Sod Installation Steps
Download the Installation Guide (PDF)
Cultivated turf allows you to enjoy a lawn of instant beauty and maturity without the usual time-consuming hassles of seeding.
Lakeside Sod is a proud member of Turfgrass Producers International (TPI). Our sod is grown locally for our climate zone to ensure the finest quality and performance. Below are the basic steps to achieving a beautiful lawn. For site-specific recommendations, contact the Lakeside Sod team.
Step One
Measuring and Ordering
To measure for sod, calculate the square footage of the area you plan to cover. Divide the area into simple shapes, measure each one, then add the areas together. Use the calculator below to build your total as you go.
Step Two
Soil Preparation for Installation
Good sod on bad soil still fails. Work through these seven stages before your delivery arrives.
01
Clear the Area
Clear the site of any and all debris, including rocks, sticks and weeds.
02
Rough Grade
Rough grade is the process of making a level or sloped base for projects like turf establishment.
- Rough grade the entire area to prevent drainage issues.
- Always slope away from buildings.
03
Till the Soil
- Initial tilling of at least four to six inches is recommended.
- Do this before adding any topsoil to allow for adequate water movement.
04
Add Topdressing
- Add topdressing especially if your soil lacks nutrients. Our topdressing is tested at a pH of 7, which is ideal for growing.
- Your soil should be a minimum of four inches in depth.
05
Apply Starter Fertilizer
Apply a starter fertilizer, then lightly rake it into the soil before laying sod.
06
Finish Grade
Finish grade the entire site, making sure to maintain uniform drainage of rainwater. The soil should sit about 1 inch below the level of sidewalks and driveways so the grass sits flush once installed.
07
Ready for Sod
The site is now ready for turfgrass sod. Remember to water the sod as you lay it. Sod will wilt quickly on hot days.
Step Three
Turf Installation
Begin installing turf along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Butt and push edges and ends against each other tightly, without stretching. Avoid gaps or overlaps.
Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim corners. After installing the turf, roll the entire area to improve turf to soil contact and remove air pockets.
Start watering within 30 minutes of laying the first piece.
Do not wait until the whole yard is finished to start the sprinklers. Turf is a living plant that requires ground contact and moisture to survive. Install the same day it is delivered.
Step Four
Watering
Water is what turns delivered sod into a rooted lawn. The schedule changes as the roots take hold.
Within 30 minutes
1 inch of water
Give your new lawn at least 1 inch (2 to 3 cm) of water immediately after installation.
First 2 weeks
Daily, or more often
Keep the turf and underlying soil consistently moist until it is firmly rooted. On hot days this may mean watering more than once.
After the tug test
Less often, deeper
After 2 weeks, gently tug the grass. If it resists, it has rooted. Shift to deeper watering 2 to 3 times a week.
Step Five
After the First 2 Weeks
Once the sod has rooted, your goal shifts from survival to established growth.
01
The First Mow
Mow for the first time once the grass is 3 to 4 inches tall, usually 2 to 3 weeks after installation.
- Hold off on watering the day before you mow so the soil is firm.
- Mow at a 45 degree angle to the way the sod was laid. This stops mower wheels sinking into the seams or ripping the edges.
02
Second Feeding
Apply another round of fertilizer 4 to 6 weeks after installation. This replaces nutrients used during the intense rooting phase and keeps the color vibrant.
03
Protect the Roots
Avoid heavy foot traffic, pets and lawn furniture for at least 3 to 4 weeks. The roots are delicate as they knit into the soil, and giving them peace now prevents divots and dead spots later.