How to Measure Your Area for Turf
Accurately measuring your lawn area before ordering turf helps avoid delays, waste and unnecessary cost. The process is simpler than it sounds and only requires a tape measure, a rough sketch and a few basic calculations.
By breaking your area into manageable shapes, you can confidently work out how much turf you need.
Step 1: Create a Simple Sketch
Start by drawing a rough sketch of the area you plan to turf. It does not need to be to scale, but it should include:
- Lawn areas
- Garden beds
- Paths, driveways or edging
- Pools, sheds or other obstacles
This sketch will help you visualise the space and avoid missing sections.
Step 2: Break the Area into Simple Shapes
Most lawns are not perfect rectangles, so breaking the area into simpler shapes makes measuring easier. Common shapes include:
- Rectangles
- Squares
- Triangles
- Circles or semi-circles
If your lawn is an irregular shape, divide it into a combination of these and measure each section separately.
Step 3: Measure Each Section
Using a tape measure, record the dimensions of each shape in metres. Measuring in metres makes it easier to calculate square metres and match turf quantities.
Once measured, calculate the area of each shape, then add them together to find the total lawn area.
Step 4: Area Calculation Guide
Use the following formulas to calculate each shape:
Rectangle or square
Area = width × length
Triangle
Area = (width × height) ÷ 2
Circle
Area = 3.14 × (diameter ÷ 2)²
Semi-circle
Area = (3.14 × (diameter ÷ 2)²) ÷ 2
For complex areas, simply add the areas of each individual shape together.
Step 5: Allow for Trimming and Offcuts
It is always a good idea to allow a small margin for trimming and fitting around edges, curves and obstacles. Ordering a little extra turf helps prevent running short and avoids delays.
Understanding Turf Roll Sizes
Most turf rolls cover approximately 1 square metre. Individual roll dimensions may vary slightly depending on turf variety, but this makes calculating quantities straightforward once your total area is known.
Need Help Measuring?
If you are unsure about your measurements or would like a second check before ordering, Blue Lake Turf Farm can help confirm quantities and ensure you order the right amount of turf for your project.
Accurate measuring now helps your turf project run smoothly from delivery through to establishment.
