Sod Calculator: Rolls, Pallets, and Cost
Installing sod gives you an instant lawn. But knowing exactly how much sod to order prevents wasting expensive turf or falling short mid-job. Our sod calculator estimates the number of rolls, pallets, and total cost for your new lawn based on area and grass type.
How to Calculate Sod
Start by measuring your lawn area accurately:
For rectangular yards, simply multiply length × width. For irregular shapes, break into rectangles and circles and add them up, or use the offset method.
Sod Roll Size
Standard sod rolls vary by supplier, but common sizes:
- 2 sq ft rolls — 16" × 18" (small rolls, easier for DIY)
- 2.67 sq ft rolls — 16" × 24" (common standard)
- 3 sq ft rolls — 18" × 24" (large roll)
- Big rolls / slabs — commercial, up to 10 sq ft each
Pallet Size
Sod is typically delivered by the pallet:
- 400-500 sq ft per pallet — standard for most farms
- 150 rolls per pallet — common for 3 sq ft rolls
- Always order full pallets — most farms don't split pallets
Popular Grass Types
- Bermuda — warm-season, drought-tolerant, full sun, southern states
- Tall Fescue — cool-season, shade tolerant, transition zone
- St. Augustine — warm-season, shade tolerant, Gulf Coast
- Zoysia — warm-season, fine texture, slow growing
- Centipede — warm-season, low maintenance, acidic soils
- Kentucky Bluegrass — cool-season, self-repairing, northern states
Example: 30×20 Lawn
30 ft × 20 ft lawn (600 sq ft), Bermuda sod, 5% waste:
- Area: 30 × 20 = 600 sq ft
- With 5% waste: 630 sq ft
- Rolls (3 sq ft): 630 ÷ 3 = 210 rolls
- Pallets: 210 ÷ 150 = 1.4 → 2 pallets
- Estimated cost: ~$300-$400 for 2 pallets
How Much Waste to Add
Add extra sod for cuts and mistakes:
- 3-5% — simple rectangular yard, few obstacles
- 5-7% — average yard with trees, walkways, curves
- 10% — complex shapes, many features, diagonal pattern
FAQ
How much does sod cost?
$0.30-$0.80 per square foot for the sod itself. Installation adds another $0.50-$1 per sq ft.
When should I lay sod?
Cool-season grasses: early fall or early spring. Warm-season grasses: late spring through summer.
How long does it take sod to root?
Sod typically roots in 10-14 days. Wait 2-3 weeks before heavy foot traffic.