A luscious green lawn can significantly enhance the look and curbside appeal of your property. Installing sod, or a new layer of already growing grass, is a popular approach to getting green grass due to its quick results. If you are thinking about laying sod on your lawn, you are probably wondering whether to do it yourself or hire professionals. The costs of sod installation shouldn’t be your only consideration. Multiple factors go into making the best decision for you.
Do It Yourself Sod Installation
Installing sod yourself can seem like a good idea at first. You can eliminate labor costs and reduce the amount you would spend initially on laying sod. Costs of a do-it-yourself project include the purchasing of sod itself, renting or purchasing necessary equipment, labor, time, and energy, and the potential for error. Let’s break down each of these costs and what it can mean for your sod installation.
Purchasing Sod
The first cost to take into consideration is the cost of materials. When purchasing sod, you will most likely have to pay between $.30 to $1.00 per square foot. However, the cost of sod can vary depending on the quality and type of sod.
Tools and Equipment
Tools and equipment are another important aspect of the job. To properly install sod, you will want to have access to a sod cutter, rake, roller, wagon, and a tiller. To rent these tools, you will have to pay approximately $50 to 100+ per day. You can also choose to purchase the necessary equipment if you don’t already have them, but this will be far more expensive.
Labor and Time
One of the biggest considerations in planning a do-it-yourself project is the labor, time, and energy you will have to invest to get the job done right. The first thing you’ll need to do is prepare your yard. You can do that by removing the existing grass, weeds, and rocks, and then tilling the soil. That will give your soil more air and nutrients, and it will support your new sod’s growth.
After preparing the soil, you will have to spend considerable time laying the sod, especially if you are working with a larger area. Do not rush this process, as incorrect sod installation can cause problems for you in the future. Be sure to water the new sod often after installing it, and keep up with ongoing maintenance for the best results.
Potential for Error
Without professional help, there can be a higher potential for error when you install the sod. If you do not prepare your soil, water the sod too much or too little, or lay the sod down incorrectly, this can result in uneven grass, air bubbles, and lumps. Additionally, you may have to redo your sod installation if major errors occur, making your project even more expensive.
Professional Help
Hiring professionals for a sod installation project can have a higher initial cost (labor costs, etc). However, professional help can have many benefits in the long run! Let’s explore some of the ways you can benefit from having a professional landscaper install your sod for you.
Expertise Speaks Volumes
Professionals have the experience, know-how, and equipment needed to complete a sod installation job successfully. They know how to prepare soil, lay sod, and how to take care of the new sod as it grows. Their experience decreases the potential for error.
Your Valuable Time
One of the greatest benefits of hiring professionals is that it allows you to save valuable time. You can spend your time on other, more important tasks while a landscaping company handles your sod installation. Additionally, you won’t have to do the manual labor that comes with the task.
Future Savings
While hiring professionals can be more expensive than a do-it-yourself project, a professionally done installation can lead to better results. Sod installed by professionals is more likely to grow and develop fully. You may also be able to reduce the amount of additional work needed in the future by hiring a professional.
Learn More About Professional Sod Installation
When considering the cost of sod installation, initial expenses should not be your only concern. While a do-it-yourself project can seem more budget-friendly, hiring professionals can save you valuable time and money in the long run. Professionals can not only oversee your sod installation but can make sure your new sod is healthy. As a result, you can enjoy peace of mind.
At Progressive Lawn and Landscaping, we want to help you achieve the lawn of your dreams. We frequently work on sod installation projects and can be a reliable partner as you revitalize your lawn. We will help you select the best sod for your backyard and handle the installation process for you. To learn more about how we can help you and to receive a free quote, contact us today.
