How to Dispose of Sod: Tips on What to Do With Removed Sod

Posted by Joe Mouad on Jun 22, 2023 11:00:00 AM

If you've got a sod project in mind and you’re already thinking, “Why do I need to dispose of the old sod? I’ll just lay the new stuff over the old,” well, it’s a good thing you’re here. 

You can’t do that. 

Before you lay new sod, you need to tear out the old stuff, so your new sod’s roots can snuggle down into fresh, quality soil to take root. 

So, what to do with removed sod?
 
Let’s take a look.

First, Why It’s Important to Remove Old Sod

Your new sod needs to establish its roots in the soil, to take advantage of the water and nutrients there. The faster it takes root, the healthier it will be.

Leaving a layer of grass underneath your new sod prevents it from taking root and increases the chance that the new lawn will die from a lack of nutrients and moisture. 

landscape technicians installing new sod lawn

Installing sod over existing grass also interferes with proper grade. You want the soil base level with other surfaces like sidewalks and driveways — not higher than them.

So, that old stuff has to come out. Then you’ll have to figure out where to dispose of removed sod.

If You’re Doing It Yourself…

You’ll need to rent a sod cutter, a walk-behind machine powered by a small gas engine. 

It has a sharp blade that slices through the old turf. You can rent them at most rental companies that handle lawn equipment.

Be prepared. It’s physically demanding to maneuver the heavy, unwieldy sod cutter. It really vibrates. It weighs about 350 lbs. You have to wrestle it through the lawn. About a third of the way through is where most homeowners wish they had hired a sod installer.

landscape technician and sod cutter for sod removal

Once the sod is cut, use pitchforks, rakes, or shovels to toss the sections of turf into a dumpster. You’re probably going to end up with a lot more debris than you’re expecting once it’s time to figure out what to do with old sod. 

After all that, you still have to hoist the heavy sections of old turf into a wheelbarrow.

Next Up: Where to Dispose of Sod?

Whether you get rid of your own old sod or you hire a company to do it for you, it all goes to the same place here in Central Florida— the landfill.

The cost to dispose of it there is about $35 per ton. A pallet of sod equals around a ton of waste.

Access The Ultimate Guide to Sod Installation & Maintenance

Here at Ground Source, most of our customers hire us to both remove their existing turf and then install a fresh new sod lawn. That means our crews dispose of the old sod, and removal is included in the total cost.

Too Much Hassle? Trust Your Central Florida Sod Installation to Ground Source

Tearing out old sod and then disposing of it is kind of a pain.

Do yourself a favor and leave it to the pros. Let the experts here at Ground Source do the tough work

If you decide the DIY dirt, labor and stress are too much of a hassle, we’d love to expertly install your fresh, healthy, new sod lawn.

We’re Central Florida sod experts, but our skills don’t stop there. We’re with you every step of the way as you plan your perfect outdoor space.

Sod, irrigation, landscape design: Let us transform your yard from an embarrassing eyesore to a place you spend every spare minute.

Are you ready to enjoy the vibrant, impressive yard you've always wanted? Request a quote today! We’ll help you review your options and then transform your property.

The Ultimate Guide to SodRequest a Quote

Posts Related to Sod

Posted by Joe Mouad on Dec 17, 2024 4:35:19 PM

How Much Does it Cost to Replace Artificial Turf With New Sod?

Artificial turf is having a moment lately, but it’s not good.

More and more municipalities are banning or considering banning the use of this always-green turf, because it’s not great for the environment.

There’s increasing concern that the runoff from artificial grass is toxic, containing chemicals and heavy metals that can contaminate waterways, soil and air. The pushback from environmentalists and community residents is growing.

Is it time to ditch your synthetic turf? How do you change fake grass to real grass?

Posted by Joe Mouad on Aug 21, 2024 11:28:00 AM

Different Types of Sod - What Will Work Best in Your Lawn

If different sod types had a talent show, you’d see all kinds of cool stuff: Best in sun! Great in the shade! Holds up to dog pee! Prevents erosion!

So when you’re looking for the best types of sod, there are a few solid choices, depending on your property’s unique situation.

The best sod for Orlando is typically varieties of St. Augustine and Zoysia, with a couple of exceptions for certain situations.

Pick the wrong sod for your site, and you’ll have a constant battle to keep it healthy and looking great.

What’s the best sod for Orlando? It depends. What’s going on out there on your property?