How it works
The formula
strips = width across ÷ roll width, rounded up (laid whichever way orders less)
turf to order = strips × (length + trim) × roll width
infill = area × lb per sq ft; nails = (edges + seams) ÷ spacing
turf to order = strips × (length + trim) × roll width
infill = area × lb per sq ft; nails = (edges + seams) ÷ spacing
Assumptions
- Roll widths: turf is sold cut to length in fixed widths; Home Depot lists 7.5, 9, 12, 13 ft among others.
- Layout: strips run one way across the area; we try both directions and order the one with less turf. Keep the pile direction the same on every strip.
- Infill: suppliers give about 5 to 8 kg per m², 1.0 to 1.6 lb per sq ft; we start at 1.3, in 50 lb bags.
- Nails: installation guides range from every 3 to 4 in to every 12 to 16 in along edges and seams, so set your turf maker's spacing.
Worked example
A 30 × 20 ft yard with 12 ft turf
- 2 strips of 30.5 ft (30 ft + 6 in trim) = 61 linear ft, 732 sq ft
- One 30 ft seam; 780 lb of infill = 16 bags
Turf to order by yard size, 12 ft rolls
| Yard | Strips | Order, sq ft | Infill bags |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 ft | 1 | 126 | 3 |
| 20 × 15 ft | 2 | 372 | 8 |
| 30 × 20 ft | 2 | 732 | 16 |
| 40 × 25 ft | 4 | 1,224 | 26 |
Questions people ask
How much artificial grass do I need?
More than the area: turf comes in fixed-width rolls, so you buy whole strips and trim them. A 30 × 20 ft yard takes 732 sq ft of 12 ft turf for 600 sq ft of lawn.
How much infill per square foot?
Suppliers suggest about 1 to 1.6 lb per sq ft of sand or other infill, depending on the pile height; check your turf's spec.
How do I hide the seams?
Run every strip with the pile leaning the same way, butt the edges tight over seam tape with adhesive, and brush the fibers up after the infill goes down.