DIY Installation Guides
DIY Sod Installation Guide
Install sod yourself with confidence. Our step-by-step guides cover everything from site prep to long-term care for professional results.
Tools & Materials Needed
Essential Tools
- Garden rake
- Lawn roller (rent)
- Sharp knife or sod cutter
- Wheelbarrow
- Garden hose with sprinkler
- Soil tester
Materials
- Sod (calculate with our tool)
- Topsoil/compost
- Starter fertilizer
- Soil amendments (if needed)
- Landscape staples (slopes)
Installation Steps
1
Site Preparation (1-2 days before)
- Remove existing grass, weeds, and debris
- Grade for proper drainage (1-2% slope away from structures)
- Till soil 4-6 inches deep
- Test soil pH and add amendments if needed
- Level and smooth with rake
- Apply starter fertilizer
- Lightly water and let settle overnight
2
Laying the Sod (Installation Day)
- Install same day sod is delivered (within 24 hours)
- Start along longest straight edge
- Lay pieces in brick pattern (stagger seams)
- Push edges tightly together, no gaps or overlaps
- Cut around curves and obstacles with sharp knife
- Roll entire area with lawn roller when complete
- Water immediately after installation
3
Initial Watering (Day 1)
- Water within 30 minutes of installation
- Soak thoroughly until water puddles slightly
- Check soil moisture 1" below sod - should be damp
- Edges and corners need extra attention
- Avoid foot traffic for 2-3 weeks
4
Establishment Care (First 30 Days)
- Follow watering schedule (see our Watering Guide)
- Check rooting progress after 10-14 days
- First mowing when grass reaches 1.5x normal height
- Set mower to highest setting for first cut
- Light fertilization after 4-6 weeks
- Monitor for pests and diseases
Pro Tips for Success
✓Install in morning or evening to avoid heat stress
✓Never let sod sit on pallet > 24 hours
✓Water edges 2x as much - they dry faster
✓Avoid walking on new sod for 2-3 weeks
✓Don't fertilize heavily until established
✓Monitor daily for first 2 weeks
Calculate Your Materials
Use our free calculator to measure your yard and estimate sod quantities
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