We are having heated debates in our family regarding putting in sod or seeding our new lawn after a renovation in NJ. We don't want chemicals (little kids) so the sod has the advantage of already being clean after whatever chemicals were applied. On the other hand, it is SO much more expensive!!! Are there better quality seeds that we could get that would grow well and have less weeds so we wouldn't need to apply as many chemicals?
Having looked on the internet, some people suggest that the decision should be based on one's climate. What would you recommend for New Jersey? We are in northern NJ.
What do we need to consider in making the decision to sod vs. seed?

Thank you so much for your feedback!

As for chemicals, it sounds like you are worried about weed control chemicals. The good news is if you establish a healthy lawn, weeds should not be an issue. Strong grass mowed high will crowd out weeds.

Why would you need chemicals for seed? ...and not for sod?? Why use chemicals for either one? Visit the GardenWeb Organic Gardening forum, find the FAQs, and read the last one on Organic Lawn Care. In it I present a modern approach to organics that pretty much excludes the expensive approach from the 40s. I don't see any reason to use chemicals of any kind at any time...unless you want fast results for a horrible weed problem like creeping charlie or a very few others.

If you want to have an incredible lawn (some people do), then wait and do some research on the Elite varieties of Kentucky bluegrass for your area. You will have to suffer through the summer, though. Or you can mix Kentucky bluegrass with fescue seed for a lawn with benefits from both types of grass.

If you don't want to wait, then sod is your only choice. If you sod, be sure to get the exact variety of grasses in the sod. You will need them if you ever have to reseed or overseed.

Thanks again!