Lawn Aeration Cost Calculator

Here’s a table showing the average cost of lawn aeration services based on different factors. The prices can vary depending on the size of the lawn, the type of aeration method used, and regional differences.

Factors	Cost Range (USD)
Lawn Size
Small Lawn (up to 1,000 sq. ft.)	$50 – $100
Medium Lawn (1,000 – 5,000 sq. ft.)	$100 – $200
Large Lawn (5,000 – 10,000 sq. ft.)	$200 – $300
Extra Large Lawn (over 10,000 sq. ft.)	$300 – $500+
Aeration Method
Spike Aeration	$50 – $150
Plug/Core Aeration	$100 – $250
Liquid Aeration	$50 – $200
Additional Factors
Soil Condition (compacted soil may cost more)	+$20 – $50
Frequency of Service (discounts for regular service)	-10% – 20%
Regional Variations	+10% – 30%
Professional Service vs. DIY	Professional: +$50 – $100, DIY: Rental equipment costs $50 – $100 per day

This table provides a general idea of the costs associated with lawn aeration. The actual cost can vary based on specific circumstances and service providers.

FAQs

How much to aerate a lawn in the UK?
The cost to aerate a lawn in the UK typically ranges from £40 to £90 for an average-sized lawn, depending on the size and condition of the lawn as well as the service provider.

Why is aeration so expensive?
Aeration can be expensive due to the cost of specialized equipment, labor, and expertise required to perform the task effectively. Additionally, it can be time-consuming, especially for larger lawns.

Is aerating a lawn worth it?
Yes, aerating a lawn is worth it as it helps improve soil structure, reduces soil compaction, enhances water and nutrient absorption, and promotes healthier root growth, leading to a more robust and lush lawn.

Should I scarify before aerating?
Yes, it is often recommended to scarify your lawn before aerating. Scarifying removes thatch and moss, which can improve the effectiveness of aeration by allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more easily.

Can I aerate my own lawn?
Yes, you can aerate your own lawn using tools like a garden fork, manual aerator, or renting a mechanical aerator from a garden center.

What to put on a lawn after aerating?
After aerating, you can apply top dressing (a mixture of sand, compost, and soil), overseed, and fertilize to enhance lawn health and promote new grass growth.

What are the drawbacks of aeration?
Drawbacks include the potential for damage to underground utilities, temporary disruption to the lawn’s appearance, and the cost and effort involved.

What is the main disadvantage of the aeration process?
The main disadvantage is the temporary disruption and potential damage to the lawn’s appearance immediately after aeration.

What happens when you don’t aerate?
Without aeration, lawns can suffer from soil compaction, poor water and nutrient absorption, buildup of thatch, and weak root systems, leading to unhealthy, patchy grass.

What is the best month to aerate my lawn?
The best months to aerate your lawn are typically during the growing season: in the UK, this is usually April to May in spring or September to October in autumn.

How to tell if a lawn needs aeration?
Signs that a lawn needs aeration include water pooling on the surface, thin or patchy grass, excessive thatch buildup, and difficulty pushing a screwdriver into the soil.

Should lawn be wet or dry when aerating?
The lawn should be moist but not overly wet when aerating. Aerating dry soil can be difficult and less effective, while very wet soil can become compacted and muddy.

What month should I scarify my lawn?
Scarifying is best done in the spring (April to May) or early autumn (September), allowing the lawn time to recover and grow.

Is a scarifier better than an aerator?
Scarifiers and aerators serve different purposes: scarifiers remove thatch and moss, while aerators relieve soil compaction. Both are important for lawn health, and one is not necessarily better than the other.

Do aerator shoes work?
Aerator shoes can provide some benefits, but they are generally less effective than mechanical or manual aerators because they do not remove soil plugs and may cause additional compaction.

How to aerate a lawn cheaply?
To aerate a lawn cheaply, you can use a garden fork to manually aerate the soil or rent an aerator from a garden center instead of hiring a professional.

How do I aerate my lawn without a huge machine?
You can aerate your lawn without a huge machine by using a manual aerator, a garden fork, or aerator shoes, although these methods may require more time and effort.

How many holes do you need to aerate a lawn?
Aim for around 20 to 40 holes per square foot to ensure adequate aeration.

Should you pick up plugs after aerating?
No, it is not necessary to pick up plugs after aerating. They will break down and decompose naturally, returning valuable nutrients to the soil.

Can you walk on a lawn after aeration?
It’s best to limit foot traffic on the lawn immediately after aeration to allow the soil to settle and the grass to recover.

Should I topdress after aerating?
Yes, topdressing after aerating can help fill in the holes, improve soil structure, and provide nutrients to the grass.

What kind of damage is caused by aeration?
Minimal damage occurs if done correctly. Poor aeration techniques or using the wrong equipment can damage grass and soil structure.

Is aeration really necessary?
Aeration is necessary for compacted lawns or those with heavy thatch, as it significantly improves soil health and grass growth.

What is poor aeration?
Poor aeration refers to inadequate or improper aeration, which can fail to relieve compaction, leading to poor grass health and growth.

What are the problems with aeration?
Problems with aeration include the potential for damaging underground utilities, uneven results if not done properly, and the cost and labor involved.

How effective is aeration?
Aeration is highly effective for improving soil structure, enhancing root growth, and promoting a healthier lawn when done correctly and at the right time.

Which of the following aeration systems have highest efficiency?
Core aerators, which remove plugs of soil, generally have the highest efficiency compared to spike aerators or manual methods.

Can I aerate my lawn with a pitchfork?
Yes, you can use a pitchfork to manually aerate your lawn, although it may be labor-intensive and less uniform compared to using a mechanical aerator.

Do lawns need to be aerated every year?
Lawns do not necessarily need to be aerated every year. It depends on soil compaction, lawn usage, and soil type. High-traffic lawns may benefit from annual aeration, while others may need it less frequently.

Does lawn need to be wet to aerate?
The lawn should be moist but not overly wet for optimal aeration. Moist soil is easier to penetrate and less likely to become compacted.