Landscaping

Typically, it takes about two to three weeks for sod to fully root into the soil. In this time, you’ll need to water it deeply and regularly to keep the roots moist but not soggy. After those initial few weeks, you can gradually reduce watering frequency as the roots establish themselves. Factors like the type of grass, soil conditions, and weather can slightly influence this timeline.

Yes, even a 3-foot retaining wall needs drainage. Water pressure can build up behind any wall, causing it to bulge or even fail over time. A proper drainage system includes a layer of gravel behind the wall, a perforated drain pipe along the base, and weep holes in the wall face to allow water to escape. This reduces pressure and prevents the soil behind the wall from becoming saturated.

Retaining walls are expensive for several reasons. First, constructing a stable wall requires careful engineering and skilled labor. Second, materials like concrete blocks, natural stone, or treated lumber can be costly. Third, excavating the site, preparing a strong base, and installing the drainage system all add to labor costs. Finally, if the wall is tall or holds back a significant amount of earth, additional engineering and reinforcement may be needed, further increasing the price.

Dethatching is the process of removing excess thatch, the layer of dead grass stems and roots that builds up between the soil and your green grass blades. The best time to dethatch depends on your grass type. For cool-season grasses (like Kentucky bluegrass), dethatch in early fall or early spring. Warm-season grasses (like Bermuda grass) should be dethatched in late spring or early summer when they’re активно growing. Dethatch only if your thatch layer is thicker than half an inch, as excessive dethatching can damage your lawn.