Home › Sod Calculator
Sod Calculator
Calculate how much sod to order for a new lawn. The result is shown in square feet, pallets, standard 16 × 24 inch slabs and 10 sq ft rolls, so you can compare it with whatever your supplier sells.
Results are estimates. Soil, stone and mulch settle, weigh differently and vary by supplier. Confirm quantities and local requirements before ordering.
How to calculate it
Measure the lawn area. For rectangles, multiply length by width. For circles, use π × radius². For irregular lawns, divide the space into simple shapes and add their areas together.
Add 5–10% for cuts and waste (15% for curved or complex shapes), then divide by the coverage of one pallet. Pallet coverage varies between farms, typically between 400 and 600 sq ft, so ask your supplier before ordering.
Worked example
A 50 ft × 30 ft lawn with 5% extra:
| Lawn area | 1,500 sq ft 166.7 sq yd |
|---|---|
| Sod to order | 1,575 sq ft includes 5% extra |
| Pallets | 3.5 at 450 sq ft per pallet; order 4 pallets |
| Slabs (16 × 24 in, 2.67 sq ft) | 591 pieces |
| Rolls (10 sq ft) | 158 rolls |
| Acres | 0.0344 |
Common sod sizes
| Format | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Standard slab (16 × 24 in) | about 2.67 sq ft |
| Small roll | about 10 sq ft |
| Pallet | about 400–600 sq ft, varies by farm |
Tips
- Order sod for delivery the day you plan to lay it. It starts to heat up and degrade within a day or two on the pallet.
- Prepare the soil first: grade, remove stones, and add 1–2 inches of topsoil if the ground is poor.
- Water newly laid sod right away and keep it moist for the first few weeks.
- Lay the slabs in a brick pattern with tight seams, and cut edges with a sharp knife.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pallet of sod cover?
It varies by farm and type. It is commonly around 450–500 sq ft for slab sod, but it can range from about 400 to 600 sq ft.
How many square feet are in a piece of sod?
A common slab is 16 × 24 inches, which is about 2.67 sq ft. Some farms sell other sizes or big rolls.
How much extra sod should I order?
About 5–10% for a simple rectangle, and 15% for curves or tight spaces, since you will cut more pieces.
How much does sod cost per square foot?
Prices vary a lot by region, grass type and delivery. Enter your local price in the optional field to see the total.