Not all sod is created the same. It is that time of year where I am asked to estimate sod quite frequently. I honestly feel like I should apologize every time I attach one of these documents to an e-mail. The cost is painful. Here are a few reasons why. 1. Most sod looks good for a while, but the long-term health of your sod is largely dependent on what you have under it. There is a good chance that your last batch of grass died because your soil was in poor condition. Does it make sense to skim the old and lay down new sod on the junky soil? No. Make sure your contractor adds a mixture of topsoil and compost before installation. 2. Good sod has been growing for a long time.  We use Summit Hall Tall Fescue and Blue Grass. Summit Hall is more expensive than Chantilly because they do not grow on mesh, and they grow their sod for a full 18 months before cutting it. Time translates into cost, but it also translates into better sod. If you are comparing two estimates, ask your contractor to note where they will be buying the sod. Sadly, there are contractors who will charge you $500 for a pallet of sod from Merrifield but will go pick it up from a cheaper farm. Be a smart consumer. Let them know you would like to see the date of the receipt.