Hydroseed has several benefits compared to sod or broadcast seeding. First and foremost is cost. Hydroseed (in most cases) runs 60-80% cheaper than sod. Second, Hydroseed in most cases will develop a healther root system than sod. Also Hydroseed has a brilliant new lawn color that looks fantastic. Hydroseed (depending on several factors such as weather, soil quality, sprinkler system quality, etc.) is usually ready for day to day use around 6-8 weeks. Sod is usually ready for day to day use around the 3-4 weeks. One month of patience will save potential Hydroseed clients 60-80%. Seeding by hand is a great option however there are some risks. First, most homeowners lack the experience to understand the difference between the thousands of different seed types available. Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue, Wheatgrass, etc. these are just a few different types of seed common in Utah and Idaho. Each of these categories contain numerous different varieities of bluegrass, ryegrass, fescue, etc. This means thousands of options. It takes a true expert to know how to blend these different seeds depending on the situation. Also Hydralawn guarantees our hydroseed will germinate and be successful IF our instructions are followed exactly. You will receive no such guarantee with a do it yourself project.