A well-maintained lawn enhances the beauty of any home, but keeping natural grass in top shape requires time, effort, and money.
Homeowners often wonder whether fake grass is a better alternative to traditional lawns. The cost of installation and long-term maintenance plays a key role in making this decision.
In this blog, we’ll compare the synthetic grass installation cost with traditional lawn maintenance to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding the Cost of Artificial Grass Installation
Installing fake grass requires an upfront investment, but it pays off in the long run with reduced maintenance expenses. The synthetic grass installation cost depends on factors like the quality of turf, labor charges, and site preparation.
Let’s break down the initial installation costs to help you understand what to expect:
1. Initial Installation Costs
The artificial grass installation cost depends on several factors, including the quality of the turf, area size, and labor charges. Here’s a breakdown:
- Artificial Grass Price – The cost of fake grass typically ranges from $20 to $50 per square meter, depending on quality and brand.
- Preparation Costs – Before installing, you need to clear existing grass, level the ground, and add a base layer, which can add $10 to $20 per square meter.
- Labor Costs – If you choose professional fake grass installation, labor costs can range from $30 to $50 per square meter.
On average, the total synthetic grass installation cost for a medium-sized yard (50 square meters) can be between $3,000 to $5,000.
2. DIY vs. Professional Installation
Many homeowners wonder how to lay artificial grass themselves to save on installation costs. DIY artificial grass installation can save up to 50% of labor costs, but it requires the right tools and skills. If unsure, you can always hire tradies to ensure a professional finish.
Ongoing Maintenance Cost of Artificial Grass
One major advantage of fake grass installation is its low maintenance. Unlike natural grass, synthetic turf does not require watering, mowing, or fertilizing. The only maintenance costs include:
- Brushing & Cleaning – Regular brushing to keep the fibers upright.
- Weed Control – Occasional weed removal from the edges.
- Minor Repairs – Fixing seams or replacing worn-out patches.
Annual maintenance costs for artificial grass are estimated to be $50 to $150, making it a cost-effective long-term option.
Traditional Lawn Maintenance Costs
Maintaining a natural lawn comes with ongoing expenses that add up over time. From installation to regular upkeep, the costs can be significant.
Understanding these expenses will help you compare them with artificial grass installation costs and decide which option is more budget-friendly in the long run.
1. Initial Setup Costs
A natural lawn requires proper soil preparation, seeding, or sod installation. The costs include:
- Sod Installation – Between $5 to $15 per square meter.
- Soil Preparation & Fertilizers – Costs range from $300 to $1,000, depending on lawn size.
2. Ongoing Maintenance Costs
Maintaining a traditional lawn involves recurring expenses, including:
- Watering Costs – A natural lawn requires 5,000 to 10,000 liters of water per month, costing $200 to $500 annually.
- Mowing & Trimming – Lawn mowing services can cost $30 to $60 per session, with annual costs ranging from $500 to $1,200.
- Fertilizing & Pest Control – To keep grass healthy, fertilizers and pest control products can add another $100 to $300 annually.
The estimated annual maintenance cost for a natural lawn is between $800 to $2,000, which adds up significantly over the years.
Long-Term Cost Comparison
| Expense | Artificial Grass | Traditional Lawn |
| Initial Cost (50 sqm) | $3,000 – $5,000 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Annual Maintenance | $50 – $150 | $800 – $2,000 |
| 10-Year Cost | $3,500 – $6,500 | $9,500 – $23,000 |
Pros & Cons of Artificial Grass vs. Natural Lawn
Choosing between fake grass and a natural lawn depends on factors like maintenance, cost, and long-term benefits.
Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of artificial grass installation compared to maintaining real grass.
Artificial Grass
✔ Low Maintenance – No mowing, watering, or fertilizing.
✔ Long-Term Savings – Higher upfront cost but lower maintenance expenses.
✔ Durability – Lasts 10 to 15 years with proper care.
✔ Eco-Friendly – Saves water, reduces fertilizer and pesticide use.
✖ High Initial Cost – Expensive to install.
✖ Surface Temperature – Can get hot in direct sunlight.
Traditional Lawn
✔ Natural Feel & Smell – Real grass provides a natural look.
✔ Better Cooling Effect – Absorbs heat and provides a cooler surface.
✔ Lower Initial Cost – Cheaper to install compared to artificial turf.
✖ High Maintenance – Requires regular watering, mowing, and fertilizing.
✖ Long-Term Costs – Recurring expenses add up over time.
Which Option is Best for You?
The choice between artificial grass and traditional lawn depends on your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans.
If you want a low-maintenance, long-lasting solution with long-term savings, fake grass installation is a great investment. However, if you prefer the natural feel of real grass and don’t mind regular upkeep, a traditional lawn might be better.
If you’re considering installing artificial grass, you can hire tradies to ensure a professional finish and save time. Whether you go DIY or professional, knowing how to install synthetic grass properly will help maximize its lifespan.
Final Thoughts
While the synthetic grass installation cost is higher upfront, it offers long-term savings with minimal maintenance.
A traditional lawn may be cheaper initially but requires significant ongoing expenses for watering, mowing, and fertilization. In the long run, artificial grass proves to be the more cost-effective and convenient option for homeowners.
If you’re ready to make the switch, explore your options and hire local tradies for a seamless installation. Investing in high-quality artificial turf ensures a beautiful, hassle-free lawn that lasts for years!
