DIY Network

Desperate Landscape: Garage Facelift and Sod Replacement When you can't see the grass for the weeds, sometimes it's best to just start from scratch. From "Desperate Landscapes" episode DDSL-102

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Figure H

Sod Removal

We're creating a bed that is 7 feet wide by 35 feet long. We also remove most of the turf in the yard as it has seen much better days. For a large job, consider renting two sod cutters. A sod cutter (figure H) rents for about $50 a day. Here are the basic steps and tips for removing the old sod.

• Always follow the instructions that come with the sod cutter.

• Wear boots or heavy shoes when operating.

• Cut strips of sod and then roll up and remove the strips.

• Sod cutters don't always work on hillsides and can be dangerous on a slope.

• Use a spade with a sharp edge to remove sod on hillside.

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Figure I

Lay New Sod

• Joe and Margie's lawn looked a little worse for wear so we laid 180 yards of new sod (figure I). Here are step-by-step instructions for laying sod.

• Install along the longest straight line (like a driveway or sidewalk)

• Push edges together tightly. You don't want gaps, but avoid stretching the turf.

• Stagger joints in a bricklike fashion.

• Use a sharp knife to trim edges.

• Avoid small strips on outer edges as they won't retain moisture.

• Water new sod within an hour of laying it and water regularly for first two seasons to establish root system.

• Avoid mowing new sod until it is 4 to 5 inches long.

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