How Long After Laying Sod Can You Walk on it?

It can be tempting to want to walk on your fresh sod as soon as you lay it down. After all, it’s a new lawn, and you’re excited to see it! However, there are a few things you need to know about walking on sod after laying it.

Many people make the mistake of thinking they can walk on it right away, but this can damage the grass and cause problems with its growth.


Is It Okay To Walk On Freshly Laid Sod?

how long after laying sod can you walk on it

Once your sod is laid, you may be tempted to walk on it to admire your handiwork. However, resisting the urge is essential, as walking on sod can damage the delicate root system.

Instead, wait until the sod has a chance to establish itself before fully walking or playing on it. Once the roots have taken hold, the sod will be better able to withstand foot traffic.

In the meantime, you can enjoy your lawn from a distance and take comfort in knowing that you’ve given your new grass a strong start.


How Long After Laying Sod Can You Walk On It?

how long after laying sod can you walk on it

After you’ve laid down your new sod, you’re probably eager to start enjoying your lawn. But before you let the kids loose or start planning a picnic, giving the sod time to roots is essential. Walking on newly laid sod can damage the delicate grass blades and prevent the sod from taking root.

As a general rule, you should wait at least two weeks before walking on your new sod. During this time, the sod will continue to settle, and the roots will continue to grow. Once the roots have had a chance to take hold, the sod will be better able to withstand foot traffic.


How To Check If Sod Has Taken Hold

Sod installation is a great way to achieve a beautiful, professional lawn without all the work and time of seeding and growing grass from scratch. However, ensuring that the sod has taken hold is vital before allowing foot traffic or heavy lawn furniture. Here are a few tips for checking whether your sod has taken root: 

First, look at the color of the sod. If it is still green and lush, this is a good sign that the roots have taken hold. Once the sod starts to brown and dry out, it is beginning to die and will not be as effective at holding onto the soil. 

Another way to check whether sod has taken root is to lift it from the ground. If it comes up easily, the roots have not yet had a chance to take hold and establish themselves. On the other hand, if the sod resists being pulled up or tears easily, it has successfully rooted itself into the ground and is ready for foot traffic. 

Finally, you can also check for signs of new growth. If you see new blades of grass popping up through the sod, this is a good sign that it has taken root and is beginning to establish itself. Once you see these signs, you can feel confident that your sod is ready for foot traffic.


Can My Pets Start Walking On New Sod?

how long after laying sod can you walk on it

If you’re like many pet owners, your four-legged friend is part of the family, and you want them to be able to enjoy your new lawn as much as you do. So, can they start walking on new sod right away? Or should you keep your dog off new sod

Unfortunately, the answer is no. Just like people, pets can damage newly laid sod before it has had a chance to take root. Walking on sod can damage the delicate grass blades and prevent the sod from taking root.


How long after laying sod can you walk on it: Final Thoughts

Now that you know how long after laying sod, you can walk on it, be patient. Rushing the process could result in damaging your new lawn. Once your sod is laid, take the proper precautions to ensure a healthy green lawn for years to come.

Related Article: Can You Put Sod Over Grass?