Ground Prepartion prior to Sod Installation
Before you have your sod delivered, or pick it up at the farm, it is important that the ground preparation is completed. This will insure that you can immediately install the sod once it arrives. Quick installation will insure great results and a healthy lawn for years to come.
Note: When working with pallets of Sod, never cover them directly with a tarp, keep them in a shaded area, and spray them periodically with a garden hose to keep them wet. Sun, heat and wind can dry out the newly delivered Sod.
Initial Ground Prepartion & Installation
Spray weeds with RoundUp® or a glyphosate product, and let sit 1 week. Repeat if necessary Remove existing weeds, rock and debris from the area Spread three cubic yards per thousand square feet of surface with compost Roto-till the compost to a minimum of four inches deep Rake the installation site until it is smooth and level. Smooth out the grade on any hills or slopes to be sodded.
Grade areas next to driveways and sidewalks to 1.5 inches below top of concrete. Use a roller, wheel pack, or water to firm up & compact the freshly tilled ground. Rolling the yard is not necessary but can help the sod to contact the soil. It can smooth out minor imperfections, and can be repeated a week or two later to creat ultra smooth sod areas.
Rainfall and snow also will settle the tilled ground naturally. Good soil preparation can help you use up to 30% less water on your yard. Have all hoses & sprinklers on site & ready for the initial watering. Check to make sure all underground sprinkler systems are operational.
Set your sprinkler clock timer for the initial watering sequence: see watering tips on the FAQ's page. Install the Sod immediately upon arrival. Lay the Sod in a horizontal brick pattern as illustrated below:
Lay the ends and sides of the Sod rolls tightly together, with no overlapping.
Install the Sod around obstacles or small places by cutting it with a Sod knife.
After you have laid an area that is about 10 by 15 feet, water immediately.
Continue laying and watering in segments that are about 10 by 15 feet.
Once all the Sod is installed, water immediately for 20 - 30 minutes
Make sure that traffic on the Sod in minimal for a two week period
Follow the watering instructions as outlined in watering tips on the FAQ's page.
