Comparing Sod Pricing Across Varieties

If you’ve started shopping around for professional sod installation in the Midwest, you’ve probably noticed that there is a wide range of sod costs. Though there are many factors involved in sod installation pricing, it’s the sod itself that most heavily contributes to price differences. This guide to sod cost comparisons will help you understand the differences and select the best sod for your property needs and budget. 

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Cost Differences Among Sod Types

Many homeowners don’t realize just how many different types of sod there are. While quality and expertise may result in a higher price tag, more expensive doesn’t always mean the best for your lawn. Similarly, if a particular variety seems much less expensive, there may be a reason for that. Each variety has its advantages and disadvantages, which also differ depending on your terrain, climate, space, and other factors. The sod comparisons below give a brief cost estimate and summary of the most common sod varieties in the Midwest.

Centipede grass:

 .75 to .85 per square foot

Centipede grass is on the more expensive end of the sod cost spectrum. The high price is mostly because it is very versatile and does well in both shade and heat, as well as drought.

Bentgrass: 

.50 to .70 per square foot

Bentgass is another common choice in the Midwest. It;s cost reflects its resistance to disease and pests. However, bentgrass is fairly high maintenance as it requires frequent watering, dethatching, and aeration.

Zoysia grass: 

.40 to .60 per square foot

Zoysia grass is well-suited to cold climates and grows slower than other types of sod, so it doesn’t need to be mowed as often. Zoysia grass is fairly low maintenance but does need to be mowed often.

Bermuda grass

.35 to .85 per square foot

There are several varieties of bermuda grass and they range widely in price. Generally speaking, Bermuda grass is hardy and resistant to drought and establishes on the lawn quickly, but doesn’t do well in shade.

Fescue

.35 to .55 per square food

Though a cool-season grass, fescue is also drought tolerant and fairly heat tolerant. It is low maintenance, highly adaptable, and well-suited to Midwest climate, which is why it is so popular across the region.

Kentucky bluegrass

.35 to .40 per square foot

Another popular choice for the Midwest, Kentucky bluegrass does well in shade and cool climates but does not do well in heat and drought, especially compared to fescue in the same price range. Some types of Kentucky bluegrass can be high maintenance.

Bahia grass

.20 to .40 per square foot

Bahia grass is usually less expensive than other types of sod. It is low maintenance and hardy but is a warm-season grass and may not withstand colder temperatures as well as other varieties.

Budgeting Your Sod Installation

Your final cost for sod installation involves many other factors than just the cost of the sod itself. Sod installation may seem straight-forward, but opting for a DIY method may be more expensive and complicated than you expect. Consider these sod installation cost components: when creating your Midwest sod budget

Preparation 

Depending on the current state of your yard, you may need to do significant work to prepare for sod installation. Performing a soil test is a good idea, especially if you don’t currently have grass growing. If the soil is unhealthy or you don’t have enough soil to work with, you’ll need to purchase topsoil as well.

Cost of sod

The cost of the sod depends on the type and variety of sod as described above, but you’ll also need to consider how much sod you will need. If the area where your sod will be laid is irregularly shaped or steeply sloped, you will need to account for that in the total square footage ordered. 

Delivery fee

If your sod will be delivered by a garden center or sod farm, they will likely charge a delivery fee. If you will pick it up yourself, you’ll need to factor in gas and truck rental if needed.

Equipment rentals

Your existing yard tools may not be adequate for sod installation. Depending on your specific needs, you may require a rototiller, sod roller, edger, wheelbarrow, a sod cutter, and other equipment. A sod installation professional will bring everything they need.

Labor Cost

If you’ll be hiring someone to help you install the sod, you need to figure their labor into the total cost of sod installation. A professional landscaper will charge more than a friend or relative, but they will have more knowledge and likely be able to work more efficiently. 

Cost-Effective Options

When budgeting for sod installation, it’s important to look at the big picture. Consider the above factors and how they apply to your property and skillset. Though professional installation may seem more expensive than doing it yourself, many people find that all the small costs of DIY add up.  A professional sod installation company will be able to immediately address any potential issues, greatly improving the sod’s likelihood of establishing quickly. Sod installation generally includes all of the above factors. 

Get A Free Quote On Sod Cost In The Midwest

The best way to determine your sod budget is to consult a professional sod installation company in the Midwest. Contact us for a free sod comparison quote and begin your path to a beautiful, lush lawn.