cost of turfing a garden

The Cost of Turfing a Garden A Comprehensive Guide

Turfing a garden is an excellent way to transform your outdoor space into a lush, green haven. Whether you wish to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, create a space for children to play, or even host garden parties, laying turf can bring a variety of benefits. However, before embarking on this landscaping project, it's essential to understand the costs associated with turfing a garden. This article breaks down these costs and helps you make an informed decision.

Initial Costs of Turfing

The first step in calculating the cost of turfing your garden is determining the size of the area to be turfed. Turf is usually sold by the square meter, and prices can vary depending on the type of grass you choose. On average, high-quality turf can range from £4 to £8 per square meter. So, for a standard garden of approximately 50 square meters, you could expect to pay between £200 and £400 just for the turf itself.

Preparation and Soil Costs

Before laying turf, proper preparation of the garden space is crucial to ensure a healthy lawn. This preparation typically includes clearing the area of any existing grass, weeds, and debris, leveling the ground, and possibly adding topsoil or fertilizer. The cost for soil and preparation can range from £150 to £300, depending on the condition of your existing garden and how much work you need to do.

If your soil is particularly poor or compacted, you might need to invest in soil testing and amendments to create an optimal environment for your new turf. Engaging a professional landscaper for this process can escalate costs further but may be worth it for better results.

Installation Costs

If you decide to hire professionals to lay the turf, labor costs will contribute significantly to your overall budget. The expense for professional turf installation ranges from £5 to £10 per square meter, which includes the labor and sometimes the tools and materials needed for installation. For a 50 square meter garden, this could add an additional £250 to £500 to your expenses. However, if you're comfortable with DIY projects, you can save a considerable sum by laying the turf yourself.

Additional Costs to Consider

1. Watering Newly laid turf needs to be watered regularly to establish roots. Depending on your local water rates, this could add to your monthly expenses, especially during hot weather.

2. Maintenance After installation, you’ll need to maintain the turf, including mowing, fertilizing, and pest control. These costs can vary, but budgeting around £100 to £200 per year is a reasonable estimate for standard maintenance.

3. Consultation Fees If you opt to hire a landscape designer to help with your garden's layout and planning, be prepared for consultation fees which can range from £50 to £150 per hour.

4. Accessories Consider additional accessories such as garden edging, paths, or decorative stones to enhance your new lawn. These can range widely in price, depending on materials and design.

Conclusion

The total cost of turfing a garden can therefore range from a few hundred pounds for a small DIY project to over a thousand for professional installation with extensive preparation. On average, for a medium-sized garden, you might expect to spend between £600 to £1500, depending on choices made regarding turf quality, preparation, installation, and ongoing maintenance.

Investing in a proper lawn can enhance your outdoor experience immensely, providing a beautiful space for relaxation or recreation. By understanding the costs involved and planning accordingly, you can achieve the garden of your dreams while staying within your budget. Always consider seeking quotes from multiple suppliers and professionals to ensure you receive the best value for your investment. With careful preparation and execution, turfing can bring long-lasting beauty to your home.