Good timing. After 5 years, I am finally going to start over on the front side lawn area. Last year we did the back, but the front needs fresh loam and seed. Here are my ideas/options:
1. Bring in 4" loam and hand seed with high quality KBG. On the slopes, use straw netting to prevent washoff. Spread straw elsewhere. The only issue is we get a lot of wind in the Spring and the straw may easily blow away
2. Bring in 4" loam then hydroseed. Still use straw netting on slopes.
I'm a bit torn on which option to go with . #2 is more costly and the grass seed quality is not as good, but it's more likely to stay in place and retain moisture during germination. I also thought about ripping all existing sod out, but was told that wasn't necessary.