Landscaper Sod FAQ's - Greenhorizons News

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Ordering & Logistics

“Does Greenhorizons Sod Farms offer contractor accounts or wholesale pricing?”

Yes, Greenhorizons offers professional contractor accounts with wholesale pricing, volume discounts, and trade terms for licensed landscapers. We’ve been serving Southern Ontario’s landscaper sod industry for over 40 years and understand the business needs of professional installers.

Contractor Account Benefits:

Wholesale Pricing:

Volume-based discount structure
Better margins than retail pricing
Competitive rates for ongoing business
Additional discounts for large projects

Priority Service:

Preferred delivery scheduling
Rush order accommodation when possible
Direct line for urgent needs

Business Support:

Invoice formats for your billing
Material certifications and documentation
Project support and technical assistance
Reference letters for bidding

Account Setup Process:

Application Requirements:

Business name and registration
Social Media Account verification

Approval Timeline:

Submit application via email, phone, or in-person
Review typically within 2-3 business days
Apply today!

No Minimum Order:

Accept orders from 500 sq ft to 50,000+ sq ft
Pricing scales with volume
No annual commitment required
Order project-by-project or establish ongoing relationship

Why Landscapers Choose Greenhorizons:

Reliability:

Consistent quality across all deliveries
On-time delivery every time
Accurate quantities (no shorts or overages without notice)
Fresh-cut sod (harvested within 24 hours)

Quality:

Premium grade sod exceeds expectations
Weed-free, healthy, mature turf
Installs cleanly with minimal breakage
Establishes quickly with proper care

Service:

Responsive to your schedule
Flexible when plans change
Problem-solving approach
We understand contractor challenges

Support Your Business:

Help you bid projects accurately
Provide specs and documentation
Technical advice when needed
Make you look good to your clients

Let’s work together. Greenhorizons wants to be your reliable sod supplier—quality product, fair pricing, dependable service. Contact us today to set up your contractor account.

“What’s your minimum order quantity for delivery?”

We don’t technically have a minimum delivery order, but we recommend ordering at least 700 square feet (approximately 1 pallet) for good value. We accommodate both small residential jobs and large commercial projects with the same quality landscaper sod and service.

Delivery Coverage:

Primary Service Area:

Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Stoney Creek
Dundas, Ancaster, Waterdown, Brampton, Mississauga, Etobicoke
Cambridge, Waterloo, Kitchener
Guelph, Milton, Halton Region

Extended Service Area:

Depending on delivery size, we can accommodate many delivery locations across Southern Ontario. Contact Us Today

Pickup Option:

No minimum for pickup at our farm
Load your own truck or trailer
Forklift loading available
Save on delivery fees
Good for small repairs or additions

Scheduling Flexibility:

Standard Lead Time:

5-7 days notice for orders under 5,000 sq ft
7-10 days for larger orders
More flexibility in shoulder season (April, October)
Book early during peak season (May-June, September)

Rush Orders:

Sometimes available with 2-3 days notice
Depends on current demand and availability
Call to check. We’ll accommodate when possible

Practical Recommendations:

For Contractors Running Multiple Crews:

Order by the project, not combined
Allows flexibility if one job delays
We deliver to different sites on different days
Better than having sod sit on pallets

For Single-Crew Contractors:

Order only what you can install same day
2,000-3,000 sq ft is typical single-day installation
Don’t over-order “just in case”
Better to order additional delivery if needed

For Repair/Patch Work:

Consider pickup for very small quantities (under 700 sq ft)

Pallet Coverage:

A Greenhorizons standard pallet holds 700 sq.ft.

Maximizing Value:

Plan Projects Around Delivery:

Rotate through sites with your crew
Keep sod fresh by installing within 6 hours of delivery/pick-up at each location

Off-Season Opportunities:

Lower demand in April and October
More flexibility on scheduling
Sometimes better availability for rush orders
Great time to build relationship

Bottom Line:

Most contractors find 1,400+ sq ft delivery orders provide best value and efficiency. We’re flexible and understand the realities of landscaper sod contracting. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

“Can I schedule recurring deliveries for ongoing projects?”

Yes, Greenhorizons accommodates recurring delivery schedules for subdivision work, multi-phase projects, and contractors with continuous workflow. We’ll coordinate a delivery schedule that matches your installation pace and project timeline.

