Sod Removal With a Bobcat

Hand Removal

• For a small job, remove sod by hand. Edge the outline in the existing lawn with a knife or shovel blade to the depth of the sod, and then cut it into manageable sections. Lift the sod from underneath with the shovel, and roll it up. Sodcutters are small machines typically similar in size to a lawn mower, but heavier. Their size makes them most suitable for small projects.

Skid Steer Loader Advantages

• Small loaders reduce most of the labor associated with sod removal. The outline still needs edging by hand. The toothed bucket attachment then lifts the sod cleanly from the edge, leaving the existing lawn intact. Skid steer loaders are light, nimble and leave little disturbance on the existing ground, especially if the operator plans the work to minimize turning. Water the lawn when the work is finished, and the existing grass recovers.

Associated Work

• Cut roots that lay under the sod for the equipment so that they can be removed without disturbing the tree or the ground beyond the outline. The loader can also spreads additional material, such as topsoil or gravel, on the site. A good operator minimizes the need to hand rake. New sod placed on pallets can be dropped near the site with the forklift attachment.

Coordinating the Work

• It's cost effective to coordinate the sod removal project with typical landscape tasks around the site that a skid steer loader can manage. Different attachments give them multitasking flexibility. Accomplish debris removal, rough grading on small sites and pulling out tree stumps for only a little more time on the machine. An equipment operator may provide a dump truck for an increased hourly rate.