| Scenario | Area | Depth | Material | Waste | Bag size | Estimated bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small patio turf | 300 ft² | 0.5 in | Silica sand | 8% | 50 lb | ~30 |
| Play zone | 40 m² | 12 mm | Organic blend | 10% | 25 kg | ~29 |
| Putting green | 600 ft² | 0.4 in | Coated sand | 6% | 50 lb | ~49 |
| Pet run | 25 m² | 10 mm | Crumb rubber | 8% | 25 kg | ~8 |
- Area is computed from shape (rectangle, circle, or custom).
- Raw volume = Area × Depth (unit conversions applied).
- Adjusted volume = Raw volume × (1 + Waste%) × Compaction factor.
- Weight = Adjusted volume × Material density.
- Bags = Weight ÷ Bag size, then rounded as selected.
- Select the shape and enter dimensions or total area.
- Choose units for length and depth to match your measurements.
- Pick an infill material or enter a custom density.
- Set waste and compaction for real-world losses.
- Enter your bag size, calculate, then download CSV or PDF.
- Higher pile turf usually needs more infill depth.
- Brushing after installation often increases settling.
- Follow manufacturer guidance for pet areas and drainage.
- Use supplier density and bag weight for best accuracy.
Depth targets by typical turf use
Infill depth is usually measured after brushing and settling. For landscaping turf, 0.4–0.6 in (10–15 mm) is common; for pet areas, 0.5–0.8 in (13–20 mm) helps stability; and for putting greens, 0.3–0.5 in (8–13 mm) supports ball roll. Always confirm the manufacturer’s minimum and maximum depth for your pile height.
Density differences that change bag counts
Material density converts adjusted volume into purchase weight. Silica sand and coated sands are typically heavy, while crumb rubber and organic blends are lighter. If your supplier provides a spec sheet, enter a custom density to match their product. Small density changes can shift bag totals significantly on large areas. Common bag weights are 50 lb (22.7 kg) and 25 kg. When comparing quotes, confirm whether the label shows net weight and moisture. Use the rounding-up option to cover partial bags and future touch-ups. Large installations often require pallets; note bags per pallet.
Waste and compaction as real-world multipliers
Waste factor accounts for spillage, low spots, and top-ups after rain or brushing. A practical range is 5–12%, with higher values for irregular edges and hand spreading. Compaction factor reflects settling during installation; 1.02–1.10 is typical. The calculator multiplies raw volume by both allowances to reduce under-ordering.
Measuring area accurately in the field
Rectangles use length × width, circles use π × (diameter ÷ 2)², and irregular spaces are best handled by summing smaller shapes or using a measured total area. Verify your unit selections before calculating. Conversions are automatic, so you can measure in meters and still export results in both metric and imperial formats.
Planning for drainage, comfort, and maintenance
Infill influences drainage rate, surface firmness, and heat. Heavier sands often improve ballast and stability; lighter options can reduce weight and feel softer. Consider local rainfall, slope, and expected traffic. After installation, re-brush and check depth, then schedule top-ups as fibers relax over the first weeks.
1) What depth should I enter if my turf is newly installed?
Use the manufacturer’s target infill depth for your pile height, then add a small compaction factor. If you plan to top up after the first brushing cycle, keep waste near 8–10%.
2) Why does the calculator ask for compaction?
Infill settles as you brush and the turf is used. Compaction factor increases the ordered volume to match real installation behavior, helping prevent shortages after settling.
3) When should I use custom density?
Use custom density when your supplier provides a specific bulk density or when your infill is a specialty blend. It improves weight and bag estimates, especially for large areas.
4) Should I round bags up or to the nearest whole?
Round up for purchasing because partial bags cannot be bought and small losses are common. Nearest-whole rounding is better for budgeting scenarios when you already have spare bags on hand.
5) Can I calculate an irregular-shaped yard accurately?
Yes. Break the yard into rectangles and circles, sum the areas, then enter the total as Custom Area. Alternatively, use a measured site plan area in the same unit system.
6) How often should turf infill be topped up?
High-traffic zones may need a top-up once or twice per year, while decorative lawns may need less. Inspect fiber exposure and firmness after heavy use, brushing, or seasonal weather changes.