Sod is the fastest and best way to get a lush, green lawn in Central Texas. Unlike seeding, which rarely works here, sod provides instant results. No waiting, no hoping, just grass. But if you want it to last, it has to be installed correctly.
Here’s what you need to know before tackling a sod project yourself—or if you’d rather leave it to the pros, we’d love to help.
How We Install Sod Like Pros
Installing sod isn't just about laying down grass—it’s about doing it right so it thrives. Our owner, Nolan Gore, walks you through the process to ensure long-term success. Watch the video below to see how we make it happen:
If you’re doing it yourself, take notes. If you’d rather have us handle it, click here to get a free quote.
Step 1: Remove the Old Grass
This is where most DIYers (and plenty of “pros”) go wrong. You can’t just mow short and slap sod on top—the old grass and weeds need to be fully removed so the new sod can root properly.
- We use a sod cutter to remove the top layer, including roots.
- You can do this with a shovel, but it’s backbreaking.
- Removing the old material also helps eliminate lingering weeds.
Want to prevent weeds before they start? Check out our fertilization & weed control services.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Good sod needs good soil. Lay it on bad dirt, and you’ll be replacing it soon.
- We bring in fresh topsoil, a mix of quality soil and compost, to give your new grass the best start.
- We grade the area to ensure proper drainage.
- We check irrigation coverage because if your sprinklers aren’t reaching all areas, your sod won’t survive. See our irrigation services for tune-ups.
Step 3: Lay the Sod
This is when things start looking good.
- Sod should be laid in a brick pattern (not in rows) to avoid visible seams.
- Start along a straight edge and work across the area.
- Stagger the seams and fit pieces tightly together - no gaps means fewer weeds.
Step 4: Final Touches
A few finishing steps make all the difference.
- We use a heavy roller to press the sod into the soil, ensuring good contact for fast rooting.
- We water thoroughly right after installation - soaking it until the ground feels like a damp sponge.
- For the first two weeks, it’s all about keeping it wet to encourage strong root growth.
How much does sod cost?
Installed sod starts at $5.50 per square foot, with pricing based on:
- Grass type (St. Augustine, Bermuda, Zoysia, etc.)
- Logistics (Is your yard easily accessible? Does it need extra prep work?)
- Size (Larger jobs often lower the cost per square foot.)
Sod vs. Seed (Spoiler: Sod Wins in Austin)
People often ask if they can just seed their yard instead of installing sod.
- If you have Common Bermuda, maybe.
- If you have St. Augustine, Zoysia, or any other turfgrass, seeding won’t work—sod is the way to go.
What Type of Sod Should You Get?
Not all sod is created equal. Here are the most common options:
St. Augustine – Thick, Green, Shade-Friendly
- Works well in partial shade
- Needs regular watering
- Soft underfoot, great for families
Bermuda – Tough, Sun-Loving, Heat-Resistant
- Handles high foot traffic
- Requires full sun
- Most budget-friendly option
Zoysia – The Middle Ground
- Tolerates some shade and moderate foot traffic
- Lower maintenance than St. Augustine
- Slower to establish but very durable
Want to Get Sod Installed?
We’ve been doing this a long time, and we know what works in Austin. If you need sod, we can help.
Or, if you’re a DIYer, grab a shovel, prep the soil, and follow the steps above.