Key Takeaways
| Topic | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Aeration Cost Per 1,000 SF | $7 – $25 |
| Average Cost to Aerate Lawn | $75 – $250 |
| Aeration and Overseeding Cost | $160 – $425 |
| Rental Costs | $45 – $80 for 4 hours |
Lawn Aeration Cost
Lawn aeration helps promote healthy grass growth by allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. The cost of aeration can vary based on the size and type of lawn, the method used, and additional services required.
Lawn Aeration Cost Breakdown
| Unit | Average Price | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | $30 – $70 | Average lawn takes 30 minutes to 2 hours. |
| Flat Rate | $75 – $250 | Up to 10,000 square feet |
| Per 1,000 Square Feet | $7 – $25 | Most common measurement |
| Per 10,000 Square Feet | $75 – $250 | Average lawn size |
| ¼ Acre | $55 – $115 | 10,890 square feet |
| ½ Acre | $85 – $175 | 21,780 square feet |
| Per Acre | $130 – $250 | 43,560 square feet |
| 4-Hour DIY Aerator Rental | $45 – $80 | + refundable deposit |
| 1-Day DIY Aerator Rental | $70 – $110 | + refundable deposit |
| TruGreen TruComplete | $900 – $1,300 | Annual cost for aeration, overseeding, fertilization, and more. |
Average Cost to Aerate Lawn
The average cost to aerate a lawn across the United States typically ranges between $75 to $250.
| National Average Cost | $170 |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost | $30 |
| Maximum Cost | $440 |
| Average Range | $75 to $250 |
Lawn Aeration Prices Per Square Foot
| Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $40 – $75 |
| 3,000 | $45 – $100 |
| 5,000 | $50 – $150 |
| 10,000 | $75 – $250 |
| 15,000 | $100 – $300 |
Aeration Prices Per Acre
For larger properties, costs are typically calculated per acre:
| Acres | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1/4 Acre | $55 – $115 |
| 1/2 Acre | $85 – $175 |
| 1 Acre | $130 – $250 |
Flat Rate and Hourly Aeration Charges
Some professionals may charge a flat rate or hourly rate for aeration services.
| Unit | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Flat Rate | $75 – $250 per 10,000 square feet |
| Square Foot | $7 – $25 per 1,000 square feet |
| Hourly | $30 – $70 per hour |
| Per Acre | $130 – $250 per acre |
TruGreen Aeration Cost
TruGreen offers a comprehensive lawn care service that includes aeration.
Lawn Aeration Charges By Type
The method of aeration can also affect the cost. Here are some average prices by type and method:
| Type | Method | Cost for 10,000 SF |
|---|---|---|
| Core | Pro | $75 – $250 |
| Liquid | Pro | $80 – $150 |
| Liquid | DIY | $30 – $35 |
| Spike | DIY | $40 – $250 |
Core Aeration Cost
Core aeration, or plug aeration, involves removing small plugs of soil from the lawn. This method tends to be more effective and more expensive.
Liquid Aeration Cost
Liquid aeration involves applying a liquid solution that breaks down soil compaction. It’s less labor-intensive and often cheaper.
Spike Aeration Cost
Spike aeration uses a tool to poke holes in the lawn without removing soil. This method is less effective for severe compaction but is available for DIY with lower costs.
Lawn Aeration Price Factors
Several factors can influence the cost of lawn aeration, including:
Aeration and Overseeding Cost
Combining overseeding with aeration can significantly enhance lawn health but will increase costs.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aeration and Overseeding | $160 – $425 |
| Aeration and Fertilizing | $115 – $280 |
Fertilizing and Aerating Costs
Integrating fertilization with aeration can improve lawn quality and may be offered as a package by many lawn care professionals.
Combining Aeration With Other Lawn Services
Combining services like aeration, fertilization, and dethatching can often be more cost-effective.
Power Raking And Lawn Dethatching Costs
Power raking or dethatching removes excess thatch that can prevent your lawn from thriving.
| Service | Cost for 10,000 SF lawn |
|---|---|
| Dethatching Lawn | $100 – $300 |
| Power Raking Yard | $200 – $700 |
What’s The Difference Between Aerating And Dethatching A Lawn?
Aerating and dethatching serve different purposes. Aeration addresses soil compaction, while dethatching removes the layer of organic debris that may prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots.
