How many rolls of turf do I need?

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When starting a new lawn project, one of the first questions people ask is: how many turf rolls do I need? Getting the right amount is essential — too little turf leaves gaps, while too much adds unnecessary cost. The good news is that working out how much turf you need is straightforward.

Using a simple turf calculator, you can estimate the exact number of rolls required by measuring your lawn area. Whether laying turf in a small backyard, a larger block, or tricky areas with different shapes, this guide will walk you through the steps. We’ll also cover turf roll sizes in Australia, how to calculate for different shapes, and tips to ensure your order covers your lawn without waste.

Ready to work out your lawn size? Let’s start with the basics of turf rolls and why accurate measurement matters.

What is a turf roll?

A turf roll or slab is a pre-grown section of grass and soil harvested into manageable strips for easy installation. In Australia, most turf rolls are cut to around 1 m² (typically 1.7m long × 0.6m wide), or 0.5m^2 (typically 1.25m long x 0.4m wide), though sizes may vary slightly depending on the supplier.

Each roll contains healthy grass, roots, and a layer of soil, allowing it to establish quickly when laid on prepared ground. Turf rolls are designed to make lawn installation faster and more uniform than seeding.

When planning your project, you must check with your turf supplier about the exact size of their rolls, as this affects how many you’ll need. At Lilydale Instant Lawn, for example, varieties like Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu and Sir Grange Zoysia are cut into convenient slabs for residential and commercial lawns.

You may also refer to Your Home for sustainable landscaping practices.

How to measure your lawn area?

Before you can work out how many rolls of turf you need, you’ll need to calculate the total area of your lawn. Follow these steps:

1. Gather your tools – Use a tape measure, pen, and paper (or a phone app) to record dimensions.

2. Start with simple shapes – Measure the length and width of rectangular or square areas, then multiply to get the square metres (e.g., 5m × 8m = 40m²).

3. Break complex lawns into sections – Divide tricky spaces into simpler shapes such as rectangles, triangles, or circles. For circles, measure the diameter and use the formula πr² to calculate the area.

4. Add them all together – Once each section is measured, add them up to find the total area of your lawn.

5. Allow for extra turf – Always add 5–10% to your calculation. This covers cutting, shaping, and wastage during installation.

Many Australian suppliers, including Lilydale Instant Lawn, provide an online turf calculator to help you estimate turf needs based on your lawn measurements.

How many turf rolls do I need?

On average, one turf roll in Australia covers 1m². To calculate how many rolls of turf you need, measure your lawn area in square metres and match that number to the rolls. For example:

• 40m² lawn = 40 rolls of turf
• 75m² lawn = 75 rolls of turf
• 120m² lawn = 120 rolls of turf

The calculation is straightforward because turf rolls are cut to a consistent size (usually 1.7m long × 0.6m wide = 1m²).

 Always order 5–10% more rolls than the exact area you measured. This covers trimming, shaping edges, and minor miscalculations. For example, if your lawn is 75m², you should order around 82 rolls.

You can also use the turf calculator on our website for a quick calculation. It makes it easy to determine how many rolls of turf you need for different lawn shapes.

Choosing the right turf variety for your project

Not all turf varieties are the same. The best choice depends on your climate, foot traffic, and how much maintenance you’re prepared to give your lawn. Here’s a quick comparison:

Always match your turf type to your soil and lawn needs. For example, sandy soils may require varieties with better water retention, while heavy clay soils need turf that tolerates compaction.

How to measure the size of your lawn

Before you can work out how many turf rolls you need, you’ll need accurate measurements to find the area of your lawn. The method you use depends on the shape of your yard:

1. Rectangles or squares – Measure the length and width using a tape measure. Multiply them to get the total area in square metres (e.g., 5 m x 10 m = 50 m²).

2. Circles – Measure the diameter (distance across the circle). Divide it by two to get the radius, then calculate: π × radius².

3. Triangles – Measure the base and height, multiply them, then divide by two.

If your yard is unusually shaped, break it into simpler sections, calculate each one, and then add them all together for the total.

Example: A lawn with a 30 m² rectangular section and a 20 m² triangular section has a total of 50 m².

How many rolls of turf per square metre?

In Australia, turf rolls are usually 1 m² each, though dimensions can vary slightly by supplier. This makes calculating how many rolls you need simple: the number of square metres = the number of turf rolls.

• Example: If your lawn measures 50 m², you’ll need 50 turf rolls.
• Always add 5–10% extra to your order to cover cutting, edges, and waste — especially if your lawn has curves or complex shapes.

TifTuf Bermuda comes in standard turf roll sizes, so the calculation stays straightforward regardless of grass type.

Ordering the right amount ensures your new lawn is laid in one go, preventing gaps and keeping the overall appearance consistent.

Tips for ordering and delivery of turf rolls

Once you’ve calculated how many rolls of turf you need, the next step is to plan your order and delivery well. Turf is a living product that should be laid immediately after arrival to ensure it establishes quickly.

Tips for ordering and delivery:

• Book your delivery as close to installation day as possible, ideally on the morning of your DIY or professional project.
• Prepare the soil before your turf arrives by levelling, aerating, and fertilising it to prevent delays and keep the rolls fresh.
• Order about 5–10% extra turf to cover awkward corners and allow for cutting.
• Check that delivery trucks can access the site easily so the turf can be unloaded close to where it will be laid.
• Install your new lawn in spring or autumn for the best balance of temperature and water availability.

FAQs

How many square metres does one turf roll cover?

One turf roll typically covers 1 m², which makes calculating your turf needs simple. Just measure the area in metres, then match it to the number of rolls you need to order. For example, a lawn of 50 square metres requires 50 turf rolls, plus a few extras to allow for cutting and fitting around edges.

How do I calculate how much turf I need?

Start by measuring the length and width of your yard (or break it into simpler shapes like rectangles, circles, or triangles). Multiply to find the total square area, then use a turf calculator to confirm the number of rolls you need to order. This ensures full coverage and an even, healthy lawn.

What type of turf should I select for Australian lawns?

The best option depends on your lawn type and conditions. Popular choices include Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo, which thrives in shade, and TifTuf Bermuda, which handles high wear and hot summers. Both varieties grow well in Australian conditions , providing low-maintenance growth and long-term appearance, even through winter.

Create a healthy new lawn with the right turf rolls

Calculating how many turf rolls you need is simple once you measure your area correctly and allow for a little extra. Whether laying turf on a new lawn or filling bare spots, ordering the right amount saves money and ensures seamless coverage for a healthy, green lawn.

At Lilydale Instant Lawn, we supply premium turf varieties like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo and TifTuf Bermuda, which are suited to Australian conditions. With expert advice, fast delivery, and ongoing lawn care support, we make creating and maintaining the perfect lawn easy.

Use our turf calculator to determine how many rolls of turf you need, or contact our team today for personalised recommendations.