How much does sod installation cost?
Expert reviewed by Bret Douglas, a Thumbtack Pro Advisor Board Member and owner of Iron Clad Landscape Management in Orange City, Florida.
The national average cost to lay 2,500 square feet of sod is $1,867, including labor and materials, according to data provided to Thumbtack by Xactware. This comes out to approximately $0.75 per square foot.
On the low end, the national average cost of sod installation is $1,568; on the high end, it’s $2,409.
National average sod installation cost:
|
Average cost |
$1,867 |
|
Average low-end cost |
$1,568 |
|
Average high-end cost |
$2,409 |
The figures above represent the national average costs of laying 2,500 sq. ft. of sod, including labor and materials. Source: Xactware.
Ultimately, the overall cost of sod installation depends on factors like your location, the type of sod you choose, labor and material costs, the size of your lawn, and more. In this guide, you’ll learn more about these factors so that you can estimate how much it will cost to lay sod in your yard. You can also get a more accurate, personalized cost estimate for your project by reaching out to sod installation professionals near you on Thumbtack.
What's in this cost guide?
To calculate and estimate how much it will cost to install sod in your yard, you need to know all of the price factors. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions and budget accordingly.
Here are the key considerations:
1. Equipment accessibility.
"Equipment accessibility will significantly determine the cost," says Johnathan Mitchell, the owner of Mitchell Lawncare Services in Inman, South Carolina.
Professionals often use skid steers for sod installation projects. Photo credit: Mitchell Lawncare Services.
"For example, if you're trying to sod an area that only very specific equipment can reach (or no equipment, like skid steers, mini skids, or tillers, can reach), expect to pay three to five times the cost," he adds.
2. Soil condition.
"Experienced pros will consider the current soil condition and calculate how much new soil will be needed," says Johnathan.
You may want to have your soil tested to see whether it needs any preparation before laying the sod. For example a professional may need to treat the soil by adjusting its pH levels and adding or removing chemicals and nutrients to create the ideal host for your new sod to thrive. This step can add to your total cost, but it's necessary.
3. Site preparation.
Is your lawn ready for sod installation? Or do you need to get rid of old tree stumps, remove an old patio or deck, or move some of your landscaping features?
Remember to factor in the cost of all of your landscaping needs and prep work.
4. Type of sod.
The price of sod varies by type, which can significantly impact the total installation cost.
Left: Bermuda grass. Right: Fescue grass.
Certain types of sod may be more expensive than others, depending on where you live. For example, Johnathan explains how these sod types have varying affordability levels in different U.S. regions:
- Most affordable type of sod in southeastern regions: Bermuda and St. Augustine
- Most affordable type of sod in northern regions: Fescue
- Most expensive type of sod in southeastern regions: Fescue and Zoysia
- Most expensive type of sod in northern regions: Zenith Zoysia and Kentucky Bluegrass
It's important to research and select the sod that best suits your needs and budget.
5. Total square footage of the area.
Sod installation costs also depend on the square footage of the area where you plan to lay the sod. The larger the area, the more sod you'll need — and the more labor-intensive the job becomes. As with any home project, additional labor can increase the cost.
6. Time of year.
Sod installation costs can be higher (or lower) at different times of the year due to the weather. "Extreme hot or cold weather adds 10% to 20%" to the cost, says Johnathan.
If possible, try to schedule your project when temperatures are more mild.
7. Sod delivery fees.
If you choose to DIY this project and order the sod to arrive at your home, expect to pay a delivery fee. Delivery fee amounts vary depending on where you live.
Chat with your pro to find out whether delivery fees are included in your quote.
8. Cost of watering, fertilizer, and topsoil.
After a pro lays down your sod, you will need to water, fertilize, and possibly add topsoil to your new lawn.
"Sod will die if it's not watered three times a day for 30 minutes for the first 10 days," says Johnathan. "Make sure the grass is soaked. You will need an irrigation system, which costs $3,000-$7,000. Or, you can manually water it yourself to save money."
|
National average cost |
$0.75/sq. ft. |
|
Average low-end cost |
$0.63/sq. ft. |
|
Average high-end cost |
$0.96/sq. ft. |
The figures above represent the national average costs of laying 2,500 sq. ft. of sod, including labor and materials. Source: Xactware.
The national cost of sod per square foot ranges anywhere from $0.63-$0.96, on average. So, the bigger your lawn, the more you can expect to pay.
While this is the national average cost per square foot, some pros may charge more and have a minimum fee. "A ballpark I tell customers is $2-$3 per square foot," says Johnathan.
|
Lawn Size |
National average cost |
|
1,000 square feet or less |
$1,555 |
|
1,000-5,000 sq. ft. |
$3,098 |
|
5,000-10,000 sq. ft. |
$4,188 |
|
10,000-15,000 sq. ft. |
$5,381 |
Source: Thumbtack
How much does it cost to sod 200 square feet?
Although national data found that the average sod cost per square foot is $0.63-$0.96, you’ll likely pay more for smaller projects.
According to Johnathan, laying down 200 square feet of sod costs a minimum of $1,200 if you work with Mitchell Lawncare Services. "Pro can't spend their time on jobs that are less than this since you can only do maybe two jobs like this a day," he explains.
How much does it cost to sod 500 square feet?
You can expect to pay $1,200-$2,000 to lay down 500 square feet of sod, says Johnathan. Of course, this price will vary depending on the company, sod type, equipment access, and more.
How much does it cost to sod 1,000 square feet?
