How To Remove Old Grass And Lay New Turf

How To Remove Old Grass And Lay New Turf

A tired lawn doesn't fix itself. If you're dealing with bare spots, weeds, uneven ground, or grass that never bounces back, how to remove old grass and lay new turf is the cleanest way to start over.

The work is upfront, but done right, you end up with a smooth surface, better drainage, and a lawn that finally looks like it belongs in your yard.

This guide walks through the best removal methods, how to prep the site, and the correct installation approach for both sod and artificial turf. You'll also get a clear aftercare plan, because the first two weeks are when most new turf succeeds or fails.

What this article covers:

Installing Sod Vs. Artificial Turf: What Changes?

The removal step is similar for both options, but the base build is not. Choosing turf vs grass affects everything from drainage to how repairs work later.

  • Sod (natural turf): Real grass that needs direct soil contact and consistent watering so it can root into your yard.
  • Artificial turf: Synthetic grass that needs a compacted base, tight seams, and infill management for stability and appearance.

If you want a living lawn that can thicken and recover season after season, sod and seed are the better long-term play. If you want a low-mow surface for a small zone, turf can fit. Most homeowners end up with a combination: turf in a high-traffic strip, natural grass everywhere else.

how to remove old grass and lay new turf 1

Best Ways To Remove Old Grass

The best method depends on your lawn size, timeline, and how clean you want the removal to be.

Option 1: Use A Sod Cutter (Fastest For Full Lawn Removal)

A sod cutter is the cleanest, fastest way to remove a full lawn. It slices under the grass roots and lifts the turf in strips you can roll up and haul away.

  • Ideal for medium to large lawns
  • Creates a consistent removal depth
  • Usually available as a rental tool at equipment stores

After cutting, rake up loose roots and debris, then plan your base prep based on whether you're laying sod or artificial turf.

Option 2: Dig It Out By Hand (Best For Small Areas)

Hand removal works well for small yards, patch areas, or tight zones where a sod cutter won't fit. It takes time, but it gives you control.

  • Use a flat spade or sharp shovel
  • Slice under the grass in sections and lift it out
  • Remove as much root mass as possible
  • Rake thoroughly so you're not installing over loose organic debris

Hand removal is also a good choice when you need to reshape a yard for drainage or build around existing landscaping.

how to remove old grass and lay new turf 2

Option 3: Kill The Grass First (Herbicide Or Solarization)

If you're not in a hurry, killing the lawn first can make removal easier. It can also reduce regrowth issues from aggressive grasses.

  • Herbicide: Works quickly but requires careful use and timing.
  • Solarization: Uses clear plastic to heat and kill grass without chemicals, but it can take weeks, depending on the season.

Even after killing the lawn, you still need to remove the dead turf and roots before laying new turf. Dead grass left under turf becomes a soft layer that settles and causes uneven spots.

If weed pressure is already a problem in the area, controlling weeds before and after installation prevents future headaches. Using a pre emergent herbicide is especially useful for keeping weed seeds from taking over bare soil during the renovation window.

Prep The Area Before Laying New Turf

Start with these steps:

  • Remove leftover roots, stones, and debris. Organic material breaks down and creates settling.
  • Fix grading and drainage. Water should move away from the house and out of low spots.
  • Address compaction. If you're laying sod, loosen compacted soil so roots can grow.
  • Plan edges and borders. Edging helps both sod and turf hold shape over time and prevents creep.

If your soil has been stressed for years, amendments help. Using a soil conditioner can improve structure and make the soil easier to work, especially if you're dealing with tight clay or sandy fill dirt.

how to remove old grass and lay new turf 3

Base Prep For Sod vs Base Prep For Artificial Turf

Your base needs to match the turf type. Sod fails when it can't root. Artificial turf fails when the base shifts.

If You're Installing Sod (Natural Turf)

Sod needs soil contact, moisture, and a firm, level surface. Soft, fluffy soil causes low spots and scalping after mowing.

  1. Loosen the top 4 to 6 inches of soil with a tiller or rake, especially if the yard is compacted.
  2. Add a thin topsoil layer if your existing soil is poor or rocky.
  3. Level and firm the surface so the sod sits flat and makes full contact.
  4. Correct low spots now, because sod will follow the contours you leave behind.

If you're in a warm climate and want a durable natural lawn, TifTuf Bermuda Sod Roll can be a strong choice for high-traffic yards. For shade-heavy areas, Tall Fescue Sod fits where other grass types struggle.

One of the biggest benefits of turf is that it establishes faster when it's properly fed. A balanced nutrition plan using lawn fertilizer supports rooting, density, and recovery, especially after the stress of transplanting.

If You're Installing Artificial Turf

Artificial turf needs a stable, compacted base that drains. If the base is loose, turf ripples. If drainage is poor, odor and mildew become problems.

  1. Excavate to the proper depth so turf sits flush with hardscape.
  2. Install base material in layers, often decomposed granite or similar.
  3. Compact thoroughly after every layer using a plate compactor or hand tamper.
  4. Fine-grade the surface smooth with no bumps or dips.
  5. Consider a weed barrier depending on site conditions, especially near mulch beds or fence lines.

Conclusion

Replacing a lawn is mostly about prep. How to remove old grass and lay new turf comes down to clean removal, proper grading, and building the right base for the turf type you choose.

Take your time with leveling and compaction because those steps prevent the most common long-term issues: sinking, ripples, poor drainage, and weak establishment.

If you're rebuilding a natural lawn after removal, start with quality grass seed, strengthen establishment with lawn fertilizer, and prevent weed blow-ins with a smart pre emergent herbicide plan.

For an easy, guided approach all year, try the Lawn Synergy lawn care subscription. We keep things simple while maximising your results.

Ready to learn more about lawn care? Check out these articles:

Back to Lawn Guide