The short answer
A grass lawn usually wins for a Cape May County shore house that people actually use, because it stays cooler, looks inviting to renters and guests, and gives kids a place to play. A stone yard needs no mowing, but it holds heat, grows weeds over time, and can look bare. Sprinklers make a lawn easy at a second home.
How they compare
Heat. Stone soaks up summer sun and can make the yard and the side of the house hotter. Grass stays cooler underfoot.
Weeds. Stone yards are not weed free. Weeds and sand blow in and take root between the stones, and pulling them is ongoing work.
Look and use. A green lawn makes a shore house look cared for and gives guests and renters space to sit and play. Stone is mainly something you walk past.
Upkeep. Grass needs mowing, feeding, and water. Stone needs weeding, raking, and topping up as it shifts.
Water. Sandy shore ground drains fast, so a lawn does best with a sprinkler system. Irrigation also lets an absentee owner keep the lawn alive without being there.
Cost. Our sod is priced per square foot installed at $2.85, with a $2,000 minimum, and that includes removing the old lawn and laying composted topsoil. Get a written price for stone that includes fabric, edging, and delivery so you compare the full job.
What you get with our sod
The Sod Squad Standard: a tall fescue blend, grown 9+ months, cut the morning of install, with no netting. We install sod only and never seed. New lawns come with a 30 day sod establishment guarantee when the watering plan is followed.
Common questions
Is a stone yard really maintenance free?
No. Weeds and blown sand settle between the stones, and the stone needs raking and topping up.
Will grass grow in sandy shore soil?
Yes. Composted topsoil goes down with every install as part of the rate, and steady water does the rest. A sprinkler system helps a lot on fast draining sand.
I am only at the house part of the year. Can I keep a lawn?
Yes. A sprinkler system keeps it watered while you are away. Our irrigation installs carry a 2 year parts and labor warranty, and we offer a $449 per year irrigation plan.
Which looks better to renters?
Most guests are drawn to a green yard they can use. Stone reads as low upkeep but can feel bare.
How do I get a price for sod at my shore house?
Send the address and we will measure the grass area and send a written quote.