How to calculate sod
Sod is priced by the square foot and delivered on pallets, so the first number you need is the area of your lawn. Add a little for trimming around edges, then divide by the size of a roll and of a pallet.
Sod to order = lawn area × (1 + waste %)
Rolls = sod to order ÷ roll size · Pallets = sod to order ÷ pallet size
Example: a 40 × 25 ft lawn is 1,000 sq ft. With 5% extra you need 1,050 sq ft, which is 105 rolls of 2 × 5 ft sod, or 2.3 pallets of 450 sq ft. Most suppliers sell full pallets, so you'd buy 3, or 2 pallets plus loose rolls if they sell partial orders.
Measuring an irregular lawn
- Split the lawn into rectangles, triangles and circles. A triangle's area is half its base times its height.
- Don't subtract small things like a birdbath or a single tree. The trimming waste covers them.
- For curved edges, measure to the outermost point. It's better to trim extra sod than to come up short.
- Add the areas together and use the "I know the area" option.
Laying sod: what to have ready
- Prepared soil: a few inches of loose, level topsoil. Use the topsoil calculator if you need to bring some in.
- Water on hand: a hose and sprinkler that reach the whole lawn, because sod needs a thorough soaking right after laying.
- Tools: a sharp utility knife or flat spade for trimming, and a lawn roller to press the sod into the soil.
- Help: a pallet of sod can weigh over a ton. Line up a helper if you're laying more than a pallet or two.
Frequently asked questions
How much sod is on a pallet?
It depends on the farm and the grass, but pallets typically hold about 400 to 500 square feet. Ask your supplier for their exact pallet size and enter it above.
How big is a roll or piece of sod?
Common sizes are rolls of about 2 × 5 feet (10 square feet) and small slabs of 16 × 24 inches (about 2.67 square feet). Large commercial rolls are much bigger and need machinery to lay.
How much extra sod should I order?
Order about 5 percent extra for a simple rectangular lawn and 10 percent or more for curved beds, lots of trees or irregular edges, since every edge piece is trimmed.
How fast do I need to lay sod after delivery?
Sod is a living plant and starts to dry out and heat up on the pallet. Plan to lay it the same day it arrives, ideally within 24 hours, and water it right after installing.
How do I prepare the ground for sod?
Clear old grass and weeds, loosen the soil, spread a few inches of good topsoil if needed, rake it level and firm it lightly. The sod should sit slightly below paths and driveways once laid.