Things You Should Know About Sod Installation
Having sod installed is a great way to instantly have a lush, green lawn. But there are a few things you should know about sod installation before you get started, so you can have the best results possible.
First, determine the size of your yard. This will allow you to calculate how much sod you need to order. You can do this by using our Area Calculator Tool or by drawing an overlay shape for the location you want to install your sod.
Then, prepare the yard for sod by rough-grading and removing any rocks or other debris from the soil. You should also remove any weeds or other plant matter from the soil, and make sure the ground is level.
Laying sod can be a daunting task, but with a little planning, it’s not difficult at all. The key is to plan ahead and be prepared for the weather.
Temperature is a big factor when installing sod, and it’s important to lay the sod on a day that’s warm enough for the sod to acclimate. If the sod is exposed to hot temperatures while in transit or on a pallet waiting to be installed, it can overheat and begin to deteriorate quickly.
Once the sod is in place, you’ll need to water it regularly. This is a crucial step to making the sod thrive, as it encourages root growth and establishment.
If you live in a region with frequent rainstorms, you may need to cover your pristine dirt with a tarp. This will keep the dirt from soaking through and forming mud, and help it to dry more quickly so your new sod can survive.
During this time, it’s best to avoid walking on the new sod. This can cause damage to the sod and make it harder for the roots to take hold.
To minimize the risk of sod damage, it’s best to wait at least a month after sod installation to walk on it. During this time, you can still use the lawn for playing and pets, but you should stay off it to ensure that the roots can grow properly.
You should also keep an eye on the weather and not let the sod become too dry, as this can cause it to rot. When it’s raining heavily or if the temperatures are dropping, you should also water the sod more frequently to ensure that it stays moist and can grow healthy and strong.
Before laying sod, you should test the soil for its pH and mineral levels. Then, add topsoil if needed to give the sod a base to root in.
A good rule of thumb is to add 2-4 inches of aerated topsoil and compost. Many people also add lawn fertilizer or lime to their soil, which helps to improve the health of the sod and increase the likelihood that it will thrive.
Next, lay the sod down, starting with one section of the lawn at a time. You should start by laying the sod along the longest edge of the lawn, such as a fence line. This will reduce the amount of cutting and fitting you’ll need to do later. You’ll also want to rake out any footprints as you go. This will also smooth out any wrinkles in the sod and make it flat against the soil underneath.
