Why not have a beautiful lawn right now with sod installation from Brayford Sod Farms?
With years of knowledge and expertise, our hard-working installation crew can provide you with a beautiful new lawn, usually within a day or less! Because sod is an investment, you want to be sure that the specialists you hire will consider all the factors that affect success.
Please view the sections below for information about sod installation. We invite you to view our photo gallery.
Soil Prepararion
If you are replacing your damaged lawn, there are 2 methods we recommend:
Method #1:
- Rototill the soil to a depth of 3 to 4 inches, rototilling first one way and then the other.
- Compact the soil by rolling the area to reveal any highs and lows in the grade.
- Final grade should be 1 inch below patios, sidewalks, and driveways.
- If the grade is low, add a good quality, screened topsoil to bring it up to the desired height.
- Always make sure the soil slopes away from buildings so water will run towards ditches.
- Rake and level the soil making sure the top 1 to 2 inches are loose – this will allow the new sod to root easily.
Method #2:
- Use a walk-behind sod cutter to strip the existing lawn.
- Roll up the old sod and remove it from the site.
- Rake the compacted soil to a depth of 2 to 3 inches, filling in any depressions as you go.
- Final grade should be 1 inch below patios, sidewalks, and driveways.
- If the grade is low, add a good quality, screened topsoil to bring it up to the desired height.
- Always make sure the soil slopes away from buildings so water will run towards ditches.
- Rake and level the soil making sure the top 1 to 2 inches are loose – this will allow the new sod to root easily.
How to INSTALL SOD
There are several steps to ensure sod is properly installed on your property. The following points will help ensure a successful installation process:
- Before placing your sod order, make sure the ground is completely prepped.
- People who are not used to physical labour should take it slowly and if required, seek assistance from friends or family.
- Locate a straight line, such as a curb or driveway, or stretch a taut string across the sodded area.
- To make the first row, work along this line.
- Smooth the area using a rake before placing each roll.
- Arrange rolls in a brickwork pattern. (Check out our photo gallery!)
- Ensure that all joints between the sods are tightly butted together and do not overlap. On steep slopes, staking is recommended.
It's never too early to start planning your Project!
For more information about our sod installation service in the Barrie area, please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions we get asked about sod installation:
Absolutely! Sod is the ideal product to use on slopes compared to alternatives. The method that works best is beginning the install at the bottom of the slope and working up. This way the rolls will fall down into each other, ensuring a tight fit. It is recommended to use sod stakes/staples to firmly attach the sod to the slope.
Sod can be installed throughout the year. If we are harvesting, then you can install it! The ideal time to install sod is in the spring and fall months, as the temperatures are cooler and there is more natural rain. Sod can be successfully installed in the summer, although it will require more attention during the establishment period.
Generally, we recommend avoiding foot and pet traffic for at least 2-4 weeks until the sod is fully rooted. To determine if it has rooted, pull on the edges of a few rolls. If there is significant resistance, it means that it has taken root and can withstand traffic and mowing.
New sod should only be mowed when you are confident that the root system has established itself within the soil. To determine if it has rooted, pull on the edges of a few rolls. If there is significant resistance, it means that it has taken root and can withstand mowing. Be patient with this process. If you have doubts, it is safest to wait a few more days. Always start with your mower at its highest setting and slowly move down settings over the next month until you have reached your desired height. The optimum mowing height for Kentucky Bluegrass is 3 inches.
Advantages of Sod Installation
Sodding provides the following advantages over lawns grown from seed:
- You’ll have a lush, green lawn INSTANTLY!
- Dust, mud, and erosion can all be controlled using sod.
- The top quality seed varieties used by Brayford Sod are far superior than the seed found at most retail suppliers.
- Sod absorbs heat and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by absorbing carbon dioxide and converting it to oxygen.
- A beautiful, healthy lawn increases the curb appeal and value of your property.
Top-quality Installation Services
Brayford Sod Farms is happy to assist you with farm fresh sod for your home and business. We have the skills and equipment to meet all your sod installation needs.