Factor

Sod

Seed

Immediate visual impact

Mature landscape

Rough texture and open soil

Uniformity of coverage

99–100% coverage

Spottiness may occur due to seed variety, germination time, erosion, traffic, birds, and rodents

Installation cost

Higher cost

Lower cost

Cost vs. value

Higher installation cost offset by immediate uniformity, visual appeal, and reduced maintenance and water costs

Higher management and maintenance costs associated with more frequent chemical treatments and watering

Time of year to install

Year-round, even if ground is frozen

Best in fall; possible in spring

Seed quality

Typically, highest available quality

Variable due to germination rates, weed and foreign matter, and unknown or unspecified varieties 

Water requirements

Lower needs; initial watering to 6" depth followed by 2–3 weeks of light watering

Higher needs; water lightly for 3–4 weeks

Weed control

Needs minimal, if any, chemical control

Usually needs multiple chemical applications

Runoff/erosion

Can handle heavy rains without erosion or damage

Heavy rains cause runoff and erosion

Usability

Light traffic OK immediately; normal traffic within 2–3 weeks

Light traffic OK 2–4 months after seeding; normal traffic after 1 year