Sod Calculator
Estimate sod in square feet, rolls, and pallets for new lawns, patches, and renovations.
Your Sod Estimate
- Measure your lawn — length and width. For irregular shapes, break into rectangles.
- Choose roll size — standard is 2' × 5' (10 ft²). Commercial projects use big rolls (450 ft²).
- Set waste factor — 5% for rectangular lawns, 10–15% for curves and irregular shapes.
- Review results — rolls, pallets, and total square footage for ordering.
- Plan installation day — sod must be laid within 24 hours of delivery — it dies fast on a pallet.
How Much Sod Do I Need?
Sod is measured in square feet and sold by the roll, pallet, or square foot. A standard roll covers 10 square feet (2 feet wide × 5 feet long). One pallet contains about 50 rolls, covering approximately 500 square feet. For a typical 1,000 sq ft lawn, you need about 2 pallets (105 rolls including 5% waste).
The most important rule with sod: install it the same day it's delivered. Sod on a pallet starts to heat up and die within 12–24 hours — faster in summer heat. Water immediately after laying, and keep the sod consistently moist for the first 2 weeks until roots establish.
Sod Pricing Guide
Sod costs vary by grass type and your region:
| Grass Type | Cost per ft² | Cost per Pallet (500 ft²) | Best Climate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Bluegrass | $0.35–$0.60 | $175–$300 | Cool (northern US) |
| Bermuda | $0.25–$0.45 | $125–$225 | Warm (southern US) |
| Zoysia | $0.40–$0.70 | $200–$350 | Transition zone |
| St. Augustine | $0.30–$0.55 | $150–$275 | Warm, coastal |
| Tall Fescue | $0.30–$0.50 | $150–$250 | Cool to transition |
Add $1–$3 per sq ft for professional installation (soil prep, grading, laying, and initial watering). DIY installation saves significantly but requires fast work.
Sod Quantities Quick Reference
| Area | Rolls (10 ft²) | Pallets | Estimated Cost (material only) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250 ft² | 27 rolls | ~1 pallet | $90–$175 |
| 500 ft² | 53 rolls | ~1 pallet | $175–$350 |
| 1,000 ft² | 105 rolls | ~2 pallets | $350–$700 |
| 2,000 ft² | 210 rolls | ~4 pallets | $700–$1,400 |
| 5,000 ft² | 525 rolls | ~11 pallets | $1,750–$3,500 |
Includes 5% waste. Pricing based on $0.35–$0.70 per sq ft (varies by grass type and region).
Formulas
Simple area division:
With waste = Area × (1 + Waste %)
Rolls = Total area ÷ Roll size
Pallets = Rolls ÷ 50 (rounded up)
Standard sod rolls are 2' × 5' (10 ft²). Some farms sell 1.5' × 6' rolls (9 ft²). Confirm roll size with your supplier.
Related Calculators
Grade with topsoil before laying sod. Browse our landscaping calculator collection for mulch, compost, and lawn seed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many square feet of sod come on a pallet?
A standard pallet holds about 450 to 500 square feet of sod (approximately 50 rolls at 10 ft² each). Some suppliers stack 60 rolls per pallet (600 ft²). Always confirm with your supplier — pallet sizes vary by farm.
Can I lay sod over existing grass?
No. Laying sod over existing grass nearly always fails — the old grass and thatch layer prevents new roots from reaching soil, leading to sod that dries out and dies within weeks. Kill existing vegetation with herbicide (wait 2 weeks), then till and grade the soil before installing sod. For small patches, remove existing grass with a sod cutter or by hand.
How much does sod cost per square foot?
Sod costs $0.30–$0.80 per square foot for materials depending on grass type and region. Fescue and bluegrass are typically cheaper; Zoysia and St. Augustine run higher. Installation adds $0.50–$1.50/ft² for labor. A 1,000 ft² lawn installation typically costs $800–$2,500 total. Buying full pallets is cheaper per piece than half pallets.
How long does sod take to root?
Sod begins rooting within 2 weeks under good conditions and is typically established enough for normal use in 4–6 weeks. Full deep rooting takes 4–6 months. During establishment, water daily for the first 2 weeks (or more in heat), then gradually reduce frequency to encourage deep root growth. