DIY or Rent? When to Rent Landscaping Equipment for Your Next Project

Taking on a landscaping project in Utah? Whether you’re installing sod, spreading gravel, or building a retaining wall, the right tools make all the difference. But here’s the big question: Should you buy or rent landscaping equipment?

At TDS, we know the balance between DIY landscaping tips and budget-friendly solutions. Here’s how to decide when it’s worth renting vs buying tools—plus the most common equipment Utah homeowners rent for big outdoor projects.

When to Rent vs. Buy

Buying tools might seem convenient, but for large or infrequent projects, renting often saves you money, space, and hassle.

Rent if:

• You’ll only use the tool once or twice a year

• The equipment is large and hard to store

• You need professional-grade power for a short-term job

• You want to try a tool before investing in it

Buy if:

• You use the tool often for maintenance (e.g., shovels, rakes, pruning shears)

• Storage space isn’t an issue

• The tool is affordable and easy to maintain

Commonly Rented Landscaping Equipment in Utah

Utah landscaping projects often involve heavy materials like topsoil, gravel, and sod, plus unique climate challenges like compacted clay soil. That’s why many homeowners rent equipment such as:

1. Wheelbarrows & Carts – For hauling soil, mulch, and rocks across your property.

2. Soil Spreaders & Tillers – To loosen compacted Utah clay and mix in compost or topsoil.

3. Sod Cutters – For removing old grass before sod installation.

4. Plate Compactors – To level and compact soil or gravel for patios and walkways.

5. Post Hole Diggers & Augers – For fencing, pergolas, and planting large shrubs.

6. Mini Skid Steers – For moving heavy materials quickly in larger yards.

Benefits of Renting Landscaping Equipment

• Cost Savings – Pay only for what you need, when you need it.

• No Maintenance – We handle repairs, tune-ups, and cleaning.

• Access to Pro-Grade Tools – Get better results than with basic homeowner equipment.

• Flexibility – Rent for a few hours, a weekend, or a week.

DIY Landscaping Tips for Utah Homeowners

1. Plan ahead – Schedule your rental equipment early, especially in spring and fall when demand is high.

2. Measure your space – Know your square footage for sod, gravel, or mulch before renting tools.

3. Match the tool to the job – Don’t over- or under-size equipment—ask our team for recommendations.

4. Prepare your site – Clear debris before your rental period starts to maximize usage time.

Why Rent from TDS?

At TDS, we make landscape equipment rental in Utah simple and affordable. Our rentals are:

• Cleaned and maintained for top performance

• Available for short- or long-term use

• Backed by friendly, local service

Whether you’re tackling a small DIY backyard makeover or a large property overhaul, we’ll help you choose the right tools for the job.

Ready to Rent?

Contact TDS today to reserve your landscaping equipment and get expert advice for your next Utah project.