If you're ready to install a lawn, the first decision you will have to make is whether or not it will be of seed or sod. Both have very distinct advantages and disadvantages - so how can you begin to decide upon one? What do you need to know as a buyer?
First off, seed is a popular choice because it's the cheapest - at least in the short-term. As well, it's easy and fast to install. A sod lawn, on the other hand, takes more time to install and is also more expensive. Why is this?
A sod lawn is more of a ready-to-go product that you can rely upon the future. A seed lawn is more of a natural environment that must be fostered (in fact, right after installation is still not quite usable) and it will require a lot of maintenance down the road - as it is vulnerable to erosion (at least in the early stages) and weed growth. Still, seeding doesn't cost a lot to do and can be done in just about every climate. In other words, even if you are installing a lawn in a shaded area, you can use seed. This is not the case with sod.
Sod lawns are preferable because even though the installation process is more expensive and time-consuming, they are ready to use once installation is completed and you won't have to worry about erosion or weeds. But if your budget is limited or you are trying to manage a difficult environment, sod will not even be an option. However, don't worry - seeding is still a viable choice and as long as you take care of your lawn, you and your grass will be in good shape.