Sod Installation

Why Choose Sod Over Seed

Sod gives you instant results that seed simply cannot match. When we install sod, you get a fully established lawn in just a few weeks instead of waiting months for seed to germinate and fill in. This is especially valuable if you are selling your home, hosting an event, or just tired of looking at bare dirt and mud. Sod also prevents erosion during rainy weather and keeps dust down in dry conditions.

In Daly City, CA, our coastal climate creates challenges for seeded lawns. Cool temperatures and fog can slow germination, and winter rains can wash away seed before it takes root. Birds and other animals often eat exposed seed, creating bare patches that need reseeding. Sod eliminates these problems by arriving already established with a mature root system ready to anchor into your soil.

Another advantage of sod is consistency. When you seed a lawn, you get uneven coverage with thick areas and thin spots. Sod provides uniform coverage from day one, with no gaps or bare patches. You also avoid the hassle of keeping seed constantly moist for weeks, which is difficult and wastes water. With proper care, sod establishes quickly and becomes a durable, long-lasting lawn that handles foot traffic and regular use.

Our Sod Installation Process

Site Preparation and Soil Work

Proper preparation is the foundation of a successful sod installation. We start by removing old grass, weeds, and debris from the area. Next, we grade and level the soil to ensure proper drainage and eliminate low spots where water pools. If your soil has issues like heavy clay or poor drainage, we can amend it with compost or other materials to create better growing conditions.

We also test the soil grade to make sure water flows away from buildings and hardscapes. Poor grading causes water to collect near foundations or in the middle of your lawn, creating soggy areas and potential structural problems. Once the grade is correct, we rake and smooth the surface to create a level bed that makes sod installation easier and more uniform.

Sod Selection and Installation

• Choosing high-quality sod varieties adapted to coastal climates
• Ordering fresh sod delivered the same day we install it
• Laying sod in tight seams with no gaps or overlaps
• Staggering seams like brickwork for a seamless appearance
• Rolling the sod to eliminate air pockets and ensure good soil contact
• Watering thoroughly immediately after installation

Professional sod installation requires precision and experience to achieve the best results. Every seam must be tight, every roll must be level, and the entire surface must make good contact with the prepared soil below.

We work quickly to install sod before it dries out or becomes stressed. Fresh sod contains moisture and nutrients that help it establish roots in your soil. The tighter and more precise we lay the sod, the better your lawn will look once it fills in. After installation, we provide detailed care instructions so you know exactly how to water and maintain your new lawn during the establishment period.

Caring for Your New Sod

The First Few Weeks

Your new sod needs consistent moisture to develop deep roots. For the first two weeks, you should water lightly several times a day to keep the sod and top inch of soil moist but not soaked. As roots grow into the soil, you can gradually reduce watering frequency and increase the amount per session. This encourages roots to grow deeper in search of water, which makes your lawn more drought-tolerant over time.

Avoid heavy foot traffic on new sod until it is fully rooted, which usually takes about three weeks. You can test this by gently pulling on a corner of the sod. If it lifts easily, the roots have not anchored yet. Once it resists pulling, the sod has established and can handle normal use. We also recommend waiting to mow until the grass reaches about three inches tall, then cutting no more than one-third of the blade length at a time.

Long-Term Maintenance

After your sod establishes, it needs the same care as any mature lawn. Regular mowing and maintenance keep it healthy and attractive. If you have an irrigation system, adjust it to deep, infrequent watering that promotes strong root growth. Apply fertilizer according to soil test recommendations to provide necessary nutrients without overfeeding.

We offer ongoing maintenance plans that take the guesswork out of lawn care. Our crew handles mowing, edging, trimming, and seasonal treatments so your sod continues to thrive. With proper care, your sod lawn will stay green and healthy for many years, providing a beautiful outdoor space for your family to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions