Key Takeaways
| Section | Main Points |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Square Foot | Replacing a lawn costs $1 – $4 per square foot. |
| Average Cost | Averages between $7,500 – $22,500 for a typical lawn size (5,000 – 10,000 SF). |
| Cost Per Acre | Costs range from $43,000 – $130,000 per acre. |
| Methods | Options include reseeding, resodding, and artificial turf with various pros and cons. |
| Lawn Repair | Repair costs are based on the type of repair and the size of the area. |
$1 – $4 Cost Per Square Foot To Redo A Lawn
Installing a new lawn can be a significant expense, with costs varying based on the size of the lawn and the method chosen for replacement. On average, redoing a lawn can range from $1 to $4 per square foot.
$7,500 – $22,500 Average Cost For New Lawn (5K-10K SF)
For a standard lawn size of 5,000 to 10,000 square feet, homeowners can expect to spend between $7,500 and $22,500 on average. These costs can fluctuate based on factors such as the type of grass, location, and labor fees.
$43,000 – $130,000 Cost Per Acre To Replace
Larger areas, such as one acre, will naturally incur higher costs. The total expense to replace one acre of lawn falls within the range of $43,000 to $130,000. Multiple factors contribute to this wide range, including soil condition and the complexity of the install.
Lawn Replacement Cost By Size
Replacing a lawn can vary greatly depending on the size of the area. Here is a detailed breakdown:
| Lawn Size | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 500 square feet | $500 – $1,500 |
| 1,000 square feet | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| 3,000 square feet | $3,000 – $9,000 |
| 5,000 square feet | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| 7,500 square feet | $7,500 – $22,500 |
| 10,000 square feet | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| 1/2 acre | $22,000 – $65,000 |
| 3/4 acre | $32,000 – $98,000 |
| 1 acre | $43,000 – $130,000 |
| 3 acres | $130,000 – $390,000 |
| 5 acres | $217,000 – $650,000 |
Average Cost To Replace A Lawn
The overall cost to replace a lawn can vary widely. Here’s a snapshot of average expenses:
| National Average Cost | $15,000 |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost | $5,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $40,000 |
| Average Range | $7,500 to $22,500 |
New Lawn Installation Cost By Method
The method chosen for lawn replacement plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost. Here are three common methods:
Resodding
Cost: $1.50 – $4.00/sqft
Pros: Instant results, looks uniform right away.
Cons: Labor intensive, limited variety of grass options.
Reseeding or Hydroseeding
Cost: $1.00 – $3.00/sqft
Pros: Wide variety of grass types, efficient and uniform appearance.
Cons: Requires a lot of water, visible growth may take up to 8 weeks.
Artificial Turf
Cost: $6.00 – $20.00/sqft
Pros: Long-lasting (15 – 25 years), reduces maintenance, no mowing or fertilizing.
Cons: Higher upfront costs, may get hotter in direct sunlight.
New Lawn Installation Cost By Method
Here is a comparative cost analysis by method of installation:
| Method | Cost Per Square Foot | Pros and Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Reseeding or Hydroseeding | $1.00 – $3.00 | Pros: Largest selection of grass varieties, efficient and uniform look. Cons: Needs proper climate/weather, requires a lot of water, up to 8 weeks for visible growth. |
| Resodding | $1.50 – $4.00 | Pros: Instant results. Cons: Labor intensive, less grass-variety options. |
| Artificial Turf | $6.00 – $20.00 | Pros: Lasts 15 – 25 years, no mowing or fertilizing, saves water, no pesticides or herbicides. Cons: Higher surface heat in summer, requires cleaning to prevent odors. |
Reseed Lawn Cost
Reseeding a lawn involves planting new grass seed over an existing lawn. It is an economical method that ranges between $1 and $3 per square foot. This method can take up to 8 weeks for noticeable results but offers a broad selection of grass types suitable for various climates.
Resodding A Yard Price
Resodding, or installing sod, provides immediate results and a lush lawn. This method costs between $1.50 and $4 per square foot. Although more labor-intensive, it guarantees a uniform appearance almost instantly.
Artificial Grass Cost
Artificial grass serves as a low-maintenance, long-lasting alternative to natural grass. Costs range from $6 to $20 per square foot. Advantages include no need for mowing, fertilizing, or extensive watering. However, it can heat up more under direct sunlight and requires occasional cleaning to prevent odors.
Cost Factors To Put Grass In Backyard
Several variables affect the cost of installing a new lawn in your backyard. The primary factors include:
- Method of Installation: From reseeding to resodding or installing artificial turf.
- Grass Type: Different types of grass come with varying costs.
- Labor Costs: Hiring professionals can increase costs.
- Soil Quality: Poor soil may require treatments, increasing the total expense.
- Prep Work: Removing old grass or weeds adds to the cost.
Lawn Repair And Restoration Costs
Repairing and restoring a lawn can be more cost-effective than complete replacement. Here’s a look at typical lawn repair costs:
| Repair Type | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 25 SF Patch | $20 – $100 |
| 50 SF Patch | $40 – $200 |
| 100 SF Patch | $80 – $400 |
| 250 SF Patch | $200 – $1,000 |
| Fix Ruts In Yard | $60 – $100 per hour |
| Lawn Aeration | $75 – $250 |
| Lawn Fertilization | $65 – $100 |
Cost To Fix Ruts In Yard
Fixing ruts typically costs between $60 and $100 per hour. This process involves filling and leveling the uneven areas of the lawn to restore a smooth appearance.
Cost To Patch Grass
Patching minor areas of damaged grass costs from $20 to $400, depending on the size of the patch and the method used for repair. Here’s a table summarizing patching costs:
| Grass Replacement Method | Per Square Foot | Per Patch (25 SF) |
|---|---|---|
| Seeding | $0.75 – $2.70 | $20 – $65 |
| Sodding | $1.50 – $4.00 | $35 – $100 |
When To Replace A Lawn
Knowing when to replace a lawn can save time and money. Replace your lawn if:
- Significant Bare Patches: Extensive areas with no grass.
- Weed Invasion: Inability to control weeds.
- Drought Damage: Grass does not recover from drought.
- Thatch Build-up: Thick thatch layer that prevents water penetration.
How Often To Water, Fertilize, And Mow A New Lawn
- Watering: New lawns need daily watering for the first two weeks. Gradually taper off to twice a week.
- Fertilizing: Apply fertilizer after new grass reaches 2 to 3 inches in height.
- Mowing: Start mowing when the grass is 3 to 4 inches tall. Do not cut more than 1/3 height at a time.
Getting Landscaper Estimates To Redo A Lawn
Hiring a professional landscaper can ensure a quality job and save time. Here are some tips for getting estimates:
Questions To Ask
When seeking estimates, consider asking these questions:
- Experience: How long have you been in the landscaping business?
- References: Can you provide references from previous clients?
- Insurance: Do you have liability insurance?
- Cost Breakdown: Can you provide a detailed cost breakdown?
- Timeline: What’s the estimated duration to complete the project?
- Maintenance Tips: What maintenance is required post-completion?
By preparing these questions, you will be better equipped to select the right professional for your lawn replacement project.
