Guide

Artificial Grass vs Real Turf: 10-Year Cost

Artificial grass costs far more upfront than turf but nothing to mow. Over ten years, which actually works out cheaper? Here's the maths.

Upfront cost

Natural turf is remarkably cheap to buy — often around £5 per square metre or less — plus topsoil if the ground needs improving. Artificial grass is a different order of cost: £15 to £35 per square metre for the grass, plus a membrane, joining tape, pins and usually an aggregate base. Installed properly, artificial grass can cost several times more than turf to lay.

Ongoing cost

This is where it flips. A real lawn needs mowing, feeding, watering in dry spells, and occasional reseeding or scarifying. Artificial grass needs an occasional brush and rinse. Over a decade, the time and cost of lawn care is significant.

The ten-year picture

Add it up and the two often land closer than the upfront gap suggests. Turf wins clearly on initial cost; artificial grass narrows the gap through zero maintenance and can pull ahead if you'd otherwise pay someone to mow. Use our artificial grass calculator and turf calculator to price both for your own garden.

Beyond cost

It's not only money. A real lawn is cooler, better for wildlife and drainage, and feels natural underfoot. Artificial grass is spotless year-round and perfect where grass won't grow or gets churned to mud. The right answer depends on how you use the space.