What fringe is and why it changes price
Fringe is the taller, more natural-looking turf that surrounds the putting surface. It adds playable rough for chips and keeps misses on the green complex. Adding fringe increases total square footage, extends the compacted base, and introduces extra seams and edging. That is why it affects cost.
Typical cost impact for fringe
Most installers price fringe as an installed rate per square foot. Nationally, typical ranges run from 12 to 22 dollars per square foot, depending on turf specification, base depth, access, and layout complexity. Premium specs, heavy excavation, or tight access can push higher.
Rule of thumb to estimate
- Estimate perimeter of your green in linear feet.
- Choose a fringe width, often 18 to 36 inches.
- Approximate fringe area: perimeter multiplied by width (in feet).
- Multiply the fringe area by your local installed rate to get a budget add-on.
Quick examples
- Example 1: 300 sq ft green with a 2 ft fringe around a 70 ft perimeter. Fringe area is about 140 sq ft. At 14 to 20 dollars per sq ft, the add-on is 1,960 to 2,800 dollars.
- Example 2: 500 sq ft green with a 3 ft fringe around a 100 ft perimeter. Fringe area is about 300 sq ft. At 13 to 19 dollars per sq ft, the add-on is 3,900 to 5,700 dollars.
These are planning ranges. A local site visit confirms base depth, access, and drainage, which refine the final number.
What drives fringe pricing
Width and total area
More width means more turf and base. Most installs use 18 to 36 inches of fringe. Larger widths add cost quickly on long perimeters.
Turf specification
Pile height, face weight, and fiber quality set material cost and labor time. Performance fringe that holds chips and resists matting typically prices higher than economy options.
Base work and edges
Fringe extends the compacted base and edging. Curves, borders, or pavers increase cutting and fastening time.
Layout complexity and seams
Irregular shapes, multiple seams, and tight inside radiuses add labor. Clean transitions between putting surface and fringe take skill and time.
Site conditions and access
Long carries, stairs, or limited equipment access increase labor. Extra excavation or spoil removal also affects price.
Region and disposal
Local labor rates, aggregate cost, and disposal fees vary by market and influence the final installed rate.
When fringe is worth it
- You chip and pitch at home and want realistic short-game practice.
- You want misses to stay close instead of rolling into landscape beds.
- You want a clean, finished look that frames the putting surface.
- You want to protect the green edge from traffic and mower contact.
Ways to control cost without losing performance
- Choose a smart width: 18 to 24 inches delivers function without excess area.
- Select a mid-pile, mid-weight fringe that still holds chips.
- Keep the perimeter shape simple to reduce seams and cuts.
- Use consistent edging materials to streamline install time.
- Place wider fringe only on the primary chipping sides and go narrower elsewhere.
Simple sizing steps for your budget
- Measure your green’s perimeter in feet.
- Pick a fringe width based on practice goals and yard space.
- Compute area: perimeter times width.
- Apply a local installed rate per square foot for a ballpark add-on.
- Schedule a site visit to confirm base, drainage, and access for a precise quote.
Related add-ons that can affect fringe cost
- Edging or border materials billed per linear foot.
- Extra base depth in soft soils.
- Drainage adjustments to keep the fringe dry and stable.
- Infill upgrades and brushing frequency for performance and look.
Ready for exact numbers
Share your perimeter, desired fringe width, site photos, and any access notes. A FusionTurf pro will lock in the scope and deliver a clear, reliable quote you can trust.
