Thinking about Replacing Your Lawn?
These tips can help you avoid problems and have the best experience possible.
Choose a reputable dealer.
While nothing is fool-proof, it's always best to start with a reputable, established company. Ask for references from neighbors or friends or from the company directly (and don't be afraid to call them). Remember: all sod is not equal, and the cheapest price may not be a bargain.
Ask for the company's policies - in writing.
What will happen if the turf dies or becomes diseased? Is there any replacement guarantee, and what are the conditions? Do the policies vary if it's installed by the company versus installing it yourself? If you don't like the answers you receive, check with another seller. Always bear in mind that sod is a live plant, and as such, it's not always possible to guarantee that it will thrive. It's important to understand what each party's responsibilities are to avoid misunderstandings later on.
Know your site and choose the right turf.
Analyze your landscape and answer these questions:
- Do you have full sun and/or shady areas? How long are they shaded?
- What's your soil like?
- Will the area be irrigation or will the turf need to survive on natural rainfall?
- How will the area be used? Does it need to stand up to foot traffic? Dogs? Backyard ballgames?
- What do you expect from the turf? Do you want a certain appearance, color or level of maintenance?
Knowing these answers can help you choose the right turf type or determine where a groundcover or planting bed would be more feasible.
Correct any existing problems before you replant.
If you're replacing turf due to problems such as fungus, chinch bugs, or poor drainage, you should identify the problem and address it before you resod. Those hungry chinch bugs that gobbled up your previous lawn may just be waiting for the second course if you don't treat the area or choose a less susceptible grass type.
Get care and maintenance recommendations.
Be sure that you receive - and understand - recommendations on the correct care and maintenance for your turf type. It also helps to do some homework by researching the turf on the internet or checking with your county extension agent. For example, too much water can actually cause more problems than too little; weeds that develop 3-6 months after installation may be a result of Florida's "weed-friendly" climate, rather than an indicator of "bad sod".
Report problems promptly.
If you experience problems, contact your dealer promptly. It's not reasonable to ask for a replacement months after the initial installation, especially if the damage could have been caused by weather conditions like extreme cold or excessive rain or existing site problems, such as untreated pest problems or poor drainage.