Sod Installation Company: How to Prepare Your Yard for Them

If you're planning to hire a sod installation company in St. Louis, MO, you're already on the right path to transforming your yard into a lush, green oasis. But before the team shows up with fresh rolls of sod, your yard needs to be properly prepared to ensure long-term success. From testing your soil to fine-tuning your irrigation, preparing your yard is a crucial step that can make or break your sod investment. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential pre-installation steps every homeowner should follow. While companies like Midwest Turf can help guide you through—or completely handle—this process, knowing what goes into proper prep will give you confidence and peace of mind.

Why Preparation Matters Before Sod Installation



Laying sod might seem like a simple process, but there’s a lot more to it than rolling out green carpets of grass. Before a sod installation company arrives at your doorstep, your soil must be ready to nurture and sustain that fresh turf. Proper preparation not only speeds up root establishment but also helps avoid common problems like poor drainage, uneven growth, and weed invasion. Skipping this step or doing it incorrectly could shorten the life of your sod and lead to costly repairs down the line.

Key Steps to Get Your Lawn Ready for Sod Installation

Step 1: Conduct Soil Testing

The foundation of a healthy lawn is healthy soil. Before laying sod, one of the first things a sod installation company will often recommend is a soil test. This identifies pH levels and nutrient deficiencies that could affect your new turf’s growth. Soil in the St. Louis region tends to be clay-heavy, which may require amendments like sand, compost, or lime to optimize its structure.



Step 2: Remove Existing Weeds and Grass

If there’s one thing that can quickly ruin a fresh sod install, it’s competition from weeds and leftover grass. Before installation day, the entire area should be cleared of all vegetation. This typically involves applying a non-selective herbicide, followed by physically removing the dead grass and roots. A thorough weed removal not only provides a clean surface but also prevents old plant material from competing for nutrients and water once the sod is installed.

A professional sod installation company will often offer full-service removal or give you precise guidance on how to handle this part yourself for optimal results.

Step 3: Grade the Surface

Proper grading ensures good drainage, prevents standing water, and promotes even root growth. Before sod is installed, the yard should be leveled and slightly sloped away from buildings and structures. High and low spots need to be smoothed out using a rake or mechanical grader.

If the area isn’t graded properly, you could end up with pooling water or runoff that damages your new lawn. That’s why a trusted sod installation company in St. Louis, MO, will take the time to ensure your yard is perfectly contoured for performance and appearance.

Step 4: Evaluate and Adjust Irrigation Systems

Before your new sod arrives, you’ll want to make sure your irrigation system is in top working order. A sod installation company will usually require a functioning sprinkler system to keep the sod hydrated during its critical rooting phase.

Check for clogged nozzles, misaligned sprinkler heads, or broken pipes that could lead to dry patches or overwatering. If you don’t yet have a sprinkler system, now is a great time to install one. 

Step 5: Final Soil Preparation

After grading and irrigation checks, the next step is final soil preparation. This includes tilling the soil to a depth of 4–6 inches, incorporating any recommended soil amendments, and raking the area smooth. Some sod installation companies in St. Louis, MO, also recommend lightly compacting the soil to create a firm surface without crushing air pockets.

This sets the stage for seamless sod-to-soil contact, which is essential for fast root establishment. The better the contact, the less risk you have of sod drying out, shifting, or developing gaps.

Let the Professionals Handle It: Midwest Turf’s Role in Yard Prep



While it’s possible to do some of the prep work yourself, hiring a professional sod installation company in St. Louis, MO, like Midwest Turf, can save you time and stress. Their team can manage everything from initial soil testing to grading and irrigation inspection, ensuring every detail is handled with expert care. Whether you're looking for full-service installation or guidance through the preparation process, Midwest Turf brings years of experience and local expertise to your yard transformation.

Get Ready for a Greener Tomorrow

Preparing your yard before sod installation isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a necessity for long-lasting results. From soil testing and weed removal to grading and irrigation, each step plays a critical role in the health of your new lawn. By partnering with a professional sod installation company in St. Louis, MO, you’ll get expert advice, streamlined service, and peace of mind knowing the job is done right. Contact Midwest Turf today and let their team help you build the lush, vibrant lawn you’ve always wanted.