Turfgrass sod can be installed year-round, even on frozen ground, if sod is available; however, sodding during the heat of summer will require more water than during cooler periods. Seeding or sprigging is best attempted in the Fall in most areas, with Spring being the second best time. Winter and Summer planting of seed or sprigs is strongly discouraged

Sodding is quite easy - the basics are to keep the green side up.   Check with your local nursery for special tactics.

Seed is cheaper than sod but that is the case between any raw and finished product.   Sod is already grown and you don't need to wait to see what the grass looks like.   As well, there is money that needs to be put into extra water, fertilizers, pesticides and your time to care for the seeding.

Choosing "good" sod is like choosing any other plant.  Look for moist soil and dark green and cool to the touch blades.  If it looks and feels healthy, it probably is.  To test the sod's strength, hold a piece overhead by its narrow end.   If it doesn't tear or fall apart, it's alright. Checking for uniformity of texture, mowing height and overall quality is best be determined by placing several pieces on the ground and looking for extreme variations or visible weeds.