Turf calculator
Work out how many turf rolls you need to lay a new lawn, from its area and a waste allowance for cutting and edges.
Result
Turf rolls required
How to use this calculator
- Measure the length and width of the lawn area.
- Leave the waste allowance at the 10% default, or increase it for an irregular-shaped lawn.
- Read the number of turf rolls to order.
Assumptions
- A standard turf roll is assumed to cover 1m² — always check your supplier's exact roll size, as this varies slightly between suppliers.
Technical details: what the fields mean
- Length
length - The longest side of the lawn area.
- Width
width - The other side of the lawn area.
- Waste allowance
wastePercent - Extra to cover cut edges and offcuts around borders and curves.
Methodology
Rolls required = area ÷ 1m² per roll, after the waste allowance — a standard UK turf roll covers approximately 1m².
Worked example
8m × 5m lawn, 10% waste
Inputs: length=8, width=5, wastePercent=10
Result: 44 turf rolls required
Practical guidance
- Lay turf within 24–48 hours of delivery — it deteriorates quickly once rolled.
- Stagger the joints between rolls like brickwork for a stronger, less visible finish.
Common mistakes
- Leaving turf rolled up for more than a day or two before laying, which can kill the grass underneath.
- Under-ordering for a lawn with lots of curves or borders, which increases cutting waste.
FAQs
How many turf rolls do I need for an 8m x 5m lawn?
With a 10% waste allowance, 44 rolls, assuming a standard 1m² roll.
How soon should I lay turf after delivery?
Within 24–48 hours — turf deteriorates quickly once rolled up.