Core Aeration vs Spike Aeration: What Works Best in Fort McMurray?

Quick Answer: Core or Spike for Fort McMurray?

For most Fort McMurray lawns, core aeration is the better choice for real soil compaction. Spike aeration has limited use.

• Core aeration: Removes plugs of soil → relieves compaction
• Spike aeration: Pushes holes in soil → can increase compaction in heavy soils

If your lawn has clay, heavy traffic, or puddles, core is the way to go.

What Is Core Aeration?

Core aeration uses a machine to:

• Pull out small soil plugs (usually 2–3 inches deep)
• Leave holes for air, water, and nutrients to enter
• Allow surrounding soil to relax and expand

Best for:

• Compacted Fort McMurray lawns
• Lawns with puddling or poor drainage
• Lawns you plan to overseed and topdress

What Is Spike Aeration?

Spike aeration uses solid tines or spikes to punch holes without removing soil:

• Tools: spike shoes, solid tine rollers, some hand aerators
• They create openings for water, but they push soil sideways

In heavy, clay‑based soils (common locally), this can actually compress the soil around the spike holes.

When Spike Aeration Might Be OK

Spike aeration may be useful:

• On looser, sandy soils
• For very light, cosmetic relief in a small area
• When you don’t have compaction, just want a little more water penetration

But for most Fort McMurray yards with clay or fill soils, spike aeration is not enough.

Fort McMurray Aeration Method FAQs 

Q: Is core aeration really better than spike for my Fort McMurray lawn?
A: Yes. In our typical heavier soils, core aeration is much more effective at relieving compaction.

Q: Will spike aeration hurt my lawn?
A: It usually won’t “hurt,” but it may not solve compaction and can make it worse in very dense soils.

Q: Should I pick a lawn service that offers core aeration?
A: If compaction is your issue, choose a company that does core aeration, not just spiking.