Recurring Delivery Scenarios:

Subdivision Development:

New homes completing on rolling basis
Weekly or bi-weekly deliveries
Predetermined quantities per delivery
Adjust as needed based on actual completion rates

Multi-Phase Commercial Projects:

Large commercial development over months
Deliveries timed to construction phases
Coordinate with site progress
Flexibility for weather or schedule delays

Maintenance/Installation Contractors:

Regular weekly or bi-weekly deliveries during season
Set quantity or variable based on jobs booked
“Standing order” for peak season
Easy to pause/adjust as needed

Municipal Contracts:

Season-long park development program
Scheduled deliveries to different locations
Multiple sites across municipality
Coordinated with project managers

Benefits of Scheduled Deliveries:

Guaranteed Supply:

Reserved capacity in our harvest schedule
Priority during peak demand periods
No risk of availability issues
Reliable supply chain for your projects

Workflow Efficiency:

Predictable delivery timing
Crew scheduling easier
Less time coordinating logistics
Focus on installation, not procurement

Cash Flow Management:

Order only what you install each week
No large upfront inventory investment
Better cash flow than bulk purchasing
Match revenue (completed jobs) with expenses (sod deliveries)

Quality Assurance:

Fresh sod every delivery
No on-site storage degradation
Optimal installation conditions
Better results for your clients

Planning Your Recurring Schedule:

Estimate Your Needs:

How much sod per week/month?
How many weeks/months of work?
Variable or consistent quantities?
Peak periods and slower periods?

Communicate Clearly:

Share project timeline
Explain any uncertainties
Discuss flexibility needs
Set expectations together

Build In Contingencies:

Weather delays happen
Site issues arise
Other trades cause delays
We’ll work with you

Why It Works:

For You:

Reliable supply
Predictable scheduling
Better cash flow
Less logistics hassle
Focus on installation

For Us:

Predictable production planning
Efficient harvest scheduling
Route optimization
Strong customer relationships
Mutual success

Let’s create a recurring delivery plan that keeps your projects supplied with fresh, quality sod all season long. We’ve done this for many contractors. We’ll make it work for you! Contact Us Today

“Do you provide early morning or after-hours delivery for commercial jobs?”

Yes, Greenhorizons offers morning deliveries (specify AM or PM when ordering) and can accommodate after-hours deliveries for very large commercial projects with advance notice. We understand that commercial sites often have specific access windows, traffic restrictions, or coordination requirements with other trades.

Standard Delivery Hours:

Typical: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Delivery window: Usually 2-3 hour window

Commercial Site Considerations:

Access Restrictions:

Security gates, controlled access
Provide codes, contacts, procedures
Coordinate with site management
Ensure delivery truck can enter/exit

Traffic Control:

Downtown sites with parking restrictions
Loading zones, time limits
Street closure permits (if needed)
Coordinate with municipal requirements

Multiple Trades:

Coordination with other deliveries
Sequencing (need grading complete, irrigation ready)
Staging area conflicts
Communication with site superintendent

Safety Requirements:

Hard hats, safety vests if required
Site-specific safety briefings
Insurance certificates on file
Compliance with site rules

Coordination Process:

When Booking Delivery:

Specify: “Need early morning delivery, 6 AM preferred”
Provide: Site address, access details, contact person
Explain: Why timing matters (site restrictions, crew schedule, etc.)
Confirm: Site will be accessible and ready

What We Need From You:

Site Information:

Exact delivery address and entrance location
Access codes, security procedures
Contact person name and direct phone
Any special instructions or restrictions

Timing Details:

Preferred delivery time (or window)
Latest acceptable arrival time
Why timing matters (helps us prioritize)
Flexibility if delays occur

Staging:

Where pallets should be placed
Accessibility for forklift/boom truck
Any obstacles or limitations
Firm, level surface for pallet placement

Communication:

Direct contact for delivery morning
Backup contact if primary unavailable
Site superintendent or manager contact
How to handle unexpected issues

Limitations:

We’ll Work With You, But:

Very tight windows (e.g., “exactly 6:17 AM”) difficult to guarantee
Traffic, weather, equipment issues can cause delays
Some requests may not be feasible
Honest communication about what’s achievable

Can’t Accommodate:

Delivery during active traffic lane closures without coordination
Sites truly inaccessible (too narrow, low clearance, weight restrictions)
Unreasonable timing demands
Unsafe delivery conditions

