Best New Lawn Installation (Sod & Turf) in Maine Ranked

Find top-rated sod installers and artificial turf pros in your area. Whether you want a lush natural lawn fast or a low-maintenance synthetic yard, the right contractor can transform your outdoor space. Use Landscape Atlas to browse local companies, compare services and photos, and request quotes from installers who fit your project and budget.

What is sod installation and artificial turf?

Sod installation is the process of laying pre-grown grass rolls or slabs over prepared soil to create an instant lawn. It's popular for new builds, lawn replacements, and areas where you need coverage quickly-like before a home sale or event.

Artificial turf (also called synthetic grass) uses layered materials-base rock, shock pad (optional), and turf-with infill brushed into the fibers. It delivers a consistently green, low-water surface for yards, pet runs, play areas, rooftops, and side yards where natural grass struggles.

Both services require proper grading and drainage to look great and last. The best choice depends on your climate, water costs, sun exposure, and how you use the space.

Is natural sod or artificial turf right for you?

Every yard is different. Here's a quick guide to help you think it through:

• Choose sod if you want:
  • A natural look and feel with real soil biology
  • Cooler surface temperatures in summer
  • Lower upfront cost and the option to seed/overseed later
• Choose artificial turf if you want:
  • Minimal watering and mowing
  • Durability in shade, high-traffic, or drought-restricted areas
  • A tidy, mud-free space for kids and pets year-round

Keep in mind:

• Sod needs regular watering for the first several weeks while roots establish. After that, you'll mow, fertilize, and manage weeds like a normal lawn.
• Turf can get warmer in direct sun. Shade trees, lighter infill, or cooling infills can help. Pet areas may benefit from antimicrobial infill and added drainage.

How Landscape Atlas helps you find local pros

Landscape Atlas is a service directory that makes it easy to discover sod installation and artificial turf companies near you. Browse business profiles, see photos of past work, read customer feedback where available, and contact multiple installers to compare quotes. We don't pre-vet providers or perform any installation work; we simply bring local options together so you can make an informed decision.

Ready to compare local pros? It's quick and free.

Typical costs and what affects your price

Prices vary by region, site conditions, and material quality. Use these ballpark ranges to set expectations and then get itemized bids from a few local installers.

Sod installation costs

• Material (sod rolls or slabs): roughly $0.35-$1.00 per sq. ft., depending on grass variety and season
• Installed (including basic soil prep and labor): often $1.50-$4.50 per sq. ft.
• Add-ons that increase cost:
  • Removal of existing lawn, debris hauling, and disposal
  • Grading, additional topsoil, compost, or soil amendments
  • Irrigation repairs or a new sprinkler system
  • Hard-to-access areas or slopes requiring erosion control

Example: A 1,000 sq. ft. front yard might land between $1,800 and $4,500 for typical tear-out, prep, and sod, with more for complex grading or irrigation work.

Artificial turf installation costs

• Material (residential turf): commonly $2-$7 per sq. ft. (higher for premium fibers or cooling tech)
• Installed: often $8-$18+ per sq. ft., depending on base depth, edging, infill type, and site complexity
• Add-ons that increase cost:
  • Extra-deep base for heavy use or vehicle loads
  • Drainage layers or shock pad underlayment
  • Pet-oriented antimicrobial infill and deodorizing systems
  • Custom shapes, seams, or intricate hardscape borders

Example: A 500 sq. ft. dog run might range from $5,000 to $9,000, while a simple, open backyard could price lower per square foot.

Pro tip: Ask each bidder to separate material, base preparation, and labor. It's the fastest way to compare apples to apples.

Installation timeline: what to expect

For sod

• Site visit and quote: 1-3 days after contacting the company
• Scheduling: usually 1-2 weeks out in peak season
• Prep and installation: 1-3 days for most residential yards
• Establishment: 2-6 weeks of vigilant watering; light foot traffic after 2-3 weeks; full use after roots knit

For artificial turf

• Site visit and quote: similar 1-3 days
• Scheduling: 1-3 weeks, depending on crew availability and materials
• Prep and installation: 1-5 days, driven by square footage and complexity
• Cure and use: adhesives typically cure in 24-72 hours; then it's ready for regular use

Weather, permits (if required), HOA approvals, and material lead times can shift these estimates.

Key materials and components

Sod systems

• Grass variety: Choose for your climate and sun/shade pattern (e.g., fescue, bluegrass, Bermuda, zoysia, St. Augustine).
• Soil preparation: Weed removal, tilling or scarifying, leveling, and adding compost/topsoil as needed.
• Starter fertilizer and wetting agents: Help roots establish quickly.
• Irrigation: Sprinklers or drip lines ensure even coverage; a functional system is critical the first weeks.
• Edging and transitions: Clean lines around beds, walks, and hardscape.

