How to Fix Gaps in New Sod

 It’s not uncommon to see gaps between pieces of new sod after installation. These gaps may occur due to a common oversight: not rolling the grass sod after laying it. Without proper rolling, sod can shrink and curl as it dries, leaving unsightly spaces. Another contributing factor is insufficient watering. New sod requires consistent moisture to establish properly, typically needing watering twice a day to the point of saturation for the first 10-14 days. If you think your sod is getting enough water, it’s often a good idea to water it a little more. Proper care and attention can address these gaps, resulting in a smooth, healthy lawn.

Why Gaps Between New Sod Are a Problem & How to Repair Them

While new grass will eventually spread and fill the brown areas between pieces, leaving gaps unaddressed can lead to significant issues. One of the primary concerns in new sod installation is that gaps create a prime environment for weeds to grow, leading to an unsightly and uneven lawn. Weeds can outcompete the new sod for nutrients and water, slowing its establishment and compromising its appearance. Gaps may also result in uneven soil exposure, making the lawn more susceptible to erosion and water pooling. Additionally, sod with persistent gaps may result in patchy areas of grass that disrupt the uniform look of your lawn.

Below are some actionable solutions to address these gaps effectively:

Proper Watering

Provide your sod with adequate watering during the establishment period. Watering twice daily until saturated—but not waterlogged—helps prevent the edges from drying out and curling. Pay special attention to areas where the sod pieces meet, as these are most vulnerable to drying.

Rolling the Sod

Rolling is a critical step in the sod installation process. Use a lawn roller immediately after laying the sod to press it firmly against the soil. This minimizes gaps and encourages root-to-soil contact, which helps the sod settle and become established.

Fill Gaps with Sod

If you have leftover sod from the installation—such as pieces trimmed to fit edges or corners—use these scraps to fill in the gaps. Cut the pieces to fit snugly into the spaces, ensuring they are level with the surrounding sod. Water the patched areas generously to help them establish alongside the rest of the lawn.

3 Installation Tips to Prevent Gaps in Sod

Preventing gaps during installation is always better than fixing them later. By following proper techniques, you can avoid the common pitfalls that lead to gaps and ensure a seamless lawn from the start.

Align and Press the Edges

When laying sod, pay close attention to where the ends of the pieces meet. Roll the edges of each piece toward the ground and align them tightly together so they meet at a level surface. This practice prevents curling and minimizes the risk of gaps forming as the sod settles.

Use a Sod Roller

After laying the sod, use a sod roller to compress it firmly into the soil. This step removes air pockets, helps the sod adhere to the ground, and promotes quicker rooting. As rolling facilitates better contact between the sod and soil, it reduces the risk of gaps forming as it shrinks.

Watering Tips for New Sod

Consistent watering is essential for successful sod installation. Water the lawn deeply and evenly, aiming to keep the soil beneath the sod moist but not waterlogged. The first two weeks are critical, and watering twice a day during this period ensures the sod establishes strong roots. Avoid walking on the sod during this time to prevent disrupting its contact with the soil.

For more guidance on addressing issues like uneven growth or discoloration in new sod, refer to our article, Troubleshooting Common Problems When Laying Sod. It offers additional insights to help you maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn.

Final Thoughts

Sod offers numerous benefits for creating a lush, healthy lawn. Unlike traditional seeding methods, sod provides faster, more uniform coverage, promoting better water infiltration and erosion control. This means you can enjoy a thriving lawn in less time. You can set the foundation for long-term lawn health and beauty by addressing gaps promptly and following proper installation practices.

Bethel Farms is a trusted provider of high-quality lawn care solutions, including sod and grass plugs, designed to meet the needs of various climates and soil types. Visit our website to learn more about our sod grass for sale and how we can help you achieve the lawn of your dreams.