Communication is Key:

Early Discussion:

Tell us about timing needs when getting quote
We’ll assess feasibility
Suggest alternatives if needed
Set realistic expectations

Ongoing Dialogue:

Keep us informed of site condition changes
Update access or timing requirements
Notify of delays or rescheduling ASAP
Partnership approach to success

Making It Work:

Plan Ahead:

Book special timing well in advance
Don’t assume day-of changes possible
Build in contingencies
Communicate early and often

Be Flexible:

Provide delivery window rather than exact time when possible
Have backup plan if timing shifts slightly
Understand realities of traffic and logistics
Reasonable expectations

Clear Communication:

Detailed site information
Accurate timing needs
Good contact protocols
Partnership mindset

We’ll work with you to accommodate commercial site timing requirements. Most special timing requests are manageable with advance planning and clear communication. Let’s discuss your project needs. Contact Us Today

“How do you ensure consistent quality across multiple deliveries?”

We maintain quality through single-source field harvesting, standardized cutting and handling procedures, and rigorous inspection protocols at every stage. For contractors relying on us for multiple projects or recurring deliveries, consistency is non-negotiable.

Quality Control Process:

Field Selection:

All sod for multi-delivery projects harvested from same field when possible
Ensures identical grass variety, color, and maturity
Rotation planning maintains supply from consistent fields
No mixing fields within a project unless unavoidable

Harvest Standards:

Uniform cutting thickness (1-1.5 inches)
Consistent soil layer depth
Same equipment and operators
Standardized piece dimensions
Quality inspection before harvesting begins

How We Maintain Consistency:

Growing Practices:

Uniform fertility program across fields
Consistent pest and disease management
Standardized mowing and maintenance
Same seed sources and varieties
Professional agronomic management

Maturity Matching:

Sod for your project from fields at same maturity stage
18-36 months field-grown (premium grade)
No mixing young and old fields
Comparable density and root development

Seasonal Considerations:

Color naturally varies with temperature
Early season (April-May): Vibrant dark green
Summer (July-August): Lighter green under heat stress
Fall (September-October): Deep green returns
We communicate seasonal expectations

Variety Specifications:

Exact same grass blend for all deliveries
Cultivar consistency (same seed lot when possible)
No substitutions without approval

What Contractors Can Expect:

Visual Consistency:

Matching color across deliveries
Similar texture and density
Uniform appearance when installed side-by-side
Professional, cohesive finished look

Performance Consistency:

Same establishment timeline
Comparable root development
Matching growth characteristics
Uniform maintenance requirements

Handling Quality:

Sod arrives in same condition every delivery
No variation in freshness or damage
Consistent rollability and installation ease
Predictable performance

When Variations Occur:

Seasonal Color Changes:

Natural response to temperature
All sod affected similarly
Communicated in advance
Temporary (color normalizes)

Field Depletion:

If primary field exhausted mid-project
We transition to matched field
Notify you in advance
Select closest match available
Usually imperceptible difference

Weather Events:

Extreme heavy rain may delay harvest
Extreme heat affects cutting schedule
We prioritize quality over speed
Reschedule if quality compromised

Quality Guarantee:

Our Commitment:

Premium grade sod meets defined standards on every delivery
Consistency across project duration
Immediate replacement if quality fails
Standing behind our product

If You’re Not Satisfied:

Notify us at delivery
Driver documents concern
Management review
Replacement or credit issued

What We Ask From You:

Report issues immediately (day of delivery)
Specific description of problem
Photos if possible
Reasonable expectations for natural variation

What Sets Us Apart:

40+ Years Experience:

We understand consistency importance
Systems refined over decades
Professional agricultural management
Track record of reliability

Adequate Growing Capacity:

Many acres of sod in production
Multiple fields at harvest maturity simultaneously
Can dedicate field space to large projects
Never short on supply

Quality-First Culture:

No shortcuts to meet demand
We delay rather than compromise quality
Reputation built on consistency
Long-term relationships valued

Professional Communication:

Proactive updates
Honest about limitations
Problem-solving partnership
Respect for your business

Best Practices for Contractors:

Order Consistently:

Same variety and grade throughout project
Don’t switch mid-project unless necessary
Establish baseline at project start

Inspect at Delivery:

Quick visual check for color and condition
Compare to previous deliveries
Note any concerns immediately
Document with photos if needed

Install Promptly:

Same-day installation preserves quality
Minimizes on-site degradation
Ensures consistent appearance
Reduces variables

Communicate Issues:

Day-of notification for problems
Specific, factual descriptions
Give us chance to correct
Partnership problem-solving

Bottom Line:

Consistency is our commitment. We have the systems, capacity, and experience to deliver the same quality from first to last pallet. You can count on Greenhorizons for reliable, uniform sod across your entire project. That’s a promise backed by 40+ years of professional service to Ontario’s landscape industry.

