Hip to be square - how to measure turf

Calculating the size of the area as accurately as possible is an important first step to organising your turf project.

Turf is measured in square metres.
 
To calculate square metres, start by measuring the length and the width of the area using metres and multiplying these together (an area 8m long by 6m wide = 48m²).  
 
It is always best to have this information on hand before making enquiries or sourcing a quote.  Knowing your measurements will not only give you an indication how turf you require, it will also impact how much soil you may need for the area, the total weight of the order for transport, any delivery/laying costs and availability dates. As a guide for larger orders, usually 50m² equals one pallet of turf.

Don’t use estimates - overestimate the amount needed, you’ll be wasting money and if you underestimate, you won’t have enough turf to complete your lawn.
 
Measuring tips

• Get a piece of paper and sketch out the area
• Use a tape measure
• Double check your measurements
• Difficult shape?  Break down your area into smaller sections and basic shapes, measure them separately and add the totals together

 
When ordering turf, it is a good idea to round up your measurements and possibly add a 5% contingency to make sure you have enough. For complex areas, maybe add 10% to allow for any miscalculations. An example:  8.2m long by 5.9m wide = 48.38m², we would suggest ordering 50m². 
 
There is nothing worse than falling short at the finish line by a couple of pieces. Having a little bit extra outweighs any delays in finishing, including your time and fuel costs travelling back to the farm to pick up more turf or any additional delivery fees and laying surcharges.
 
We harvest our turf in slabs. We find laying slabs of turf much easier than rolls. Drop the turf from waist height and nudge it into place with your foot. It's easier on the back and legs - No extra bending! Each slab of turf is approx 0.5m². (2 x 0.5m² slabs = 1m²).