Sod Installation Guide

The Following are basic steps to a beautiful lawn:

Step 1 − Measuring & Ordering

With a tape, measure the area of your planned lawn. This can be done by marking off your lawn into square sections. Measure the square yardage of a section by multiplying the length times the width and dividing by nine, the result is square yardage. Repeat this for all sections of your planned lawn. Finally, add all square yardages together. The formula is as follows: (Length) x (Width) /9 = Square Yards.
Schedule your order for delivery of sod after preparatory work is completed and when you are ready to install. Prompt installation on the day of delivery is crucial to a strong beginning for your lawn.

Step 2 − Soil Preparation

For best result, rototill or spade the area to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.
Rake and smooth the soil removing rocks, roots, and large clods.
Roll the are lightly with a lawn roller 1/3 full of water. This will firm the soil and reveal low areas that need more soil.
When preparing soil, keep the grade 1 inch below sidewalks, driveways, patios etc. This will ensure a smooth transition from sidewalks to grass areas.

Step 3 − Turf Installation

Install your lawn immediately upon delivery. Begin watering your new lawn within 30 minutes of installation. Sod is a living plant that requires ground contact and moisture to survive!
Begin installing sod along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk
Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp utility knife or sod cutter to trim corners etc.
Butt and push edges against each other tightly, without stretching. Avoid leaving gaps or overlaps as they can turn yellow and not root down properly.
Avoid leaving small strips at outer edges along driveways and sidewalks as they will not retain enough moisture to survive.

Step 4 − Watering

Give your new lawn at least 1 inch of water within � hour of installation.
Continue to water your lawn twice daily for 2-3 weeks. Watering cycles should take place in early morning and late evening. Watering in the middle of the day is not recommended, as the direct overhead position of the sun can heat the water and cause the grass blades to wilt and turn brown.
After 2-3 weeks of daily watering your new sod lawn should be firmly rooted down. At this point, less frequent and deeper watering cycles should begin.
Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering. Be certain that your new lawn has enough moisture to survive hot, dry, or windy periods.

Your new sod lawn increases your property value significantly. With proper care, it will remain a great asset, providing beauty, a clean playing surface, and an improved out-door living environment.