Resodding a lawn is the process of replacing an existing lawn with new, pre-grown turf, offering an instant green space instead of waiting for seed to germinate. This project involves more than just the price of the grass rolls, encompassing preparation, labor, and delivery, all of which contribute to the final expense. Understanding the financial scope of a resodding project requires a detailed breakdown of material costs, installation rates, and often-overlooked variables.
Calculating Area and Material Needs
The first step in estimating the cost of a new lawn is accurately determining the total square footage of the area to be resodded. Sod is universally priced either by the square foot or by the pallet, making precise measurement necessary to avoid over-ordering a perishable product. For simple rectangular spaces, the calculation involves multiplying the length by the width to find the total square footage.
Irregularly shaped lawn areas can be measured by mentally dividing the space into smaller, distinct geometric shapes like squares, rectangles, or triangles. Measure each smaller section individually, then sum the results to determine the total area that needs coverage. A standard pallet typically covers between 400 and 500 square feet.
Accurate measurement ensures the correct quantity of turf is ordered, preventing waste or a mid-project shortage. Since sod is a living product that begins to degrade shortly after being harvested and rolled, over-ordering can lead to expensive spoilage.
Primary Cost Drivers for Sod
The material cost of the sod itself is the first major expense and varies significantly based on the grass species chosen. National average prices for sod materials fall within a range of $0.30 to $0.80 per square foot. The specific type of turf selected is dictated by climate and desired aesthetic, with each having a distinct price point.
Bermuda grass, a popular warm-season variety known for its durability and heat tolerance, costs between $0.30 and $0.85 per square foot for the material alone. Zoysia grass is often more expensive, reflecting its dense growth and low-maintenance nature, with prices ranging from $0.28 up to $1.30 per square foot for premium cultivars. Fescue, a cool-season grass that maintains color in colder months, runs from $0.32 to $0.70 per square foot.
Beyond the material, the basic labor cost for professional installation is the next primary driver. Total installed costs, which include the sod and the labor to lay it, range from $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot. The labor component alone can add $0.50 to $1.80 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the site and local market rates. Geographical location plays a major role in labor costs, with rates varying widely between states and metropolitan areas.
Hidden Costs and Project Variables
Several necessary expenses are often overlooked in initial estimates, leading to a significant increase in the final project cost. Removing the existing lawn is a preparatory step that carries a cost, either through tool rental or professional service fees. This often involves using a sod cutter to strip the old turf, followed by hauling away the debris, which can incur separate disposal charges.
Proper soil preparation and amendment are necessary for ensuring the new sod thrives and roots successfully. Costs associated with this stage include testing the existing soil composition and purchasing materials like topsoil, compost, or starter fertilizer. A professional may charge an additional $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot for extensive grading and soil enhancement work.
The logistical challenge of moving large quantities of perishable turf introduces the expense of delivery fees. Due to the weight and volume of sod pallets, these fees can range from $50 to over $400, depending on the distance from the sod farm and the total quantity ordered. Substantial water usage is also required immediately after installation to prevent the sod from drying out. New turf requires frequent and deep watering for the first few weeks to promote root establishment, increasing water bills until the lawn is established.
DIY vs. Professional Installation Cost Comparison
Homeowners who choose the Do-It-Yourself approach can achieve significant savings by eliminating the professional labor component, which is a major part of the overall installed cost. The DIY route requires paying only for the sod material and necessary preparatory supplies. This method trades professional labor costs for the expense of renting specialized equipment.
Renting tools like a sod cutter for removal and a lawn roller for ensuring good contact between the new sod and the soil base is necessary for a successful DIY project. A sod cutter rental costs between $70 and $100 per day, plus the cost of other items like wheelbarrows and rakes. This path demands a substantial investment of time and physical effort, especially for larger yards.
While professionals charge a higher rate, their full-service approach includes handling hidden costs, such as debris disposal and complex site preparation. Hiring a contractor ensures efficiency, and their experience helps guarantee proper installation, which minimizes the risk of costly sod loss. The professional fee covers the entire scope of work, tying together the material, delivery, removal, preparation, and laying of the turf into a single, comprehensive service.