Artificial Grass Quotes in Ireland
Compare up to 4 local artificial grass professionals. Free, no obligation quotes.
Artificial grass has become increasingly popular in Irish gardens, particularly for families with children and dogs, for shaded gardens where real grass struggles, and for homeowners who want a green lawn year-round without the weekly mowing. Modern artificial grass looks remarkably realistic and feels soft underfoot, a far cry from the plastic-looking astroturf of a decade ago.
The appeal is zero maintenance: no mowing, no fertilising, no watering, no bare patches, no mud tracked into the house. In Ireland's climate, where real lawns can be waterlogged and unusable from November to March, artificial grass provides a usable, clean surface year-round. For families with young children, it eliminates muddy knees and ruined clothes.
Quality varies enormously. Cheap artificial grass (under €15/m2) looks flat, shiny, and obviously fake. Mid-range (€20 to €30/m2) is the sweet spot, looking natural with a mix of pile heights and colours. Premium (€30 to €45/m2) is virtually indistinguishable from real grass and feels the most natural. Pile height, density, and the quality of the backing all affect appearance and durability.
Installation quality matters as much as the grass itself. The base preparation (excavation, compacted aggregate, sand) determines whether the surface stays flat and drains properly. Poorly installed artificial grass develops puddles, wrinkles, and visible seams. Comparing quotes from experienced installers who show you samples and completed projects ensures a result you will be happy with for 10 to 15 years.
How Much Does Artificial Grass Cost in Ireland?
Typical pricing for artificial grass services in Ireland (2026):
| Service | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial grass (supply + install, per sq m) | €50 | €90 | Grass quality, base prep |
| Small garden (30 sq m) | €1,500 | €2,700 | Base preparation, edging |
| Medium garden (60 sq m) | €3,000 | €5,400 | Base preparation, drainage |
Artificial grass costs include the grass material, base preparation (excavation, aggregate, sand), and installation. The grass material itself ranges from €15 to €45 per square metre. Base preparation and installation typically double the material cost. Removal of existing lawn, levelling, and edging are factored in. The total installed cost per square metre is the figure to compare. Dublin rates 15-20% above the national average.
What to Expect: The Artificial Grass Process
- Site survey and measurement. Discussion of grass samples and pile options.
- Excavation of existing lawn (typically 75-100mm deep).
- Base preparation: compacted aggregate layer and levelling sand layer.
- Weed membrane laid to prevent growth through the grass.
- Artificial grass rolled out, trimmed to shape, and joined at seams.
- Infill sand brushed into the grass to weigh it down and keep the fibres upright.
- Edging secured and site cleaned.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the cheapest grass. Low-quality grass looks fake, fades quickly, and flattens. Spend at least €20-€25/m2 on the material for a realistic look.
- Inadequate base preparation. Sand alone is not a base. Compacted aggregate is essential for a flat, well-drained, stable surface.
- Not including a weed membrane. Without it, weeds push through the grass within a year.
- Ignoring drainage. In Ireland's climate, drainage through the grass and base is essential. Cheap grass without drainage holes creates puddles.
- Visible seams. Poor joining technique creates obvious lines across the lawn. Experienced installers minimise visible seams.
What to Look for When Hiring an Artificial Grass Professional
Always check that your chosen professional is properly insured and has relevant experience for your specific job.
Questions to Ask Your Artificial Grass Professional
- Can I see samples of different grass options? Touch and see the grass in person. Photos do not convey texture and colour accurately.
- What base preparation is included? Excavation + compacted aggregate + sand = a flat, well-drained surface. Sand only = puddles and unevenness.
- What drainage does the grass provide? Quality artificial grass has perforated backing for drainage. Cheap grass without drainage holes floods in Irish rain.
- How long will it last? Quality artificial grass lasts 10-15 years. Cheap grass fades and flattens within 3-5 years.
- How do you handle the seams? Visible seams ruin the effect. Ask about joining tape and adhesive methods.
- What guarantee do you offer? Reputable installers offer 5-8 year installation guarantees alongside manufacturer warranties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fully installed, artificial grass costs €50 to €90 per square metre. A 50 m2 garden costs €2,500 to €4,500. This includes excavation, base, weed membrane, grass, infill, and edging. Material-only costs are €15 to €45/m2 but DIY installation is rarely as successful as professional fitting.
Quality artificial grass lasts 10 to 15 years with normal use. High-traffic areas (under swings, goal mouths) wear faster. UV-stabilised grass resists fading in sunlight. Cheaper grass fades and flattens in 3 to 5 years.
Quality artificial grass has perforated backing that allows rainwater to drain through into the aggregate base below. A properly prepared base ensures water drains away rather than pooling. In Ireland's rainfall, drainage is critical. Cheap grass without drainage holes or poor base preparation causes puddles.
Yes. Artificial grass is popular with dog owners because it does not develop bare patches, mud, or waterlogging. Dog urine can be rinsed off with water. Solid waste is picked up as normal. Periodically hosing the grass keeps it fresh. Some manufacturers offer antimicrobial treatments specifically for pet use.
Minimal. Brush occasionally to keep fibres upright (especially in high-traffic areas). Remove leaves and debris. Rinse with water a few times a year. Treat any moss or algae with a mild solution. No mowing, no fertilising, no watering, no edging.
Opinion varies. Some buyers prefer real lawn. Others (especially families with children) see low-maintenance artificial grass as a plus. A quality installation in an appropriate setting (small urban garden, play area, shaded garden where real grass fails) generally does not harm value and can be a selling point.
Artificial Grass Quotes by County
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