Artificial turf systems

• Excavation and base: Typically 3-4 inches of compacted crushed rock (more for heavy use), graded for drainage.
• Geotextile fabric: Optional separator to reduce weed intrusion and keep base stable.
• Shock pad or underlayment (optional): Adds cushioning for play/sport applications.
• Turf roll: Look at pile height (often 1.5-2 inches), face weight, stitch rate, and fiber shape for realism and durability.
• Seaming materials: Seam tape and adhesive or specialized seam systems for invisible, strong seams.
• Edging: Bender board, pavers, or metal edging to frame and anchor the perimeter.
• Infill: Silica sand, coated sand, TPE/cork, or pet-friendly antimicrobial infills; quantity affects performance and feel.
• Fasteners and finishing: Nails or staples at proper spacing, power brooming, and final grooming.

How to prepare your site

• Measure your space carefully and note obstacles (trees, sprinklers, utility boxes).
• Check sun and shade patterns; take photos to show installers.
• Address drainage issues, puddling, or downspout discharge before work begins.
• Confirm HOA guidelines and city rules; some communities regulate front-yard turf.
• Plan irrigation: repairs or redesign often pay off in even growth (sod) and easier rinsing (turf).
• Call 811 before any digging to locate utilities.
• Decide on pet areas, play zones, or garden borders so installers can plan seams and edges accordingly.

How to compare quotes the smart way

Ask each company to include the same scope so you can make a true comparison:

• Demolition: Will they remove existing sod, weeds, and debris? How many inches of soil or base are they excavating?
• Base and grading: Depth of base material, compaction level, and final slope away from the home.
• Materials:
  • Sod: grass variety, square footage, and delivery freshness window
  • Turf: brand/model, pile height, face weight, stitch rate, backing type
  • Infill: type and pounds per square foot
  • Edging: specific product and linear footage
• Seams and transitions: Number and location of seams; details for meeting patios, planters, and walkways.
• Irrigation: Cap, reroute, repair, or new system; parts list included?
• Warranty: Manufacturer (product) and installer (workmanship) terms, including what's excluded.
• Cleanup and hauling: Included disposal and site protection plan.
• Timeline and crew: Start/finish dates and whether the bidder uses employees or subcontractors.
• Payment schedule: Deposits, progress payments, and final payment upon walkthrough.

Questions to ask potential installers

• Are you licensed (where required) and insured? Can you provide a certificate of insurance?
• How many projects like mine have you completed in the past year?
• Can I see recent, local references and photos of similar work?
• What soil/base preparation do you recommend for my yard and why?
• Which turf brand/grass variety are you proposing, and what are the alternatives?
• How do you handle seams and edges to prevent lifting or tripping hazards?
• What drainage improvements, if any, are needed?
• What is and isn't covered by your workmanship warranty?
• Who will be on site each day, and who is my point of contact?
• How will change orders be handled if site conditions differ from the estimate?

Signs you might need new sod or turf

• Persistent bare spots, thinning grass, or widespread weeds despite maintenance
• Ongoing muddy areas, puddling, or erosion after storms
• Water restrictions or high water bills making lawn care unsustainable
• Heavy pet traffic causing dead patches or odors
• Shade areas where grass won't thrive
• A new landscape plan that requires consistent, low-maintenance surfaces
• Allergies or sensitivities that make mowing and fertilizing undesirable

Maintenance basics after installation

For sod

• Watering: Keep sod and the top 4-6 inches of soil consistently moist for the first 2-3 weeks. Gradually reduce frequency as roots establish.
• Mowing: First mow when grass reaches about one-third higher than your target height; keep blades sharp.
• Feeding: Starter fertilizer at install (if recommended), then follow a seasonal plan for your grass type.
• Traffic: Limit heavy use until roots knit; avoid turning vehicles or equipment on new sod.

For artificial turf

• Rinsing: Hose off dust and pet areas as needed; periodic enzyme treatment can control odors.
• Brushing: Power broom or stiff-bristle brush high-traffic zones to keep fibers upright.
• Infill top-ups: Add infill occasionally where displacement occurs.
• Spot repairs: Address lifted edges or seams promptly to avoid larger fixes.

Warranties and expectations

• Sod: Short "freshness" windows from the farm and limited establishment guarantees are common. Success depends on watering, soil prep, and weather.
• Artificial turf: Manufacturer UV and wear warranties can range 8-15 years for residential products; workmanship warranties from installers often run 1-3 years.
• Exclusions: Improper maintenance, pet damage, hot surfaces (like grill embers), reflective window scorching, and floods are typical exclusions. Read the fine print and keep records of care.

Local rules, licensing, and insurance

Regulations vary by state and municipality. Some areas require landscape or specialty contractor licenses for turf/sod work; HOAs may have design rules for front yards. Always verify a company's license status (if applicable) and ask for proof of general liability and workers' compensation coverage. If irrigation work is included, confirm backflow compliance and any required permits.

How to use Landscape Atlas to get the best result

• Search your city or ZIP to see sod and artificial turf installers nearby.
• Open a few profiles to compare photos, services, and service areas.
• Request multiple quotes with the same scope using the checklist above.
• Review feedback from other homeowners where available, and share your experience after the job.

Note: Landscape Atlas lists independent businesses for your convenience. We do not pre-screen, endorse, or verify providers, and we do not perform installation work. Always do your due diligence and choose the contractor that feels right for your project.

Take the next step with confidence. Explore local sod and artificial turf installers on Landscape Atlas, compare options side by side, and choose the pro who will bring your lawn vision to life.

Frequently asked questions