How Much Does Synthetic Artificial Grass Cost? [2024]

Have you ever admired a neighbour's lawn from a distance and wondered how it stayed so lush and green with seemingly no maintenance or even watering?

Odds are that natural looking grass is actually synthetic grass, which you will also see advertised as artificial grass or synthetic turf. The technology and manufacturing behind artificial grass has come a long way from earlier versions, which looked nothing like the real thing. Modern synthetic grass can be so realistic looking, it can easily fool you - and your neighbours!

This article will help you work out what options there are, what to think about when installing artificial grass and how much your project could cost.

Let’s start by looking at the numbers. 

How much does artificial grass or synthetic turf cost?

The average cost of synthetic artificial grass in Australia ranges from $40 to $75 per square metre, including supply and installation. 

The cost will vary depending on the: 

• Quality of the artificial grass
• Size of the area you want covered
• How much prep work is required 

Prep work includes clearing the existing turf/grass, levelling the surface, and laying the sand bed and artificial grass.

For supply and installation of synthetic grass - you can expect to pay from: 

• $50 to $75 per square metre for low to mid-priced synthetic grass
• $75 to $100 per square metre to supply and install better quality artificial grass or a more complex installation

For an idea of how a quote for synthetic grass installation may be broken down, here's a breakdown of all the individual job costs:

• Grass: $20 to $50 per square metre
• Install: $20 to $25 per square metre
• Site prep: $5 to $10 per square metre
• Edging: $5 to $10 per metre
• Sand base: $5 to $10 per square metre

To get the most accurate idea of how much artificial grass is going to cost in your space, it's essential to get quotes directly from synthetic grass suppliers. At hipages, we recommend getting at least 3 quotes so you can compare apples with apples.

Why install synthetic grass or artificial turf?

What is behind the move to artificial grass and should you choose it over traditional grass? Synthetic turf has a number of benefits going for it over the real version, including:

• It saves you time, with little to no maintenance required
• You don’t need to water it, which will help you save on your water will 
• There is no need to cut or weed it
• It has no need for fertilisers
• It is non toxic, making it environmentally friendly, as well as child and pet friendly
• Low cost compared to natural grass over the long term

On the downside, cheaper synthetic grass can look and feel very plastic, and may get hot underfoot. If you have a pet, you need to be sure to install a type of synthetic grass that ‘breathes’ and allows odours to filter through. 

How long does synthetic grass last?

If you are investing in synthetic grass you will want to know how long it will last. If you choose a quality product, it should come with a warranty of at least 10 years or more. Your synthetic grass should last for up to 20 years before it starts to wear and need replacing.

Choosing synthetic grass: factors to look out for

When selecting synthetic grass,you’ll need to think about the colour, variety, and softness.

Synthetic grass now comes in a variety of natural-looking green shades, some with added dried glass blades for enhanced realism. Choose a variety that resembles natural lawns in your area for a very realistic look. Finally, consider softness based on how you use your lawn. Opt for a firmer artificial grass for less-used lawns, while a softer, springier grass is ideal for active lawns with kids and pets. 

There are synthetic grasses that are made to be cooler than traditional synthetic grass. These products use a special type of yarn to reflect infrared radiation, which helps to keep the temperature of the surface cooler. Thicker piles also help to trap cooler air near the surface, so the grass is cooler underfoot.

Getting quotes for artificial grass

You can get quotes for artificial grass by posting a job through hipages and receiving up to 3 quotes from professional businesses. Make sure you compare each business's products and services based on their prices, reputation and installation guarantees. Some questions to ask before you hire them, include:

• Can you provide a detailed written quote?
• What warranty does your work come with?
• How long will my job take?
• When can you start my job?