The cost to lay down 1,000 square feet of sod is $2,000-$2,500, depending on the price factors mentioned earlier, says Johnathan. Thumbtack data also shows that the national average cost to install 1,000 square feet or less is $1,555.
|
Material |
Labor |
|
|
National average cost |
$1,293 |
$574 |
|
Average low-end cost |
$1,086 |
$482 |
|
Average high-end cost |
$1,668 |
$741 |
The figures above represent the national average costs of laying 2,500 sq. ft. of sod, including labor and materials. Source: Xactware.
As with most landscaping projects, you must factor material and labor costs into the final price tag. The national average cost for the materials required for sod installation is $1,293. The national average labor cost of sod installation is $574.
Materials and labor have a massive impact on the cost of installing sod. In addition to the sod, you may also need to consider the cost of topsoil and fertilizer, which may add to the total price.
Ask your pro for a detailed quote that breaks down the specific material and labor costs.
When it comes to sod installation, you might be wondering whether to tackle the project yourself or hire a professional. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore them.
Benefits of DIY sod installation:
- Cost. DIY sod installation can be a cost-effective option if you have the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Control. You’ll have control over every step of the process, from choosing the type of sod to preparing the soil and laying the grass.
- Satisfaction. For some homeowners, there's nothing like the satisfaction of completing a lawn care project on your own.
Drawbacks of DIY sod installation:
- Labor. DIY sod installation requires physical labor, time, and effort. "Sod is very heavy, and there is a lot of grading to do," says Johnathan. "You have to set aside two to five days to complete this project. Once the sod is cut, it must be installed within 48 hours at the most. Or it will perish, and you waste a couple grand."
- Difficulty. If you're not experienced in landscaping or don't have the necessary tools, installing sod can be highly challenging.
- Future issues. Improper installation techniques may lead to issues such as uneven growth, weed invasion, or the need for reinstallation.
While it may be more expensive upfront, hiring a sod installation pro can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes. Professional installers are also equipped to handle any challenges that may arise during the installation process, ensuring a successful outcome.
Professionals have the expertise and equipment to ensure proper installation, resulting in a healthier and more attractive lawn. They can also give tips on choosing the right type of sod for your specific needs and climate conditions.
The bottom line: When comparing the cost of DIY and professional sod installation, consider both short-term and long-term expenses. DIY installation may seem cheaper initially. However, the total expense can add up when factoring in the cost of materials, tools, and potential reinstallation.
Professional installation also often includes warranties and guarantees, providing peace of mind and potential cost savings.
While sod installation costs can add up, there are ways to minimize expenses without compromising on quality. For example:
- "Be open to different grass types," says Johnathan. Your pro might have a type that better fits within your budget. Johnathan also says that if your pro highly recommends not using a specific type of sod, don't use it. The sod type you want might be wrong for the area and die within a month — which is a waste of money.
- Carefully plan and measure the area to ensure you order the right amount of sod, avoiding unnecessary waste.
- Compare quotes from multiple sod installation professionals to find the best price. This will help ensure you're not overpaying for this project.
- Ask about deals and discounts. Let the pro know your budget, and ask if they can offer a discount for a first-time customer. Or, find out if they can lower the price if you hire them for recurring lawn care service.
If the cost of laying sod is outside of your budget, you can explore another affordable alternative: Seeding.
When you seed your lawn, you spread grass seed directly onto the soil. Although DIY seeding is cheaper than having a professional install sod, it does have a few drawbacks.
"You can do seeding but expect the whole process to take four months of active care, two to three times a week," says Johnathan.
There are many ways to save on sod installation. But don't cut corners in the short term if you want a beautiful lawn that lasts for a long time.
Download the Thumbtack app and contact a pro nearby to get free estimates for your sodding project.
FAQs
How much square footage does one pallet of sod typically cover?
One pallet of sod usually covers 500 square feet, says Johnathan. If you're installing the sod yourself, make sure you measure your yard to estimate how many pallets you'll need to create your lawn.
How many pallets of sod do I need?
You'll need 4 to 10 pallets (to cover 2,000 to 5,000 square feet). This is typical for a house located in the southeastern region of the U.S., says Johnathan. However, you'll need to measure your lawn to calculate how many pallets of sod you'll really need.
"Buy a measuring wheel and a grab piece of paper," says Johnathan. "Get the length and width of each zone of your yard. After getting the total square footage, add 10% to accommodate for mistakes or bad sod that you can't use."
How long does it take to install sod in a yard?
Sod installation can take a total of 2 to 5 days to complete. "The average time it takes for a pro is 1 to 2 days of just prep work and 1 to 2 days of just laying sod," says Johnathan.
Can you lay sod over existing grass?
You should not lay sod over existing grass. "You're going to end up losing money," says Johnathan.
Sod needs soil to survive and thrive. Planting sod over existing grass will most likely kill the sod and the grass beneath it.
The best method is to kill the existing grass so that it's easier to remove. Then, prepare the soil and lay the sod.
How long does sod last?
Sod can last up to 1 week on a pallet if you order it in the winter. But in the summer, it will last only 24 hours. However, it depends on various factors such as the type of sod, the weather, and the storage conditions.
When should you lay sod?
Early to mid-fall after the warm season is considered to be the best time to lay sod. The temperatures are mild enough that the new lawn won't die because it's too cold or hot. Planting it in the fall will give it time to become a little more established before the temperatures become more extreme.
Of course, this varies depending on your location and climate. Contact professional sod installers who can give you the best advice.
How long does it take sod to root?
It takes approximately 10 days for sod to root, says Johnathan. It should be fully established in 6 months.
If you don't see roots after that period, you may need to ask for advice on encouraging root growth. Do this before the sod dies, and you have to start over.
Sydney Champion contributed to this article.
*A note about project costs featured in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros, additional research, and Xactware's pricing data. For more information on Xactware’s pricing, visit its pricing methodology page. These figures are provided for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs.
