Step 1
Check the surface
Ensure your terrain is flat, without holes or significant slopes. Correct any imperfections immediately and create slight inverse slopes away from the property to prevent water accumulation.
Practical Guide
Sod Installation Guide
If you wish to install the cultivated sod purchased from Discount Sod yourself, we recommend that you read the following steps. With the right tools and a simple method, you can achieve a clean, straight, and durable result.
Before Starting
Before you begin installing your sod rolls, make sure you have all the necessary equipment on hand. Good preparation will make the job much simpler, faster, and more precise from the very first lines of installation.
Necessary Items
✓A strong string
✓Sod stakes
✓A rake
✓A wheelbarrow if you have a long distance to cover
✓A retractable utility knife (Exacto)
✓A long-range sprinkler
Site Preparation
Start with a clean and well-leveled base
Before unrolling any sod, it's important to observe the surface and correct any imperfections. A well-prepared ground will facilitate installation and help achieve a more uniform final result.
Step 2
Align as needed
If you want to ensure proper alignment, use a string held by sod stakes. This step is optional but very useful next to cedars or a building.
Step 3
Spread rooting fertilizer
Spread the rooting fertilizer directly onto the soil using a small handheld spreader or manually. If done by hand, lightly rake afterward to prevent the formation of piles.
Pro Tip
Start with the perimeter of the work area
Once the ground is ready, choose an installation direction, for example, from the back of your yard towards your home. It is advisable to install the first rolls around the entire perimeter of the work area first. This will allow you to follow your strings more easily and avoid having to make a final cut near a heat-absorbing surface, such as paving stones or asphalt.
Installation
How to install the rolls step by step
A methodical installation will help you maintain straight lines, avoid gaps, and minimize reworks. Take the time to regularly check the result during installation.
4
Transport and align
Begin transporting the rolls. If the distance is long, use a wheelbarrow. Align them without unrolling, one at a time across the width, to form your first line.
5
Unroll without gaps
Once the first line is complete, unroll the sod rolls smoothly, making sure there are no gaps between the sod pieces.
6
Check the line
Repeat this action over the entire surface, occasionally checking that your sod remains straight and does not form an "S". If necessary, correct the installation immediately.
Irregular Terrain
What to do if the terrain requires cuts?
If the shape of the terrain to be sodded is irregular or if a dimension does not allow installation without cuts, it is preferable to let the rolls overlap initially, then cut the excess at the end.
Step 7
Allow to overlap
In more complex sections, first let the rolls overlap slightly. This simplifies adjustment and allows for a cleaner cut at the end.
Step 8
Cut with precision
Once the installation is complete, use your Exacto knife to cut the excess sod and clearly define the desired surface, for example around a tree.
Important
Use a new blade
Equip yourself with an Exacto knife with a new blade and change it often. A damaged blade will tear the sod instead of cutting it.
Important rules for accurate cutting
1
If you have a cedar hedge, leave 12 inches (1 foot) of space between the trunks and the start of your rolls.
2
For an above-ground pool, leave between 8 and 12 inches of space between the sod and the pool to prevent moisture from causing rust.
3
If you have a Japanese stepping stone path, place the sod on top and cut around it without leaving any gaps.
Finishing
Cleaning and immediate watering
Once your sod rolls are in place, there are two essential steps to take immediately to properly finish the job.
9
Clean the area
Clean your work surface by collecting and discarding sod scraps to leave a clean area ready for watering.
10
Water immediately
Water your new sod immediately. This is the most important step to promote good rooting from the very first hours.
11
Don't wait if the surface is large
If you have a large area to sod, do not wait until the entire installation is finished before starting to water. Begin as soon as possible during the work.
Summary
The right habits for installing your sod yourself
Good preparation, straight installation, and immediate watering are the three keys to a successful installation.
Prepare the ground well
Fill holes, level the surface, mark sprinklers, and spread fertilizer before starting installation.
Install methodically
Align the rolls well, avoid gaps, and quickly correct any line that deviates or forms an "S".
Water immediately
Immediate watering is essential, especially on a large area or during installation in hot weather.
Need help with watering after installation?
To learn about adequate watering after installation, you can consult our maintenance article or contact our team for quick and accurate advice.