Sod calculator
Calculate the number of sod rolls or pieces needed for a lawn installation.
Sod calculator
Calculate the number of sod rolls or pieces needed for a lawn installation.
Enter your lawn dimensions to see the sod estimate.
Pieces needed
Project summary
How it works
These are estimates for planning. Actual sod requirements depend on the shape of the area, cutting waste and the sod supplier's piece size.
Sod calculator
Measure the actual area, not the lot
The lawn area is usually smaller than the lot because of the house, driveway, walkways and planting beds. Subtract those from the total. If the lawn is an irregular shape, break it into rectangles and measure each one. For curved edges, measure the longest and shortest dimensions and use the average. The calculator supports multiple sections so you can add each piece of the lawn separately.
Sod comes in pieces, not continuous sheets
Most sod is sold as rolls or slabs, typically 2 feet by 5 feet (10 square feet) or 1 foot by 2 feet (2 square feet). The piece size matters because it affects the count and the cutting at edges. Standard rolls are easier to lay on large areas. Smaller pieces are easier to handle and fit better around curves. The calculator lets you enter your supplier's piece dimensions.
Pallets are the practical unit for ordering
Sod is delivered on pallets, and a standard pallet covers about 450 to 500 square feet depending on the grower and how tightly the rolls are stacked. Ordering by the pallet is simpler than counting individual pieces, and most suppliers price by the pallet. The calculator converts your square footage to pallets using the coverage per pallet you enter.
Frequently asked questions
How much sod do I need for a 1000 square foot lawn?
You need about 100 standard rolls (2x5 feet) before waste. With a 5 percent waste allowance, buy about 105 rolls. That is roughly 2.2 to 2.5 pallets depending on how many pieces your supplier stacks per pallet. Enter your own piece dimensions and pallet coverage above.
How much does a pallet of sod cover?
A standard pallet covers about 450 to 500 square feet, though this varies by grower and how tightly the rolls are packed. Some pallets carry 50 square yards (450 square feet) and others carry up to 70 square yards (630 square feet). Ask your supplier for their specific pallet coverage.
How many rolls of sod do I need for 500 square feet?
Standard sod rolls cover about 9 square feet each. For 500 square feet, you need about 56 rolls. The calculator gives you the exact count based on your area and roll size.
How much does sod cost per square foot?
Sod costs 0.30 to 0.80 dollars per square foot installed. DIY sod costs less but requires preparation. The calculator gives you the square footage for pricing.
How long before sod roots in?
Sod begins to root in 7 to 14 days if kept moist. Full establishment takes 6 to 8 weeks. Water lightly and frequently during the first two weeks. The calculator helps you plan the area so you can schedule watering.
What type of sod is best for my area?
Grass type depends on your climate. Cool season grasses like fescue and bluegrass work in northern regions. Warm season grasses like bermuda and zoysia work in the south. The calculator estimates area regardless of grass type.
How do I prepare the ground for sod?
Remove old grass, grade the area smooth, add 2 to 4 inches of topsoil, and roll it firm. The soil should be moist but not wet. The calculator helps you estimate topsoil needed for preparation.
Can I lay sod on existing grass?
It is better to remove or kill existing grass first. Laying sod over existing grass prevents proper root contact and leads to uneven results. The calculator gives you the area to prepare.