Benefits Of Aerating Lawn
Aerating offers numerous advantages and a few disadvantages:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
- Encourages healthy grass growth.
- Improves root development.
- Improves water absorption and reduces runoff.
- Fills in bare patches to create a thick, green lawn.
- Makes turf more drought-tolerant and heat-resistant.
- Helps with weed control.
- Makes the lawn more resistant to insects and disease.
| - Core aeration leaves unsightly plugs on the lawn.
- Aeration machines may hit sprinkler heads or buried irrigation lines.
- Makes the lawn more vulnerable to weeds if performed at the wrong time of year.
- Increases dryness if the lawn isn’t watered enough afterward.
|
Disadvantages Of Aerating
Despite its benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider such as potential damage to irrigation systems and the aesthetic of plugs left on the lawn.
DIY Lawn Aeration Service Cost
DIY aeration can be a cost-effective solution, though it requires the right equipment and some physical effort.
Lawn Aerator Rental Cost
Renting aeration equipment can be a cost-effective option for homeowners:
| Rental Time | Self-Propelled Plug Aerator | Tow-Behind Plug or Spike Aerator |
|---|---|---|
| 4 Hours | $45 – $80 | $30 – $50 |
| Daily | $70 – $110 | $35 – $70 |
| Weekly | $280 – $400 | $130 – $200 |
| Monthly | $700 – $1,100 | $325 – $650 |
Cost To Buy A Lawn Aerator
Here are the average costs for purchasing different types of aerators:
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Plug Aerator (Tow-Behind) | $150 – $400 |
| Spike Aerator (Tow-Behind) | $100 – $250 |
| Spike Aerator (Manual Push) | $40 – $130 |
| Handheld Aerator Tools | $20 – $50 |
| Liquid Aerator Solution | $30 – $35 |
How Much Does A Lawn Aerator Weigh?
The weight of lawn aerators can vary significantly based on the type:
| Type | Weight |
|---|---|
| Plug Aerator (Self-Propelled) | 250 – 370 pounds |
| Plug Aerator (Tow-Behind) | 70 – 250 pounds |
| Spike Aerator (Tow-Behind) | 25 – 45 pounds |
| Spike Aerator (Manual Push) | 25 – 30 pounds |
| Handheld Aerating Tools | 4 – 6 pounds |
What Is Lawn Aeration Service?
Aeration involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate grass roots. This helps the roots grow deeply and produces a stronger, more vigorous lawn.
How Long Does It Take To Aerate A Lawn?
Aerating a lawn typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size of the lawn and the type of equipment used.
When Is The Best Time To Aerate A Lawn?
| Early Spring or Early Fall | Late Spring or Early Summer |
|---|---|
- Northern U.S.
- Cool-season grasses
- Bentgrass
- Bluegrass
- Ryegrass
- Red fescue
- Tall fescue
| - Southern U.S.
- Warm-season grasses
- Bahia grass
- Bermuda grass
- Buffalo grass
- St. Augustine grass
- Zoysia grass
|
How Often Should I Aerate My Lawn?
Most lawns benefit from aeration once per year, though heavily-trafficked lawns may require more frequent aeration.
How Do I Know If My Lawn Needs Aerating?
Signs that your lawn may need aerating include thinning grass, soil compaction, and areas of poor drainage.
Can I Mow My Lawn After Aeration Services?
It’s typically recommended to wait a few days after aeration before mowing to allow the lawn to properly utilize the aeration benefits.
Is It Better To Fertilize Before Or After Aeration?
Fertilizing after aeration is generally more effective as the nutrients can penetrate the soil more efficiently.
Hiring A Lawn Aeration Service
When hiring a professional lawn aeration service, it’s essential to understand the costs involved and the services provided.
Getting Aeration Quotes
Always get multiple quotes to ensure you are receiving a fair price. Be specific about the size of your lawn and any additional services you may need.
Questions To Ask Lawn Care Professionals
- What type of aeration method do you use?
- How long will the process take?
- Should I prepare my lawn beforehand?
- Are there any additional costs for overseeding or fertilizing?
- Do you offer a guarantee for your services?
Lawn aeration can be a crucial part of maintaining a healthy lawn. By understanding the costs and options available, homeowners can make informed decisions to keep their grass lush and vibrant.
