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How Long Does it Take to Install Sod?

Sod is mature lawn that is grown and cut into strips or squares. It consists of a layer of grass with several layers of soil below it. It is ideal for creating a new lawn on a prepared surface of 2 inches of topsoil. The amount of time to sod an area will depend on the size of the area being sodded and the number of workers doing the sodding.
  1. Time to Sod

    • A rule of thumb: three people can install a pallet of sod in one hour. A pallet of sod equals 500 to 700 square feet of lawn. The usual process consists of two people transporting the sod to the area, while the third person places the sod. If possible, adjust the number of people working on the lawn so the process takes no longer than a day; sod will rot if not installed in a timely manner, or if rolled, will burn from the fertilizer used during growth.

    Considerations

    • Sod is best laid in either the spring or fall seasons. If there are weeds in the prepared surface, they should be removed before the sod is placed. Choose a sod that is compatible with the area being sodded. For example, lawns that get plenty of sun can get effective results with bluegrass, whereas fescue sod is better for an area that is shady or does not see much sunlight.