Should I Hire A Professional Or Just Rent An Aerator
Almost every lawn should be aerated at least twice a year. Once in the spring and once in the fall. Right before the grasses start growing quickly & just before they go dormant for the winter or summer (depending on what area of the country you live in). Mountainous regions require lawn aeration more often of offset the severe compaction of the soil. Discussing whether to rent an aerator or find a lawn aerator hire is really a toss up and ends up being a decision of preference.
The advantages to rent lawn aerator are:
First it can be cheaper to rent over hiring a professional. Some companies charge as much as $100 for just one aeration. But several small companies charge just $40 (which is about the same amount as the rental). However, several neighbors can go in on a 4 hour rental and split the cost of the rental. Also, if you have a larger lawn, you are more likely to save by renting and doing the work yourself over hiring someone.
Second, it can be more convenient to rent an aerator. Of course you do have to go pick and drop off the machine, it can still be more convenient. Several of the companies who do not charge very much for aeration require you to aerate on their time. They offer a one day or one week span in which they will aerate your lawn in a given season. The reason they offer such a low price is because they are already in the neighborhood trying to do as many aerate as many lawns as possible. Often times, they will not show up for a different appointment or not even offer a separate appointment time, because they make more money staying in the neighborhood they are working in. One way to avoid this is to go with the more reputable, but much more expensive companies.
And last, its fun to aerate. Its not too often in a year that you get to use such a big machine. And if you feel confident with running equipment, it can be really fun. Aerators are easy to use and quick to shut down if you run into a problem. Perhaps, if you find it suits you, you could make a couple of extra dollars by aerating your neighbors’ lawns as well!