Planning Artificial Turf Roll Widths and Cuts

Understanding Artificial Turf Roll Dimensions

Artificial turf is typically supplied in large rolls. While specific dimensions can vary by product line and supplier, common roll widths are often 12 feet or 15 feet. Lengths can be cut to order, but the fixed width is a primary consideration for your layout. Knowing these standard widths is the first step in planning how the turf will cover your project area.

If you used a 12-foot roll, you would need two rolls, one full 12-foot width and an 8-foot width from another roll, potentially leading to more waste if not planned carefully.

Lumber Plus offers various artificial turf systems, including options suitable for residential, pet, and high-traffic applications. These systems are designed for durability and a natural appearance, and their roll dimensions are a key factor in project planning. Always confirm the exact roll widths available for your chosen artificial turf product before finalizing your layout.

Measuring Your Project Area Accurately

Before you can plan your cuts, you need precise measurements of your project area. Measure the length and width of the space at multiple points, especially if it's irregularly shaped. Account for any obstacles, curves, or distinct zones within the area. Sketching your project area to scale on graph paper can be extremely helpful for visualizing how the turf rolls will fit.

Consider the final edge treatments. Will the turf be butted against a hardscape, like pavers or a patio? Will it wrap around a garden bed or be trimmed to a specific border? These details influence the overall dimensions you need to cover and where seams might fall.

Developing a Layout Strategy

The goal of a layout strategy is to cover your project area with the fewest possible seams and the least amount of waste. Start by orienting the turf rolls in the direction that minimizes cuts and maximizes coverage. For rectangular areas, this often means running the rolls parallel to the longest dimension.

Try different orientations on your scaled drawing. If you have a 25-foot by 30-foot area and 15-foot wide rolls, laying the rolls along the 30-foot length would require two 15-foot wide rolls, each 30 feet long. This would create one seam down the middle. If you laid them along the 25-foot length, you'd need two 15-foot wide rolls, each 25 feet long, also with one seam.

Consider the 'grain' or pile direction of the turf. For a consistent appearance, all pieces of turf should be laid with the pile facing the same direction. This is particularly important for larger areas where multiple rolls are used. Typically, turf is laid so the pile faces the primary viewing angle, enhancing its natural look.

Worked Example: Minimizing Waste for an L-Shaped Yard

Let's consider an L-shaped backyard. One section measures 15 feet by 20 feet, and the other section, extending from the 15-foot side, measures 10 feet by 10 feet. We will use artificial turf rolls that are 15 feet wide.

The total area can be broken down into two rectangles: A (15 ft x 20 ft) and B (10 ft x 10 ft).

Option 1: Laying rolls along the longest dimension where possible.

For section A (15 ft x 20 ft): A single 15-foot wide roll cut to 20 feet long perfectly covers this section. (15 ft x 20 ft = 300 sq ft).

For section B (10 ft x 10 ft): This requires a piece 10 feet wide and 10 feet long. From another 15-foot wide roll, you can cut a 10-foot long piece. The remaining part of this roll would be 15 feet wide by (total ordered length - 10 feet). If you only ordered enough for this cut, you would have a 15 ft x 10 ft section, with a 5 ft x 10 ft offcut (50 sq ft).

Total material purchased: One 15 ft x 20 ft roll (300 sq ft) and one 15 ft x 10 ft roll (150 sq ft). Total 450 sq ft. Total area covered is 400 sq ft (300 + 100), with 50 sq ft of offcut.

This example illustrates how a single roll can cover a full width, and smaller sections can be cut from another roll, minimizing the number of distinct roll purchases and potential waste.

Planning for Seams and Cuts

Seams are an inevitable part of covering larger areas with artificial turf. The goal is to make them as inconspicuous as possible. Plan your layout so seams fall in less visible areas or along natural breaks in the landscape, such as pathways or garden edges. Avoid placing seams where they will receive heavy foot traffic, if possible.

When planning cuts, always measure twice and cut once. Use a sharp utility knife or specialized turf cutter for clean edges. It's often recommended to cut turf from the backing side to ensure a straight line and avoid damaging the fibers. Remember to account for any required trimming along edges or around obstacles. Always allow for a small margin of error and extra material for precise trimming during installation.

Before you order

• Confirm the exact roll widths available for your chosen artificial turf product.
• Measure your project area accurately, noting all dimensions and irregularities.
• Sketch your project area to scale, including obstacles and desired turf boundaries.
• Experiment with different roll orientations on your sketch to optimize coverage and minimize seams.
• Ensure all turf pieces will be laid with the pile facing the same direction for a consistent appearance.
• Identify potential seam locations and plan to place them in less conspicuous areas.
• Calculate the total linear feet of each required roll width, accounting for cuts and trimming allowances.
• Consider ordering a small percentage of extra material (e.g., 5-10%) to account for potential errors or future repairs.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

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