Trust us with your multi-delivery projects. Contact us today to discuss your consistency requirements.

Installation & Quality

“What equipment do you recommend for professional sod installation?”

Essential equipment includes sod knives, rollers, compaction plates, and proper transportation. Professional installation requires the right tools for efficiency, quality, and crew safety. Here’s what experienced crews use and what we recommend.

Cutting and Trimming:

Sod Knife (Essential):

Purpose-built sod knives
Stay sharper longer than utility knives
Curved blade design for ergonomic cutting
Multiple per crew (have backups)
Alternative: Sharp utility knife with extra blades

Straight Edge:

4-6 foot aluminum level or straight edge
Creates precise straight cuts
Essential for edging against hardscape
Durable enough for field use

Measuring Tools:

100-foot tape measure for layout
25-foot tape for detail work
String and stakes for establishing lines
Marking paint for layout guidance

Rolling and Compaction:

Water-Filled Lawn Roller (Essential):

18-24 inch width for maneuverability
150-250 lb capacity when filled
Ensures sod-to-soil contact
Removes air pockets
Rent or purchase (worthwhile investment)

Hand Tamper/Compaction Plate:

For tight areas roller can’t reach
Around trees, beds, structures
Edges and detail work
Lightweight but effective

Grading and Preparation:

Landscape Rake:

Final grading and leveling
Removing stones and debris
Creating smooth surface
Aluminum preferred (lighter weight)

Hard Rake:

Breaking up clumps
Spreading amendments
Initial leveling work
Durability for rough work

Wheelbarrow or Garden Cart:

Transporting soil, amendments
Moving tools
Carrying cut sod pieces
Multiple may be needed for efficiency

Irrigation:

Hoses and Sprinklers:

Quality garden hoses (100+ feet per crew)
Multiple sprinkler heads
Quick-connect fittings for efficiency
Oscillating or rotary sprinklers for coverage

Irrigation Timer (Recommended):

For establishment watering schedule
Leave with homeowner if needed
Ensures consistent watering
Reduces callbacks for underwatering

Transportation and Handling:

Truck or Trailer:

Flatbed or pickup with adequate capacity
For picking up small orders
Transporting equipment
Accessing tight job sites

Pallets/Hand Truck:

Moving sod pieces efficiently
Reducing back strain
Organizing work area
Professional appearance

Safety Equipment:

Personal Protection:

Work gloves (multiple pairs per person)
Steel-toe boots
Knee pads (for extended kneeling work)
Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, water)
Safety glasses for power equipment use

Advanced/Optional Equipment:

Power Equipment:

Walk-behind sod cutter (for removals)
Tiller for soil prep
Aerator for compaction relief
These usually rented as needed

Small Tools:

Hand Tools:

Digging bar for stubborn rocks
Shovels (square and round)
Pruning saw (for roots encountered)
Hammer for stakes (slopes)

Miscellaneous:

5-gallon buckets (multiple uses)
Spray paint (marking utilities, layout)
Broom (cleanup, sweeping soil off sod)
Tarps (protecting installed areas, covering materials)

What NOT to Use:

Avoid:

Dull knives (tear sod, slow work)
Riding mowers on fresh sod (too heavy, compacts)
Metal rakes on installed sod (damages grass)
High-pressure hoses (erodes soil, shifts sod)

Purchase vs. Rental:

Worth Buying:

Sod knives and hand tools (use constantly)
Quality hoses and sprinklers (frequent use)
Rollers if doing regular sod work (payback after 5-10 jobs)
Basic safety equipment

Consider Renting:

Power tillers (not every job requires)
Large compaction equipment (infrequent need)
Specialized tools for one-off situations

Our Observations (40+ Years of Experience):

Best Crews Have:

Sharp, well-maintained tools
Sufficient equipment (not sharing one knife between 4 people)
Proper safety gear (fewer injuries)
Professional organization
Pride in their setup

Struggling Crews Often:

Use dull, inadequate tools
Rely too heavily on rental equipment
Cut corners on safety
Disorganized tool management
More fatigue and frustration

Questions About Equipment?

