The answer to 'sod vs seed' is that sod and seed are both effective ways to establish a new lawn, but they have different benefits, costs, and use cases. Sod is pre-grown grass that is harvested and installed as rolls or sheets, providing an instant green lawn. Seed, on the other hand, involves planting grass seed directly into the soil, which takes time to germinate and grow into a full lawn.
Sod offers faster results, as the lawn can be used within a few weeks of installation. It's a good choice for impatient homeowners or areas that need immediate lawn coverage, such as for an event. However, sod is generally more expensive upfront. Seeding a lawn is a more budget-friendly option, but it requires more time and effort to establish, typically taking 4-8 weeks to grow in. Seeding is a better choice for homeowners with more time and a smaller budget.