Low spots and settlement
Removing the failed lawn exposes the soil so elevations can be cut, filled and transitioned without burying an unstable organic layer.
Read the property before replacing the lawn
The grass may be failing because the site underneath it is failing
Thin turf, standing water and uneven mowing are visible symptoms. The cause may be settlement, compacted soil, poor drainage, inadequate sunlight, irrigation gaps or a finished grade that conflicts with concrete and foundation elevations.
Sprinkler heads below grade
Heads may need to be raised, lowered, relocated or changed so the irrigation system matches the corrected lawn elevation and reaches the new sod.
Water held near structures
Surface grading can improve flow when adequate fall and a suitable outlet exist. Constrained sites may also require a separate drainage system.
Shade and weak coverage
Sod selection and irrigation planning should reflect sun exposure, tree canopy, root competition and the actual coverage available in each lawn area.
Grading, water delivery and finished surface
Three systems must agree at the same elevation
Shape the soil
Rough grading establishes the larger slope. Hand grading refines transitions at patios, walkways, borders, drains and foundations while preparing an even sod bed.
Match the new elevation
Known heads and lines are identified before work. Necessary repairs, extensions and head adjustments are completed before the sod closes the surface.
Install the finish surface
Prepared soil, tight seams, clean edge transitions and immediate watering provide the correct starting conditions for St. Augustine, Zoysia or another appropriate sod selection.
Work below and above the finished lawn
A complete lawn construction sequence
Six project views showing grading, irrigation preparation and completed lawn surfaces. Every card uses the same frame and alignment on desktop.
Field sequence
Complete underground and elevation work before laying sod
Evaluate the site
Review access, grade, drainage path, concrete elevations, sunlight and irrigation.
Remove and reshape
Remove unsuitable material, redistribute soil and establish the planned elevations.
Correct irrigation
Repair or reposition necessary components and verify coverage before sod.
Finish grade
Hand grade the surface, refine edges and prepare consistent soil contact.
Install and test
Lay the sod, complete edges, test irrigation and provide initial watering guidance.
Related construction services
Coordinate only the systems the lawn requires
Some properties need only lawn removal, soil preparation and sod. Others require elevation correction, irrigation work or drainage before the new surface is installed.
Houston Heights lawn questions
What to determine before installing new sod
Can new sod level an uneven yard?
No. Sod follows the surface beneath it. Low spots and poor transitions must be corrected in the soil before installation.
Will grading solve every drainage condition?
No. Grading works when sufficient elevation and a suitable flow path exist. Flat or enclosed areas may need drainage inlets and conveyance pipe.
What happens to the sprinkler heads during grading?
Known heads are reviewed and may be raised, lowered, relocated or adjusted to match the new elevation and provide appropriate coverage.
Which sod varieties are available?
St. Augustine and Zoysia are common options. The appropriate selection depends on sunlight, irrigation, use and the conditions of the property.
Is the new sod guaranteed?
Sod is perishable and is not warranted after installation. Establishment depends on immediate watering, irrigation performance, weather and ongoing care.
Do you work outside Houston Heights?
Yes. PLS Landscaping serves Houston Heights and nearby Houston communities. Availability depends on the project scope, access and onsite conditions.
