in a Day?

A skilled professional can lay up to 100m² of turf in a day, depending on the garden layout and preparation needed. If you’re laying turf as a DIY enthusiast, then you should expect to lay up to about 50m² of turf in a day.

Should You Put Sand Under Turf?

In most cases, sand isn’t necessary to put under turf. However, if the soil is clay-heavy or poorly draining, mixing sand into the soil can improve drainage and prevent waterlogging, helping turf establish more effectively.