And don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need more help establishing your new lawn.

How to measure regular lawn shapes

Square or rectangular lawn areas are easy to measure

If your lawn is a nice, straightforward square or rectangle, you’re in luck — this is the simplest shape to measure!

1. Grab a tape measure and get started: Measure the length and width of your lawn in metres. Make sure your tape measure is straight, and try to measure from the longest points. Watch out for any obstacles like garden beds or paths that could interfere with your readings. Keep it simple and smooth!
2. Do the easy math to find your area: Once you have the length and width, multiply them together. For example, if your lawn is 10 metres long and 5 metres wide, the area is 10 x 5 = 50 square metres. Quick, right? This simple step gives you an accurate measure of your lawn’s size.
3. Don’t forget to subtract any obstacles: If you have areas that don’t need turf, like a patio or flower bed, make sure to subtract these from your total measurement. Just measure the obstacle, calculate its area, and subtract that from your total lawn area. It’s as easy as pie!

How to measure triangular lawns is pretty easy with the right approach

Triangles can be fun to measure, too! Here’s how to tackle them:

1. Measure the base and height: For a triangular lawn, use your tape measure to find the base (the bottom side) and the height (the straight line from the base to the opposite corner). Keep everything in metres for consistency, and remember, a little patience goes a long way!
2. Use this quick formula to find the area: The formula for finding the area of a triangle is (base x height) / 2. So, if your triangle’s base is 6 metres and the height is 4 metres, the calculation would be (6 x 4) / 2 = 12 square metres. Easy peasy!
3. Draw it out for clarity: Drawing your lawn on paper and marking where you measure can help you visualise the correct points. It makes everything clearer and helps ensure you’re getting accurate numbers.

Measuring circles doesn’t have to be complicated if you take it step-by-step

Circles might look tricky, but with a little patience, you can nail it!

1. Find the centre and measure the radius: Start by locating the centre of your circular lawn. To measure the radius (the distance from the centre to the edge), place your tape measure at the centre point and extend it straight out to the edge. Take several measurements at different points around the circle to ensure consistency and find an average. Just  like slicing pizza!
2. Simplify the area calculation: For circles, you’ll need to use π (pi), which is approximately 3.14. The formula is π × radius², but let’s keep it simple. If your radius is 3 metres, just think of it as 3.14 x (3 x 3) = 3.14 x 9 = 28.26 square metres. 
3. Double-check for accuracy: Since circles can be a bit finicky, double-check your radius measurements. If the edge of your lawn isn’t perfectly circular, take multiple measurements and average them out to get the most accurate estimate of the area.

Measuring irregularly shaped lawn sections requires a different approach

If your lawn is an irregular shape, here are a couple of ways to handle it:

1. Try the grid method for a quick estimate: Draw an outline of your lawn on paper, then overlay a grid (like graph paper) on your drawing. Count the separate squares inside your lawn outline, and for any partial squares, try to estimate how much of each is filled by your lawn. Add these together for a rough estimate of the total area.
2. Break your lawn down into simpler shapes: Another approach is to divide your irregular lawn into smaller sections that you can measure easily, like rectangles, triangles, or circles. Measure each section separately using the methods we’ve already covered (length x width for rectangles, (base x height) / 2 for triangles, and π × radius² for circles). Add them all up, and you’ve got your total lawn area!
3. Choose your method based on how irregular your lawn is: If your lawn is full of twists and turns, the grid method might be quicker. If it’s only mildly irregular (like an L-shape), breaking it into smaller, measurable sections can give you a more precise result.

Measuring irregular lawn shapes doesn’t have to be challenging

When dealing with lawns that have curves, bends, or unusual angles, breaking the lawn into simpler sections can make the measurement process much more manageable. Here are some tips to help you tackle irregularly shaped lawns:

• Use simple tools to outline and divide your lawn: To help visualise and measure your lawn, use practical items like garden hoses, stakes, or string to outline complex edges. This will help you clearly see where one section ends and another begins, making it easier to divide your lawn into manageable shapes.
• Try this for an L-shaped lawn: If your lawn is L-shaped, just divide it into two rectangles. Measure the length and width of each rectangle separately, calculate the area for both, and then add them together. This breaks down the task into simpler, more manageable parts. Easy!
• Adjust as needed for odd shapes: If your lawn has curves, bends, or unusual angles, don’t stress. Focus on dividing it into small, easy-to-measure sections. Adjust as needed and take multiple measurements if necessary to ensure your totals are as accurate as possible.

Additional lawn measurements can enhance your lawn care routine

How to measure lawn height

Keeping your lawn at the right height is key to maintaining its health and appearance. Regularly measuring the height of your grass regularly can help you make informed decisions about mowing and lawn care. Here’s how to keep your lawn height in check:

• Insert a ruler into the grass: Simply place the ruler straight into the lawn and note the height where the grass blades meet the ruler. This will help you keep track of how tall your grass is getting.
• Adjust mowing height accordingly: Use the height measurement to set your mower blades correctly, ensuring the grass is cut to the right height for optimal health. Check out our mowing lawn tips for more detailed advice on this.
• Regular checks keep your lawn looking sharp: Lawn height can fluctuate with growth, so it’s a good idea to measure regularly. This way, you can keep your mowing on point and your lawn looking its best. Don’t forget to revisit our mowing tips for seasonal advice!

