Last updated on March 31st, 2022
Cost of lawn scarification
Looking for a way to encourage good, dense grass growth in your garden? Lawn scarification could be the answer. Here, we’ll break down the typical cost of lawn scarification.

Looking for a way to encourage good, dense grass growth in your garden? Lawn scarification could be the answer. Here, we’ll break down the typical cost of lawn scarification.
What is lawn scarification?
Lawn scarification is when sharp blades are used to break up surface thatch before it’s raked away and removed. By removing dead leaves, moss and grass from your lawn, you can help to increase the nutrients that reach the roots and encourage stronger grass growth.
Item | Unit | Cost - low | Cost - high |
---|---|---|---|
Lawn scarification service | Per lawn | £50 | £125 |
DIY lawn scarification | Equipment purchase | £10 | £400 |
Our costs are ballpark averages – get a local tradesperson to quote now
What’s the average cost of lawn scarification?
Lawn scarification usually costs between £50 and £125 per lawn. However, the total cost will depend on a number of factors such as:
- The size of your lawn.
- Its condition.
- If scarification is carried out manually or with a machine.
- Whether your lawn needs other lawn treatments in conjunction with scarification.
Just a few lawn treatments that are commonly carried out at the same time as scarification include fertilisation, overseeding or aeration. Lawn aeration involves breaking up or removing sub-surface thatch, whereas scarification involves removing thatch from a lawn’s surface and up to 2mm below. Whether you need both will depend on how good your soil’s drainage is and how compact your lawn is.
How much does DIY lawn scarification cost?
If you’re looking to save on the cost of lawn scarification, you might be considering doing it yourself. To do so, you’ll need to purchase the correct equipment. A mechanical lawn scarifier can cost anywhere from £60 upwards, whereas a manual scarifier will usually cost around £30.
The cheapest option is to simply use a rake to remove the thatch, which could cost in the region of just £10 if you don’t already have one.
Be careful though, because lawn scarification can be a tiring job so it’s important not to overdo it. If you’re not used to manual work, it might be safer to get a professional in. It will certainly be quicker and easier and the results will be a lot better in the long run.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to get a professional lawn treatment, take a look at our lawn treatment service cost guide.
FAQs
What are the benefits of lawn scarification?
Lawn scarification allows nutrients, air and water to better circulate beneath the soil and reach your grass’ roots. By removing obstructions, such as thatch and moss, you can better encourage good grass growth.
When should lawn scarification take place?
Lawn scarification should usually take place once a year, either in late spring or early autumn. It’s important to do it at a time where grass growth is strong because if it’s slow, the space you create by scarifying could instead be filled with weeds. For this reason, you should be careful that you don’t scarify too early in spring.
How do I know if my lawn needs scarifying?
If your lawn feels spongy or soft underfoot, that can be a sign that there’s too much water retention, moss or thatch present. Lawn scarification could help you to treat the problem. A professional will be able to best advise you on when the right time is and what it specifically needs to help it flourish.
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