Sod Installation Guide
Step 1 - Measuring & Ordering
Measure the area of your planned lawn. Include these measurements on a sketch of the lawn area, with the length, width, and any unusual features. Columbus Turf will be happy to assist you in determining the amount of turfgrass sod you will need from your sketch. Sod is sold by the square foot. To get the square foot of the area that you are sodding multiply the length by the width.
Schedule your order delivery of turf after preparatory work is completed and you are ready to install. Turfgrass sod should be installed within 24 hours of harvest. Prompt installation and a deep watering on the day of delivery is crucial to a strong beginning for your lawn.
Step 2 - Soil Preparation
For best results, roto till or spade the area to depth of 4 to 6 inches. Eliminate drainage problems by having soil slope away from foundations, etc.
Soil test your lawn area with the assistance of qualified service in your area. Then rake in fertilizer, lime, peat, compost etc. as needed to a depth of 3 to 4 inches. Rake and smooth the soil removing rocks, roots and large clods. Roll the area lightly with a lawn roller 1/3 full of water. This will firm the soil surface and reveal low areas that need more soil. Keep the grade 1 inch below sidewalks or driveway.
Step 3 - Turf Installation
Install your lawn immediately upon delivery. Begin watering lawn within 30 minutes of installation. Turf is a living plant that requires ground contact and moisture to survive.
In hot weather, protect unlaid turf by placing stacks in shade, covering with moist burlap sacking, and/or sprinkling.
Begin installing turf along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Butt and push edges and ends against each other tightly, without stretching. Avoid gaps and overlaps. Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim corners etc. Avoid leaving small strips at outer edges as they will not retain moisture. On slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope.
To avoid causing indentations or air pockets avoid walking or kneeling on the turf while it is being installed or just watering.
After installing the turf, roll the entire area to improve turf/soil contact and remove air pockets.
Step 4 - Watering
Give your new lawn at least 1 inch of water within 30 minutes of installation. Water daily or more often, keeping turf moist until it is firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Then less frequent and deep watering should begin.
Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering. Be certain that your new lawn has enough moisture to survive hot, dry, or windy periods. Water areas near buildings more often as reflected heat dries the turf.
Caution: During the first three weeks, avoid heavy or concentrated use of your new lawn. This gives the roots an opportunity to firmly knit with the soil, and insures that the turf will remain smooth.
Maintenance: Your new sod lawn increases your property value significantly. With proper care, it will remain a great asset, providing beauty, a clean playing surface, and improved environment.
Mow often, generally removing no more than 1/3 of the grass height at mowing. Keep your mower blade sharp.
Fertilizer and chemical applications will depend on climate, sod type, soil, insects, weeds and disease conditions.