Tool recommendations for your crew size
Where to source quality equipment locally
What’s essential vs. optional for your work volume
Equipment tips for specific sod installation challenges

We’re here to help. Great equipment makes sod installation easier, faster, and more profitable. Invest in the right tools and your crew will thank you. Contact Us Today

“How do you handle returns or damaged sod?”

We replace damaged or defective sod at no charge when reported at delivery or same day of installation. Quality issues are rare, but when they occur, we address them immediately to keep your project on track.

Our Return/Replacement Policy:

Damage Categories:

Delivery Damage:

Torn or broken pieces from handling
Crushed pallets
Dried-out sod from delivery delays
Contamination during transport
Report to driver at delivery. Document immediately

Quality Issues:

Excessive weeds beyond specification
Disease or pest damage
Thin or bare patches
Color inconsistency or poor health
Root system inadequate
Report same day of delivery

Customer/Installation Issues:

Damage from improper storage
Deterioration from delayed installation (beyond 12 hours)
Installation errors or site preparation problems
Not eligible for replacement

Reporting Process:

At Delivery Inspection:

Inspect sod as driver offloads
Note any damaged pallets or pieces
Count pallets and verify quantity
Sign delivery ticket with notes if issues present
Driver documents and photographs

Same-Day Issues:

Call or text our dispatch immediately
Describe problem specifically
Send photos if possible
Provide delivery ticket number
We arrange replacement

Next-Day or Later:

Significantly more difficult to verify cause
May not be eligible for replacement
Document extensively if claiming quality issue
We’ll review case-by-case

What We Need:

For Replacement Claim:

Delivery date and ticket number
Specific description of problem
Photos showing issue clearly
Estimated square footage affected
Your assessment of cause

We Won’t Replace:

Normal Situations:

Seasonal color variation (summer lightening)
Establishment challenges from improper watering
Damage from site conditions (poor drainage, compaction)
Installation errors (air gaps, poor soil contact)
Storage beyond 12 hours causing deterioration
Unrealistic expectations of perfection

Customer Responsibility:

Follow installation best practices
Water properly during establishment
Report issues promptly
Reasonable expectations

Prevention – Better Than Returns:

Our Quality Control:

Pre-harvest field inspection
Post-harvest quality check
Proper handling and transport
Fresh-cut timing (within 24 hours)
Professional delivery protocols

Your Quality Control:

Inspect at delivery
Install same day
Proper site preparation
Follow establishment guidelines
Communication if concerns

Rare But Important:

Quality issues affect less than 1% of deliveries through our quality control systems. When they do occur:

We take full responsibility for our product
Fast resolution to minimize your impact
Learn from issues to prevent recurrence
Stand behind our reputation

Contractor Relationships:

We Value Your Business:

Fair, honest handling of issues
Benefit of doubt to good customers
Quick resolution keeps your project moving
Partnership approach

Abuse of Policy:

Claiming damage for improper storage
Reporting issues days/weeks later
Unrealistic or false claims
May jeopardize account relationship

Best Practices to Avoid Returns:

Order Correctly:

Accurate square footage calculation
Appropriate variety for site
Proper grade selection
Realistic delivery timing

Handle Properly:

Inspect at delivery
Store in shade if any delay
Keep moist but not soaked
Install within 24 hours

Install Correctly:

Prepared site ready
Proper technique and equipment
Good soil contact
Immediate watering

Communicate Early:

Questions before ordering
Concerns at delivery
Issues same day
Partnership communication

What Makes Us Different:

40+ Years Reputation:

We stand behind our product
Fair treatment of contractors
Quick problem resolution
Relationships matter more than single transaction

Quality First:

We don’t send bad sod
If it leaves our farm, it’s quality
Occasional damage happens
We make it right

Contractor Focus:

Understand your time pressures
Respect your client commitments
Keep your projects moving
Support your success

Bottom Line:

We want every delivery to be perfect. When it’s not, we fix it fast. Report issues immediately, communicate clearly, and we’ll ensure your project succeeds.

Questions about our quality guarantee? Contact us anytime. We’re here to support your professional success.

