Power Raking vs. Aerating 

Power raking, sometimes called dethatching, and core aeration are not substitutes for each other even though lawns do experience some common benefits.

Power raking removes excess organic debris from the surface of the lawn. This is important for improving water infiltration, air circulation, and nutrient absorption. Dethatching is also important when overseeding, as it can improve seed-to-soil contact for improved growth.

Core aeration is meant to reduce soil compaction and improve grass root development. This type of aeration involves removing plugs or cores of soil to reduce compactness. Aeration can also improve water infiltration, air circulation, and nutrient absorption.