Turf and soil
Turf is sold by the square metre and soil by the cubic metre, but the installed lawn also includes ground preparation, levels and watering. This page does not publish a price for either.
The turf calculator gives the area of a rectangle and the soil volume for a depth you choose. Use it to check a quote's quantities, not to invent a total.
This guide does not publish a dollar figure. We only print a price when a government agency, industry body or manufacturer has published a rate we can link to. Use the factors and the questions when you compare quotes.
What changes the price
- Preparation. Old lawn, rubble and levels have to be dealt with before turf goes down. That labour is the bulk of many jobs.
- Soil depth. A thin layer over clay is a different result from a deeper blended soil. Agree the depth.
- Turf type. Warm-season and cool-season grasses suit different climates. Name the variety.
- Access and waste. Carting soil in and spoil out, especially through a house, changes the quote.
- Water. New turf needs water immediately. Ask who sets up the first watering.
Questions to ask
- What area and soil depth are in the price?
- Which turf variety is supplied?
- Is excavation and disposal of the old surface included?
- Who waters it for the first weeks?
- What voids the warranty, such as drying out?
- Are edges, a mowing strip or irrigation extra?
Common questions
Does the calculator price soil?
No. It converts the area and a depth in millimetres into cubic metres. Delivery and spreading are not in that number.
Is instant turf the only option?
No. Seed is a different programme. Ask the landscaper to quote the option you actually want.