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Homeowners who want to install their own sod can buy directly from the sod farm to cut costs. Before ordering the sod, homeowners should know how to measure their lawn.
One of the simplest ways you can improve the value and beauty of your property is by installing sod. Sod is only slightly more expensive than seed, and its benefits make up for the cost. Often the cost ends up being comparable or even less than the cost of seeding because it is easier to care for sod. Measuring for sod and ordering the sod are the first steps in achieving that beautiful, sod lawn.
Using a long tape measure or measuring wheel, measure the area to be sodded. If you do not have a measuring wheel, it helps to have two people measuring to make sure the measurements are accurate.
You may need to break up the area into separate, manageable squares or rectangles to get a more precise estimate. As you measure, write down the lengths and widths of the separate areas in feet. Add them together to get a total length and width and multiply the numbers to get the area in square feet. Most sod distributers sell by the square foot; however, some sell in square yards.
For square yards, take the square feet estimate and divide by nine. It’s a good idea to measure the property more than once to double check your numbers. Also, you may want to add 10-15 percent more to your estimate to be sure you order enough.
Most landscaping companies and nurseries buy directly from a sod farm and then sell to the customer at a higher price. So, to get a better price, avoid the middle man and order directly from the sod farm. Nearly all sod farms sell to private homeowners along with larger companies. Also, most sod farms have price breaks depending upon the amount you order and the distance they’ll be driving to deliver it.
Often, you can even save money by driving to the farm to pick up the sod yourself if you have a large enough truck to hold it; approximately 900-1200 square feet will fit in the back of a standard pickup truck.
Different types of sod grow well in different climates and conditions. Some varieties do well in direct sunlight, others do well in shade, and others do well with little water. Most likely, the sod farm in your region will grow the sod most likely to do well on your property, but it is still good practice to ask.
Call all the farms in your area and ask the following questions.
Now, that you’ve measured the lawn and ordered the sod, you’re halfway there. The next steps are lawn preparation and sod installation.
