Why compaction matters
Every footstep, mower pass and wet winter presses the soil under a lawn a little tighter. Compacted soil sheds water, holds less air and gives roots less room, and the grass above it thins even when it is fed and watered. Heavier soils and well-used lawns are affected most.
Hollow tines, not spikes
Solid spikes push a hole into the ground and can compact the soil around it. Hollow tines remove a core, which leaves space for air and water and lets the surrounding soil loosen. The cores are left on the surface to break down, or can be raked up.
Aeration works best when the soil is moist but not waterlogged and not frozen, and the grass is growing, which is why most of it is done in autumn with a second window in spring.
How we use it
Hollow-tine aeration is part of our Lawn Restoration package, after scarifying and before overseeding, because seed that falls into the holes gets good contact with the soil. If aeration is all your lawn needs, message us and we will quote for it after looking at the ground.
Price
Hollow-tine aeration is included in Lawn Restoration, from £170 for a 25 m² lawn. A stand-alone aeration is quoted once we have seen the lawn.
Questions
Is hollow-tine aeration better than spiking?
For compacted lawns, usually yes: removing a core relieves pressure rather than pushing the soil sideways. For a light, free-draining lawn that only needs a little air, a spike can be enough.
What happens to the cores?
They are left on the lawn to break down, or raked up if you prefer a tidier finish. Tell us when you book.
How often should a lawn be aerated?
Once a year is a sensible starting point for a well-used or heavy-soil lawn. Our guides explain how to judge whether yours needs it.