“Can you provide same-day or next-day delivery for emergency projects?”

Yes, same-day and next-day deliveries are often possible depending on current demand, time of request, and delivery location. We understand that landscape contracting involves unexpected situations. Call us as early as possible and we’ll do everything we can to accommodate emergency needs.

Same-Day Delivery:

Possible When:

Request received before 10:00 AM
Quantity available (under 5,000 sq ft most reliable)
Location within primary service area
Current delivery schedule has capacity
Weather permits harvesting

Typical Scenarios:

Site prep completed ahead of schedule
Previous sod delivery failed
Client demands immediate completion
Weather window closing
Last-minute project approval

Requirements:

Call by 9:00-10:00 AM
Flexible delivery window (we fit you in route)
Site ready for immediate delivery
Payment ready (credit card or established account)
Contact person available at site

Limitations:

Not guaranteed (depends on availability)
Rush fee may apply during peak season
Limited to smaller quantities
May not be possible in peak demand periods (May-June)

Next-Day Delivery:

Much More Reliable:

Request by end of business day prior
Quantity up to 15,000 sq ft usually available
Full service area coverage
Scheduled into next day’s harvest
Better timing coordination

Standard Process:

Call or email by 4:00 PM
Confirm quantity and location
Schedule harvest for next morning
Delivery by specified window next day
No rush fee for next-day (depends on season)

Best For:

Short-notice project awards
Weather-related rescheduling
Site condition delays resolved
Typical contractor flexibility needs

Success Factors:

Increases Likelihood:

Early morning request
Established customer relationship
Reasonable quantity (under 5,000 sq ft)
Flexible on delivery timing window
Primary service area location
Off-peak season (April, July, October)

Decreases Likelihood:

Late afternoon request for same day
Very large quantity
Peak season high demand (May-June)
Distant location requiring long delivery
Inflexible timing requirements
First-time customer

What We Can’t Do:

Impossible Situations:

Request at 3:00 PM for delivery today
Quantity exceeding daily harvest capacity
Delivery location a long distance away same-day
Ground too wet to harvest (quality compromise)
Already committed capacity for day

We’ll Be Honest:

If it’s truly impossible, we’ll say so
Suggest realistic alternatives
Don’t promise what we can’t deliver
Protect our reputation and yours

Communication Is Critical:

Set Expectations:

“Can you do same-day?” – We’ll check and answer honestly
“What’s realistic timing?” – We’ll tell you
“What do you need from me?” – We’ll specify

Stay In Touch:

Confirm delivery timing morning of
Update if site issues arise
Keep phone accessible
Professional courtesy

Building Trust:

We accommodate when possible
Remember who helps us with flexibility
Reciprocal relationship
Long-term partnership

Best Practices for Contractors:

Anticipate Needs:

Don’t wait until last minute if avoidable
Book ahead when possible
Build delivery time into schedule
Avoid depending on rush delivery

Know Your Options:

Established relationship with us
Backup supplier contact
Pickup option for small quantities
Realistic contingency planning

Communicate Early:

As soon as you know you need rush delivery
Don’t wait until crisis
More notice = better options
Partnership approach

Bottom Line:

Same-day and next-day deliveries are part of how we support contractors. We can’t always accommodate, but we try hard when you’re in a bind. Call early, communicate clearly, and we’ll do everything possible to keep your project moving.

We’re here when you need us. Contact Us Today

“Do you offer training or installation support for new crew members?”

Yes, we provide installation guidance, best practice documentation, and support for contractors training new crews. Proper installation is critical to sod success. We want your team to be equipped with knowledge for quality results.

Training Resources Available:

Installation Guide:

Comprehensive written guide
Step-by-step instructions
Photos and diagrams
Common mistakes to avoid
Troubleshooting tips
Available as PDF or printed copy

Video Resources:

Installation demonstration videos
Rolling and watering procedures
Available on our website

Common Mistakes We Help Avoid:

Installation Errors:

Gaps between pieces (shrinkage and poor appearance)
Overlapping edges (creates bumps, difficult to mow)
Poor soil contact (air pockets, establishment failure)
Installing on rough grade (uneven finished surface)
Insufficient rolling (poor rooting)

Timing Mistakes:

Delaying installation beyond 24 hours post-harvest
Insufficient watering immediately after
Rolling when sod too wet or dry
Installing on frozen or waterlogged ground

