The costs of sod are about 8 to 30 cents for every square foot.
This estimate is only part of the true expenses, however.
Hiring someone to do it leads to higher costs among other factors.
Typical Expenses
Using the 30 cents per square foot example, computing the costs will be easy. Assume you want to sod both the front and back lawns.
If each measures 20 x 50 ft, that would be equivalent to 2,000 sq. ft. The price would be in the region of $600.
If the material is below the 10-cent range, the total cost of sod would be less than $200.
Cost of Installers
If you want to hire workers to install it, the fee will be higher. At the very least it will double. The 8 to 30 cents will now cost 15 to 30 cents.
The 20 x 50 ft front and back lawns will set you back $300 to $1,000. This may or not include labor fees.
Sometimes the contractor will use special tools to put the material in place. It may be cheaper than labor. The equipment can install material over 120 feet long and over 40 inches wide.
There are several advantages to using this approach. The problem of seams is eliminated, and the task is done more quickly.
The costs of sod are also lower. It is around 15 to 25 cents. An area covering 43,500 sq ft would cost about $6,000. The high-end service will probably be double that, around $10,000.
Note: the charges above are for rectangular surfaces. If the surface is steep and narrow, the fees will be higher. By narrow that would be less than seven feet in width.
Do it Yourself
The first thing you should do is give the sod grower a map of the area. This will give the seller an idea of how much you’ll need. If the lawn is uniquely shaped, a personal visit by the seller or more detailed maps may be needed.
The costs of sod depend on the amount you need. Usually, there are plenty of local sellers in any given area. Talk to a few to get some price quotes. Unless you’re going the DIY route, factor in the labor or equipment costs.
Besides the material, you’ll need garden tools like a rake, a sod cutter, and some fertilizer. After adding the fertilizer, slice the sod to the desired size and set them in place. If you have some real grass, align them properly.
Use a grass stomper to set the material in firmly. You can get these from most improvement stores. Don’t forget to water them regularly.
This will keep the new grass from drying. While the task is simple enough, it does take time. If the area is large, prepare to spend a few hours on it.
If you don’t want to go to the trouble of managing a real lawn, this is the best alternative. The reasonable costs of sod make them ideal for those with no time to get their yards done.