Artificial grass pricing varies massively depending on pile height – and for most homeowners, the choice comes down to 20mm, 30mm or 40mm. Each height offers different benefits, costs, and levels of realism. This guide breaks down the true price differences, how each pile height behaves once installed, and which AGAG grass types fit each category.
🔑 Quick Takeaways
- 20–28mm grasses are the cheapest (£12.50–£17.00 per m²) but feel firmer underfoot.
- 30mm grasses offer the best balance of softness and durability (£16.99–£24.50 per m²).
- 40mm+ grasses deliver the lushest, most realistic look (£27.99 per m²).
- Longer piles do not always mean better performance – it depends on fibre shape, density, and usage.
Quick Answer: If you want the softest, most natural-looking lawn, 40mm is the premium choice. If you need durability or have kids/pets, 30mm is the sweet spot. Budget-conscious? 20–28mm works well for low-footfall areas.
Artificial Grass Prices by Pile Height
Here’s how the most popular pile heights compare, using real AGAG product pricing.
| Pile Height | Typical Use | Price Range (per m²) | AGAG Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–28mm | Budget lawns, balconies, low-footfall spaces | £12.50–£17.00 | Economy 28mm (£12.50) Eden 30mm* (£16.99) |
| 30mm | Family gardens, pets, high-footfall, realistic look | £16.99–£24.50 | Play Care 30mm (£19.50) Arcadia 30mm (£19.99) Play Care Extreme 30mm (£24.50) |
| 35–38mm | Premium realism, soft residential lawns | £18.50–£24.90 | Sol 35mm (£18.50) Elite 36mm (£24.90) |
| 40mm+ | Luxury lawns, maximum softness, most natural look | £15.99–£27.99 | Lush 40mm (£27.99) Lux 45mm (£15.99) |
*Eden sits at 30mm but is priced like a 20–28mm grass due to its lightweight fibre structure.
How Much Does Artificial Grass Cost to Install?
The installation cost doesn’t change much based on pile height – the groundwork is identical. What changes is the supply cost, which affects the total price.
| Pile Height | Installed Price (per m²) |
|---|---|
| 20–28mm | £45–£65 |
| 30mm | £55–£75 |
| 40mm+ | £60–£85 |
Most AGAG residential installs fall between £55–£75 per m² depending on access, waste removal, edging, and turf choice.
20mm Artificial Grass: Pros, Cons & Who It’s For
Short-pile artificial grass (20–28mm) is a budget-friendly option best suited for decorative areas or spaces with light use.
Best For: Balconies, small front gardens, rental properties, decorative strips.
Pros:
- Cheapest option
- Easier to clean (less fibre depth)
- Less infill needed if used for pets
Cons:
- Less soft underfoot
- Looks less natural than taller piles
- Flattens slightly faster with high traffic
AGAG options:
Economy 28mm (£12.50/m²)
30mm Artificial Grass: The Best All-Round Choice
30mm is the sweet spot – soft enough to look natural, dense enough to stay upright, and durable enough for kids and pets.
Best For: Family gardens, dogs, everyday foot traffic.
Pros:
- Most versatile height
- Great blend of softness + durability
- Realistic appearance for residential gardens
- Wide product range to suit different budgets
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than budget 28mm grass
- Quality varies depending on fibre density – not all 30mm grasses are equal
AGAG top picks:
- Play Care 30mm (£19.50) – best value
- Arcadia 30mm (£19.99) – soft, realistic
- Play Care Extreme 30mm (£24.50) – heavy-duty for pets & high use
40mm+ Artificial Grass: The Luxury Option
40mm and 45mm grasses are designed to mimic a perfectly maintained natural lawn – ideal for customers who want softness and realism above all else.
Best For: Premium gardens, show homes, landscaped spaces, light dog use.
Pros:
- Softest underfoot feel
- Most natural-looking height
- Great for barefoot comfort
Cons:
- More expensive
- Heavier pile requires occasional brushing
AGAG top picks:
Which Pile Height Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick way to decide:
| Your Priority | Best Pile Height |
|---|---|
| Budget-friendly | 20–28mm |
| Kids & family use | 30mm |
| Dog-friendly & durable | 30mm (dense fibres) |
| Softest & most natural look | 40mm+ |
No matter which height you choose, installation quality and groundwork matter far more than pile length when it comes to long-term performance.
Ready to Choose Your New Lawn?
Explore our full range of premium artificial grasses – with nationwide delivery and expert installation available.
