The Grounds Guys - Canada
Landscaper installing sod

Grass Seed vs. Sod

(Updated April 17, 2023)

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your new home or trying to spruce up your existing property, a lush, green yard is a great way to make your yard the envy of your neighbourhood,

There are two conventional choices for repairing or replacing lawn grass: sod and seed. If you’re leaning more towards sod, we have some pros and cons you will find helpful.

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Is Sod Better Than Seed?

Sod and seed are ideal for different applications. Sod is perfect for quick transformations and is suitable for property owners who have a larger budget. Grass seed is usually better for reviving an existing lawn and is a great option for DIYers who have a limited or smaller budget.

Why Choose Sod?

Laying grass sods in backyard

Sod provides you with an instant lawn that is visually appealing right away, but that’s not all. The benefits of installing sod on your property are numerous. Sod also helps with the following:

  • Helps prevent erosion on slopes and new construction sites.

  • Can quickly improve the look of your property instead of waiting for seed to grow.

  • Improves drainage and can help prevent flooding.

Sod is used widely at homes, businesses, schools, recreational fields, and golf courses. Of course, a lush, green lawn looks great, but it isn’t the only factor in your property’s curb appeal. If your lawn looks great, but the exterior of your home or business looks like it could use a refresh, consider adding some custom flower boxes to spruce things up.

The Pros and Cons of Sod

When it comes to choosing between grass seed or sod, there are valid arguments for and against each. Before you decide between sod or seed, here are some of the pros and cons of sod to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your home or business:

Sod Pros:

  • Speed: Depending on the size of the area you intend to cover, sod can be installed very quickly and usually easier to establish. Once sod is laid, you can walk, run, or play on your newly installed lawn within two to three weeks.

  • Flexibility: Sod can be planted at just about any time of the year as long as the ground is not frozen.

  • Reliability: Sod is already mature grass, so it’s much more reliable than seed.

  • Forgiveness: Most varieties of sod are hardy and, when properly installed and maintained, will take root quickly and flourish.

Sod Cons:

  • Cost: Sod is much more expensive than grass seed and may be cost-prohibitive for larger areas.

  • Labour-intensive: Laying sod over a large area takes time and considerable effort, which can result in sore muscles and back pain.

  • Installation: Proper preparation of the soil (including leveling the ground) is required to ensure success, which is why sod should be installed by a professional for best results.

  • Limited options: There are more varieties of grass seed to choose from than sod.

  • Replacement: Not all the sod will take root, requiring removal and replacement to maintain a cohesive look throughout the property.

Related Content: Can you plant grass seed in winter in Canada?

Should I Seed or Sod?

Sod is a great option for those who want a lush, green lawn without waiting weeks or months for grass seed to grow. Ultimately, the choice to seed or sod is yours. However, we do recommend connecting with a lawn care professional before embarking on your next lawn or landscape project. The experienced professionals at The Grounds Guys will help you make the right choice for your home or business, whether you opt for grass seed or sod installation. Our highly skilled team of lawn care experts will help you achieve the look and feel you desire with high-quality products and expert services to maximize your investment. To learn more or to get started, request an estimate online today!