Crew Safety:

Improper lifting (back injuries)
Dehydration during summer
Heat exhaustion risk
Repetitive stress injuries

Homeowner Communication:

What Crew Should Tell Client:

Watering schedule (critical first 2 weeks)
When they can walk on sod
First mowing timing and height
Normal establishment expectations
Emergency contact if issues

Quality Checkpoints:

Self-Inspection Points:

Tight seams, no gaps or overlaps
Smooth, even surface
Good soil contact throughout
Clean edges against hardscape/beds
Proper watering immediately completed

When to Call Us:

Uncertain about technique
Encountering unexpected site conditions
Quality doesn’t look right
Equipment issues
Any concerns before client sees work

Getting Training Support:

New Contractors:

Mention you’re new to sod when ordering
Request installation materials
Ask about support for first project
We’ll schedule appropriately

Adding Crew Members:

Let us know you have new people
We’ll provide updated materials
Extra support available
Set them up for success

Specific Challenges:

Describe the difficult installation scenario
We’ll advise on approach
Problem-solve together

Investment in Your Success:

Training your crew costs us time and resources, but it’s worthwhile. Better installation means better results, happier clients, more referrals, and ongoing business for both of us.

We’re committed to your success. Whether you’re a solo operator hiring your first helper or an established company training seasonal crews, we’ll provide the support you need for quality sod installation.

Let us help your team succeed. Contact Us Today

Quality & Performance

“What’s your policy on sod storage and quality if installation is delayed?”

Sod must be installed within 6 hours of delivery in warm weather and within 12 hours in cool weather to maintain quality. Delays beyond this compromise sod health, establishment success, and our ability to guarantee performance.

Our Perspective: We can’t guarantee sod quality if it sits on pallets beyond freshness window. Heat, stress, and time degrade living grass. No supplier can warranty delayed installation.

Proper Storage (If Delay Unavoidable):

Essential Steps:

Place pallets in full shade immediately
Space pallets apart for air circulation
In extreme heat, break pallets down to reduce overheating potential
Install within 12 hours maximum
Monitor for heat buildup and deterioration

Rescheduling Delivery:

Better Option: If installation delay is known in advance, reschedule delivery rather than storing sod.

How to Reschedule:

Call as soon as delay is known
Explain reason and new timing
We adjust harvest schedule
New delivery date confirmed
Fresh sod delivered when you’re ready

Quality Decline Signs:

Watch For:

Yellowing grass (especially pallet centers)
Heat when touching pallet (decomposition)
Sour, ammonia smell
Slimy texture
Brown patches
Grass easily pulls from soil

If You See These:

Install immediately despite issues
Better than waiting longer
Results will be compromised
May need replacement areas

Project Planning to Avoid Delays:

Site Prep First:

Complete all grading and soil work before ordering
Don’t order until site ready
Have crew and equipment scheduled
Weather forecast checked

Crew Availability:

Confirm crew before ordering delivery
Have backup plan if crew calls in sick
Adequate crew size for same-day completion
Tools and equipment ready

Weather Contingency:

Check 5-day forecast before ordering
Have alternate install date if rain likely
Reschedule delivery if storm coming
Don’t gamble on weather

Coordination:

Irrigation functional before sod arrives
Other trades completed or working around you
Client aware of installation timing
Site access confirmed

Financial Considerations:

Delayed Installation Costs You:

Deteriorated sod may not establish
Replacement areas needed
Client dissatisfaction
Callbacks and warranty work
Reputation damage

Prevention Saves:

Plan properly for same-day installation
Reschedule delivery if needed
Small scheduling fee beats replacement cost
Protect your profit and reputation

Best Practices:

Order Timing:

Delivery on installation day
Early morning delivery preferred
Crew starts immediately
Complete same day

Backup Plans:

Alternate date ready
Emergency crew contact
Equipment rental reserved
Flexibility built in

Communication:

Update us on any changes ASAP
Don’t assume delays are fine
Ask questions if uncertain
Partnership communication

Bottom Line:

Sod is a living product with limited shelf life. Install within 24 hours post-install for best results. If delays are unavoidable, communicate early, store properly, and understand quality limitations.

When in doubt, reschedule delivery. Fresh sod installs better, establishes faster, and makes everyone happier.

Questions about storage or delayed installation? Call us immediately. We’ll help you make the right decision for your project. Contact Us Today