A new lawn can completely transform your garden, but choosing the right turf and laying it properly makes all the difference. Many homeowners focus on the appearance of turf without thinking about practical questions like how much turf they need, how long turf can stay rolled up, or whether turf can be laid directly onto soil or sand.

In this guide, we’ll answer the most common turf-buying questions and explain the 5 most important things you should know before ordering turf for your garden.

Whether you’re laying a brand-new lawn or replacing an old one, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and get the best results from your turf.

At Berkshire Turf, we supply premium lawn turf and topsoil to homeowners, landscapers, and garden designers across Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and London. 

1. Know How Much Turf You Actually Need

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is:

“How much turf will I need?”

The easiest way to calculate this is by measuring the length and width of your garden area in metres and multiplying them together to get the total square metres.

For example:

• 5m x 4m = 20m² of turf needed
• 10m x 6m = 60m² of turf needed

If your garden has awkward shapes, curves, or borders, it’s always smart to allow an extra 5–10% for cuts and waste.

Not sure how much turf you need? Use our Turf Calculator to quickly work out the correct amount for your garden.

It’s always better to slightly overestimate than run short during installation.

2. Understand Turf Roll Sizes Before Ordering

Before placing an order, it helps to understand the typical dimensions of turf rolls and how much coverage each roll provides.

How Long Is a Roll of Turf?

Most standard turf rolls in the UK are approximately 1 square metre in size, although dimensions can vary slightly between suppliers.

Typical turf roll measurements are around:

• 1.6m long
• 0.6m wide

We offer turf in size 1.64 mx0.61 m, We also do ‘Big Roll’ turf for larger projects. Big rolls of turf measure 22 square metres and require additional equipment for installation. 

How Wide Are Turf Rolls?

Standard turf rolls are circa 60cm wide.

Knowing the width of turf rolls is useful when:

• planning delivery access
• estimating installation time
• working around curved borders and pathways

How Big Is a Roll of Turf?

A standard roll usually covers approximately 1m², making it easier to calculate quantities for most domestic gardens.

Larger projects may use bulk turf rolls, while smaller gardens often benefit from lighter, easier-to-carry rolls.

How Thick Is Turf?

Turf thickness can vary depending on:

• grass variety
• soil base
• growing conditions
• harvesting method

Generally, turf is cut with enough soil attached to protect the root system and help the lawn establish quickly after laying. Premium-quality turf often feels denser and establishes faster when properly watered and maintained. The thickness of turf at Berkshire Turf is approximately 20mm. 

3. Don’t Leave Turf Rolled Up Too Long

Fresh turf is a living product, which means timing matters.

Two of the most common questions buyers ask are:

• “How long will turf last rolled up?”
• “How long can you keep turf rolled up?”

Turf should be laid on the same day it arrives.

When turf stays rolled up for too long:

• heat builds up inside the rolls
• moisture levels increase
• roots weaken
• yellowing and discolouration can occur

Laying turf promptly and watering it thoroughly during establishment is crucial in achieving a perfect lawn.

This is especially important during warmer weather conditions commonly experienced in London and the South East during spring and summer months. 

Signs Turf Has Been Left Too Long

Watch for:

• yellow patches
• dry edges
• unpleasant odour
• overheating inside the roll
• weak or slimy roots

If delays happen, unroll the turf into shaded areas and lightly water it until installation is possible.

4. Prepare the Ground Properly Before Laying Turf

Even the highest-quality turf will struggle if the ground underneath hasn’t been prepared correctly.

Ground preparation is one of the most important parts of creating a healthy lawn. Proper soil preparation helps turf establish faster and improves long-term lawn quality.

How to Lay Turf on Dirt

If you’re laying turf directly onto soil or dirt, follow these steps:

1. Remove weeds, stones, and debris
2. Loosen compacted soil
3. Level the area carefully
4. Add quality topsoil if needed
5. Firm the ground lightly
6. Water the soil before laying turf

At Berkshire Turf, we recommend preparing the soil thoroughly and using boards while laying turf to avoid footprints and uneven surfaces. We supply screened topsoil and fresh turf for lawn preparation projects across Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and Greater London. 

How to Lay Turf on Sand

Many people ask whether turf can be laid directly onto sharp sand.

The short answer is: sometimes,  but it depends on the situation.

Sharpsand usually drains too quickly and struggles to retain nutrients. In most cases, a better approach is to:

• mix sand with quality topsoil
• improve the nutrient content
• create a more stable growing base

For lawns with drainage issues, a sand-and-soil blend can work very well when properly prepared. 

We offer high-quality topsoil suitable for garden landscaping, lawn renovation, and new turf installation throughout Berkshire, Surrey, Oxford, and London. 

5. Turf Aftercare Matters More Than Most People Think

The first few weeks after laying turf are critical.

Even premium turf can fail if it isn’t watered or maintained correctly during establishment. Newly laid turf should be watered thoroughly for the first week to help roots establish properly.

Key Turf Aftercare Tips

Water Regularly

Fresh turf should never dry out during the first few weeks.

In warm weather:

• water daily
• focus on even coverage
• check edges and corners carefully

Avoid Heavy Foot Traffic

Children, pets, and garden furniture should stay off newly laid turf until roots establish properly.

Don’t Cut It Too Short

The first few mows should be done on a higher mower setting to avoid stressing the grass.

Watch for Gaps or Shrinkage

Poor watering is one of the main reasons newly laid turf shrinks or develops visible gaps.

Want to keep your lawn healthy year-round? Read our complete Turf Lawn Aftercare Guide for watering schedules, mowing advice, seasonal lawn care, and long-term maintenance tips.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turf

How much turf do I need?

Measure the length and width of your garden in metres and multiply them together to calculate square metres. Use our Turf Calculator for a quick estimate.

How long can turf stay rolled up?

Ideally, less than 24 hours. Turf should be laid as quickly as possible after delivery.

What size are turf rolls?

Most standard turf rolls cover approximately 1m², although exact dimensions vary between suppliers.

Can you lay turf directly on sand?

Yes, but sand alone is rarely ideal. Mixing sand with quality topsoil generally gives better results.

How thick is turf?

Our turf is around 20 mm thick, though thickness varies by supplier and grass variety; consistency across rolls is important for achieving a level lawn.

We are here to help

Buying turf is about much more than choosing the greenest roll available. Understanding turf sizes, installation methods, preparation, and aftercare will help you create a lawn that establishes quickly and stays healthy for years.

By preparing the ground properly, laying turf promptly, and following a good aftercare routine, you’ll give your new lawn the best possible start.

Berkshire Turf supplies high-quality turf and topsoil across Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and London, helping homeowners, landscapers, and commercial clients create beautiful lawns and outdoor spaces all year round.