Installation

1. Determine amount of sod needed for your project

To measure the area you must take the length in feet and multiply by the width in feet and this will give you the square feet needed. Unity Sod would be happy to help with estimating quantity.

(Example – 12’ x 10’ = 120 square feet)

2. Base Preparation

Remove any existing weeds or stones and work the soil by using a rototill or spade to a depth of 4 to 6 in. Rake the soil bed smooth and level. Eliminate drainage problems by having the soil slope away from houses or buildings. The base should be approximately an inch lower then final grade to allow for roots and soil that come on the sod. For best results, test your soil and add appropriate fertilizer. Unity Sod would be happy to help with testing the soil and suggesting the best fertilizer for optimal growth. Finally roll the area lightly and adjust any low areas.

3. Apply starter fertilizer to stimulate root growth

4. Laying Sod

Lay sod as soon as possible after receiving. Storing sod in a shaded area until ready to use will help to extend the life of it if you are unable to install it immediately. Lay the first pieces along the longest straight section such as a sidewalk or driveway (This will give you a straight line to follow). Make sure to butt edges and ends as close as possible to avoid gaps. Stagger the joints in each row so that the end seam on one row falls in the center of the previous row. If you have a slope you should lay sod perpendicularly across the slope to prevent it from sliding. You may require the use to stakes to keep it in place. Roll the sod after install to remove any air pockets and establish good root contact with base. Avoid standing on newly planted sod; if necessary use a board while installing to help distribute your weight.

5. Watering

Saturate your lawn within ½ hour after installation. Pay attention to the seams along walkways, driveways and buildings because they dry out quickly. Water every day for the first week, making sure to keep soil under the sod moist at all times until it is firmly rooted which may take up to two weeks. Try to avoid any heavy use on your lawn for the first three weeks to give the roots and opportunity to bind to the soil as well as insure that the sod remains smooth. Only mow your newly laid sod after it latches (do a tug test by pulling on a few areas to see if it can easily be pulled up)