How to Replace Sod

Remove the dead sod using a sod cutter. If you are replacing a small area, remove it using a flat-edged shovel. Outline the dead sod by pushing the shovel's edge one to two inches into the soil. Hold the shovel at a 45 degree angle. Work the tip underneath the sod and push the shovel forward to peel the sod off the dirt.

Dig out a section of soil approximately six inches deep. Lay the soil on newspaper so it dries out. Call your local university to see if it conducts soil tests and how long the wait is to receive the results. If the university does not do this or the wait is too long, purchase a soil test kit from your local garden center and follow the manufacturer's directions.

Rake the bare area of soil with a metal rake. Remove any large soil clumps, rocks or sticks you come across. Level the soil's surface as you loosen the top two to three inches of soil.

Water the area lightly, just so the soil is moist. Unroll the sod and lay in over the area. Use a flat-edged shovel blade to cut the sod if it is too long. Water the new sod for five to 10 minutes.

Tamp the sod in place with a hand tamper as soon as the sod has dried enough to walk on. This removes any air pockets and improves the sod's root contact with the soil.

Water the sod with one inch of water every two to three days. If you are unsure how much water equals one inch, place a coffee can next to the sod. Check on the water level in the can. Once it equals about one inch, turn the water off. After two days, lift one of the sod's corners. If the soil still seems wet, wait until the next day to give it more water.

Fertilize your lawn according to the soil test's results. Wait approximately four to six weeks after laying the sod. If the soil test's results were normal, apply one pound of nitrogen fertilizer per 1,000 square feet.