The short answer
Choose sod for slopes, erosion-prone spots, small areas, or when you need a usable lawn fast. Choose seed for large areas, tight budgets, or when you want a specific grass variety, and you can wait 2–3 months for it to fill in.
| Sod | Seed | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Much higher per sq ft | A small fraction of sod |
| Usable lawn | 2–3 weeks (once rooted) | 8–12 weeks or more |
| Labor | Heavy: a pallet covers about 450–500 sq ft and weighs over a ton | Light, but needs daily watering until established |
| Best timing | Most of the growing season | Early fall for cool-season grass, late spring for warm-season |
| Weeds | Mature turf crowds them out right away | Weeds compete while seedlings are young |
Prep is the same for both
Either way, the lawn is only as good as the soil. Remove old turf and weeds, then spread 4–6 in of good topsoil over poor or compacted ground. Grade it away from the house, roll it lightly, and water before installing. 1,000 sq ft at 4 in is about 12.3 cubic yards of topsoil. The topsoil calculator does this math.
How much to buy
- Sod: measure the area and add 5–10% for cuts along curves and edges. One roll usually covers 10 sq ft, and one pallet about 450–500 sq ft. See the sod calculator.
- Seed: rates depend on grass type, from about 1–2 lb per 1,000 sq ft for Bermuda up to 6–8 lb for tall fescue on a new lawn. See the grass seed calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Can I lay sod over existing grass?
It's not recommended. The old grass dies under the sod and leaves an air gap that stops roots reaching the soil. Strip the old turf first.
How long before I can walk on new sod?
Keep off it, except to water, for about two weeks, until the roots have grabbed. Gently tug a corner: if it resists, it's rooted.
Is hydroseeding a middle option?
Yes. Hydroseeding sprays seed, mulch and fertilizer as a slurry. It costs more than DIY seed and less than sod, and it's popular for large or sloped areas.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14. Figures are typical averages; confirm with your local supplier.