Thinking of replacing your lawn because of weeds, dead patches, or chemical damage? Many homeowners assume re-sodding is the only solution - but that’s often not the case.
Here’s how Yard Dawgs helped a Calgary homeowner restore a severely damaged, weed-filled lawn without replacing the sod, saving thousands in the process. We’ll also break down the true cost of re-sodding vs. professional lawn restoration, so you can make the smartest decision for your yard.
This homeowner’s lawn was overrun with dandelions. Like many people, they decided to take matters into their own hands. Unfortunately, one critical mistake changed everything: using Roundup, a non-selective herbicide that kills everything it touches.
While the dandelions were eliminated, so was the grass.
Large sections of the lawn turned yellow and brown, leaving bare patches and chemically stressed soil. At that point, the homeowner believed full sod replacement was unavoidable - a process that would cost thousands of dollars.
Before committing, they contacted Yard Dawgs to see if the lawn could be saved.
Dandelions are notoriously difficult to remove. Their taproots can reach 10 inches deep, and if even part of the root remains, the weed will return.
Selective herbicides are designed to kill broadleaf weeds without harming grass. Non-selective products like Roundup do not differentiate - which is how this lawn ended up with:
At first glance, re-sodding sounds like a clean reset. But the reality is far more involved — and expensive.
Step 1: Kill Existing Grass
Step 2: Remove Old Sod
Step 3: Fix Soil pH (Critical in Alberta)
Step 4: Add Proper Topsoil
Step 5: Level & Roll Soil
Step 6: Install New Sod
≈ $2,700–$3,000 (and that’s before labor mistakes or delays)
In Calgary, professional sod installation typically ranges from $1.50–$2.00 per sq. ft., pushing costs even higher.
So now your property is completely void of grass, what’s next?
Instead of tearing everything out, Yard Dawgs recommended a smarter, proven approach: our Lawn Care Packages are designed specifically to recover stressed, damaged lawns.
This lawn recovery was made possible through a season-long, integrated treatment plan, including:
Each service plays a role - fertilizer feeds growth, aeration opens compacted soil, seeding fills bare spots, and weed control prevents competition while grass recovers.
By late September, after fall aeration and seeding, the lawn had fully recovered. What once looked dead was now thick, green, and healthy.
Re-Sodding
Lawn Restoration
Savings: well over $1,000, with healthier results.
Fall is ideal for recovery because cooler temperatures and consistent moisture allow grass to establish strong roots with less stress.
Re-sodding may be necessary when:
But most lawns can be restored - even ones that look “dead.”
With the right treatments, patience, and proper timing, damaged grass can rebound stronger than before.
A weed-filled or patchy lawn does not mean you’ve failed - and it certainly doesn’t mean you must replace everything.
This Calgary homeowner nearly spent thousands on re-sodding. Instead, the lawn was restored for a fraction of the cost through professional care and a strategic plan.
You deserve a healthy, green lawn. With the right approach, you can achieve it - without ripping everything out.