How to measure lawn mower size to match your lawn areas

Choosing the right mower size can make a big difference in how efficiently you maintain your lawn. Here’s how to ensure your mower is the right fit for your lawn's size:

• Measure the width of your mower blade: Simply measure the cutting width of your lawn mower to see how much area it covers in one pass. This will help you match your mower size to your lawn area.
• Choose the right mower size: Larger mowers are great for expansive lawn areas, while smaller mowers suit compact or segmented lawns. Choosing the right size can make mowing much easier and quicker!
• Increase efficiency with the right match: Matching mower size to lawn size ensures efficient mowing, saving you time and keeping your lawn consistently healthy. It’s all about working smarter, not harder!

Avoid these unique measurement mistakes and get it right the first time

1. Underestimating slopes or uneven ground: Many lawns aren’t perfectly flat, and slopes can affect your measurements if not accounted for. When measuring on a slope, make sure your tape measure follows the contour of the ground rather than taking a straight line. This gives you a more accurate measurement of the actual surface area. For larger slopes, consider breaking the area into smaller, more level sections and measuring them individually.
2. Ignoring overlaps when measuring irregular shapes: When breaking down irregularly shaped lawns into smaller sections, it’s easy to accidentally measure some areas twice, especially if the sections overlap slightly. To avoid this, clearly mark each section as you go with stakes or string, and ensure no part of the lawn is counted more than once. Double-check your outlines and measurement areas to make sure they fit together without overlap. This will help you avoid ordering too much or too little turf.
3. Measuring too loosely or without tension: It’s easy to let the tape measure sag or not keep it tight, which can throw off your measurements. Always pull the tape measure tight and keep it straight to get the most accurate results. For longer distances, having a second person to help hold the tape measure can make this much easier and more precise.
4. Incorrectly averaging multiple measurements: When measuring irregular shapes or circles, taking multiple measurements is a good idea. However, simply adding all measurements and dividing by the number of measurements can lead to errors if some numbers are way off. Instead, take consistent measurements at equidistant points around the lawn and discard any outliers before calculating the average. This will give you a more reliable estimate.
5. Not factoring in future changes or expansions: It’s easy to measure just the current lawn area without considering future changes, such as adding new garden beds, expanding patios, or creating new pathways. To avoid redoing your measurements later, think about your long-term landscaping plans. Add buffer space where necessary, and consider potential expansions that might alter your current lawn area. Planning ahead will save you time and effort in the future!

By keeping these common pitfalls in mind, you’ll avoid unnecessary mistakes and get the job done right the first time. Proper planning and attention to detail make all the difference in achieving the perfect lawn setup.

Choosing the right tools ensures accurate measurements

1. Tape measure: A tape measure is your best friend for most residential lawns. It’s easy to use, affordable, and perfect for straight lines and basic shapes.
2. Laser distance measurer: For larger lawns or when you need a bit more precision, a laser distance measurer can provide quick and accurate results without the hassle of a long tape measure.
3. Stakes and string: These are super helpful for outlining irregular shapes or defining sections to measure separately. Use them to mark boundaries and keep everything organised as you go.

Follow this measurement checklist for easy reference

1. Measure the length and width: For rectangles and squares, multiply the length by the width.
2. Use the right formula: For triangles, use (base x height) / 2; for circles, use π × radius².
3. Divide irregular shapes into simpler forms: Count grid squares or separate them into triangles, rectangles, and circles.
4. Double-check all measurements: Always confirm your readings for the most accurate results. A little extra time spent here can save you a lot of effort later!

FAQs and additional tips will guide you through the process

How do I measure distance with a tape measure?

To measure distance accurately, lay the tape measure flat along the ground, ensuring it’s straight. Hold it taut and take note of the measurement at the endpoint. Use this method to find the length, width, and height of various lawn areas.

Any tips for measuring a large lawn quickly?

Yes! If you’ve got a large lawn, like a commercial lawn or even just a substantial private garden, then you can actually use Google Earth to take a quick measurement of your lawn. It won’t be as accurate as doing it yourself, but it will be good enough if you want to place a large order. Here’s how you do it.

1. You’ll need the latest version of Google Earth. It’s extremely easy to use — basically the same as Google Maps on your desktop.
2. Use the search bar to find your address so you can see your lawn.
3. In the top left corner, you’ll see a ruler icon. Click it.
4. To begin measuring, click on one corner of your lawn. Then, click on another corner to draw a line between the two points. Continue connecting lines around the border of your lawn till you get back to the first corner — click on it to close the border.
5. On the right side of your screen, you’ll see a ‘Measure’ box that’ll contain details like the length of the perimeter and the square footage. 

Remember, this won’t tell you exactly how much turf you need, but it’s a great starting point.

Not all lawns are the same — choosing the right measurement approach matters

Remember, not all lawns fit neatly into one shape. Some are straightforward squares, while others have curves and unique boundaries. Choose the approach that suits your lawn's specific characteristics for the most accurate measurements, and don’t hesitate to mix and match methods!

How to care for your new lawn is important

After measuring and laying your turf, it’s essential to know how to care for your new lawn. Proper watering, fertilising, and mowing are crucial in the early stages. For more detailed guidance, visit our new lawn care guide and follow our best practices to get your lawn off to a great start.

Accurate lawn area measurements make all the difference

Accurate lawn area measurements ensure you’re set up for success, whether you’re ordering turf, planning a project, or keeping your grass healthy. By following these tips for measuring different lawn shapes and heights and using the right tools, you’ll have all the information you need to maintain your lawn with confidence.

For more assistance, feel free to contact us for expert advice tailored to your specific needs. Don’t forget to use our turf calculator for precise turf orders.