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Cheap artificial grass: how to keep costs down
You don't need to overspend to get a good-looking fake lawn. Here's where the money actually goes and how to trim it — without buying something you'll regret.
See your cheapest option →The calculator ranks roll widths by cost so you buy the least grass for your garden.Open the calculatorWhere the cost goes
Three things drive the total: the grass itself (per m²), the base materials, and labour. The single biggest saving is doing the work yourself — a professional supply-and-fit job is typically £45–£70/m², roughly double the DIY cost.
How to cut the grass cost
- Buy the right roll width. This is the big one people miss. Grass comes on fixed-width rolls, so the wrong width wastes metres you've paid for. Our calculator shows which width wastes least for your exact size.
- Choose a sensible pile height. Budget grass (~20mm) is cheaper and hard-wearing — fine for play areas and pets. You don't always need premium 40mm.
- Measure carefully. Ordering too much (or too little and re-ordering) is wasted money.
What NOT to skimp on
Don't skip the base. A weed membrane and a firm, level sub-base (or a foam underlay on hard surfaces) are cheap relative to the grass, and they're what stop weeds and lumps ruining the finish. Cutting these corners costs more later.
Find your lowest-cost option →Free, instant, no sign-up.Try the calculatorWhat's the cheapest way to lay artificial grass?
Do it yourself, choose the roll width that wastes least, and pick a budget-to-mid pile height. That can roughly halve the cost versus hiring a fitter.
Is cheap artificial grass any good?
Budget grass is fine for hard-wearing areas; just check it drains well and is non-toxic. For a natural look in a main lawn, mid-range usually looks better.
How do I avoid wasting money on grass?
Measure accurately and compare roll widths — the calculator shows the least-waste option for your garden.