Lawn installation methods

Sod vs. seed vs. hydroseed vs. artificial turf.

100% Free Always, no catch
No signup Use it instantly
No payment Ever, for anything
No spam Email is optional
← All categories

Sod (rolled turf)

$1.50–$3 / sq ft installed
Lifespan
Permanent (proper care)
Maintenance
Medium–high — mow, water, fertilize seasonally
Climate fit
Match the variety to your zone (Bermuda south, Fescue north)
Install time
1 day install; 2–3 weeks to fully root
Pros
  • Instant lawn
  • Reliable establishment
  • Reduces erosion immediately
Cons
  • Most expensive method
  • Limited grass variety choices
  • Heavy, hard to DIY large areas

Grass seed

$0.10–$0.40 / sq ft
Lifespan
Permanent (proper care)
Maintenance
High first season — water daily
Climate fit
Best in moderate, predictable rain seasons
Install time
1 day prep + seed; 6–12 weeks to establish
Pros
  • Cheapest by far
  • Widest variety choice
  • Easy DIY
Cons
  • Bare ground for weeks
  • Birds eat seed
  • Patchy results possible

Hydroseed

$0.50–$1 / sq ft
Lifespan
Permanent (proper care)
Maintenance
High first season — water daily
Climate fit
Best on slopes and large areas
Install time
1 day spray; 4–8 weeks to establish
Pros
  • Better coverage than seed alone
  • Erosion control on slopes
  • More uniform than dry seed
Cons
  • Mid-tier cost
  • Less variety choice than dry seed
  • Needs contractor with sprayer

Artificial turf

$7–$18 / sq ft installed
Lifespan
15–25 years
Maintenance
Very low — rinse, brush occasionally
Climate fit
Hot climates heat the surface significantly; otherwise universal
Install time
2–4 days
Pros
  • Zero watering or mowing
  • Always green
  • Pet-friendly varieties available
Cons
  • Heat retention in sun
  • Plastic environmental footprint
  • Replacement cost at end of life

Ready to estimate a project?

The calculator covers all the materials shown above. Free, no signup.

Open the calculator →