Using custom spreaders we apply an even layer of specialty organic soil over the lawn. This superior quality, 100% natural, chemical free, weed free, biologically diverse product improves soil structure and porosity to create a better root environment, promotes a more consistent grass color and replenishes the activity of beneficial  soil microbes. Standard application rate is ¼” layer. A double pass option is available at a rate of approximately 1/2” layer. This will build healthier soil and microbes but is not a substitute for leveling.

Standing water, uneven/bumpy areas, ruts, bare spots, weak or poor grass growth are all indications that your lawn will benefit from leveling and/or top dressing.

The lawn should be mowed, preferably to 1” maximum height. The lawn should be clear of leaves, debris, and other obstacles that would impede our crew and equipment from evenly and smoothly performing the services. Irrigation systems should be turned off. Sprinkler heads, valve boxes, cable/electrical/plumbing/other underground lines should be clearly marked with flags. Let us know if you have question or assistance. Then the magic starts.

Yes, you can top dress and overseed at the same time, and it’s often highly beneficial, especially for improving turf quality and uneven areas. Combining core aeration with topdressing and overseeding will provide optimal results (See Should I core aerate my lawn?). Germination and establishment usually takes 2-4 weeks with light frequent watering, 2-3 times daily for 7-10 days, followed by less frequent deeper watering. Begin mowing when the grass is approximately 3” high. Start mowing at a height of 1.5”- 2”.

Core aeration is especially helpful in clay heavy soils like those in North Texas. Core aeration benefits in any soil include; loosening compacted soil, improves air/water/nutrient flow, increases seed to soil contact, combined with top dressing is crucial for overseeding.

Late spring into hot summer temperatures and early fall are ideal times for lawn leveling and top dressing. Soil temperatures above 65 degrees promotes grass grow and a faster recover. Winter can be a great time to top dress as well, this allows time for the material to activate into the soil.

Most residential lawns can be completed a few hours to a day depending on the size and condition of the lawn. Larger and more difficult lawns, fields and terrain can take longer.

1. Mowing

The lawn should be mowed as short as possible, 1” maximum height, to expose the uneven areas, proper leveling of low areas and .insure optimal results.  Note:  Dethatching is recommended only rare cases when extremely heavy thatch is present, where mowing and raking will not remove the thatch.

2. Evaluate

Identify low spots, high areas and uneven areas. Mark areas with paint or flags. Though not necessary, it may be helpful to take pictures after heavy rain to identify low/problem areas where water accumulates.

3. Watering

Water the lawn the day before leveling to soften the soil.  Do not over water making it soggy or after heavy rainfall.

4. Fertilizing

Depending on the leveling material selected it can be helpful to kick start your lawn to apply a high nitrogen fertilizer a day or two before leveling is scheduled.

5: Leveling

When we arrive to level your lawn our crew begin spreading material focusing first on low spots and problem areas, then the remaining agreed areas to be leveled. Using industry accepted and custom tools we will then complete the leveling process.

6: Post-Leveling Maintenance

Irrigation. Water twice daily (light, shallow watering) for the first 1-2 weeks or until you see good growth. Then resume your normal watering schedule.  Avoid heavy foot or other traffic for a few weeks. Resume mowing when grass reached 2-3 inches. Once mowing resumes more frequent mowing, every 4-5 days, will promote root and horizontal growth. Fertilize lightly after 2-3 weeks with a high nitrogen fertilizer.

This primarily depends on the condition of your lawn. If your lawn is in fair to good condition, we recommend a 80/20 blend of high-quality sand and specialty top dressing compost or high-quality sand.   If you lawn has never been leveled, has significant unevenness, low areas or rough terrain, first time leveling may require screened top soil or sandy loam. While we try to source the highest quality material, using top soil and/or sandy loam will likely come with some small “clumps” of material. These clumps are minimized by the use of our industry leading equipment which reduces the likelihood of the clumps. Any remaining clumps typically breakdown after several watering.