Can I do it myself? You don’t need to be a landscaper to install sod!  Use the 5 R’s: Rotary till compost or other organic matter (3.5 cubic yards per 1000 square feet of area) into existing soil.  This will help prevent compaction and help the soil retain moisture. Rake out any lumps or rocks.  Soil should be of a fine consistency. Roll the ground with a roller to prevent settling.  Rollers can be rented inexpensively. Roll out the sod, staggering the ends. Roll over the sod with a roller, ensuring good root-to-soil contact. BASIC STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL LAWN STEP 1 – Measuring and Ordering With a tape, measure the area of your planned lawn. Make a sketch of the area including the length, width and any unusual features. We will be happy to determine the amount of sod you will need. Schedule your order for delivery of turf after preparatory work is completed and you are ready to install. Prompt installation on the day of delivery is crucial to a strong beginning for your lawn. For more help on measuring your lawn click here.  STEP 2 – Soil Preparation For best results, rototill or spade the area to a depth of 4-6 inches. Eliminate drainage problems by having soil slope away from foundations, etc. Rake in fertilizer, peat, compost, etc. as needed to a depth of 3-4 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. Keep the grade 1-inch below sidewalks or driveway. Water the area to settle soils and provide a moist base for sod. Watering 6 inches is recommended for most soils. STEP 3 – Turf Installation Install your lawn immediately upon delivery. In hot weather, protect unlaid turf by placing stacks in the shade, covering with moist burlap sacking and/or sprinkling. Begin laying sod 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 or 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. After installing, roll the entire area to improve turf/soil contact and to remove air pockets. (Less traffic on newly laid sod means less air pockets and indentations)   STEP 4 – Watering Give your new lawn at least 1 inch of water within 1/2 an hour of installation. Water daily or more often, keeping sod moist until it is firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Gradually, less frequent but deeper watering will be required. Water areas near building more often where reflected heat dries the turf.