Short answer: sod gives you a finished lawn in a day and is the better choice for slopes, new builds and anyone who wants to use the yard this season. Seed costs much less but takes a full season to fill in, and does best when sown in late summer to early fall. In the GTA, installed sod typically costs $2–$4 per sq ft including prep.
Side by side
| Sod | Seed | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (installed, GTA) | $2–$4 / sq ft | Much lower; mostly prep and seed |
| Usable lawn | About 2–3 weeks | Often a full season |
| Weed resistance at start | High, dense from day one | Low until it thickens |
| Slopes and erosion | Holds soil immediately | Seed can wash out in heavy rain |
| Best timing | Spring through fall, with watering | Late August to September |
Prep matters more than the choice
Sod and seed both fail on bad prep. Remove the old turf, grade the ground so water drains away from the house, and spread screened topsoil before anything goes down. A low spot under new sod will still be a puddle next spring.
When sod is the better choice
- New builds and big renovations where the yard is bare soil.
- Slopes where rain would wash seed away.
- When you want to use the yard soon, or are selling the house.
When seed makes sense
- Thin but established lawns that need overseeding.
- Large areas on a tight budget, with time to wait.
- Shady spots where you want a specific shade-tolerant mix.
First 30 days with new sod
Water daily for the first one to two weeks so the soil underneath stays moist, then taper off as roots grip. Keep foot traffic light, and make the first cut when the grass is about 3–4 inches tall, taking off no more than a third of the height.
FAQ
Can you lay sod in summer?
Yes, as long as it's watered well. Spring and fall are easier because there's less heat stress.
How long before I can walk on new sod?
Keep traffic light for about two weeks, until a corner won't lift when gently tugged.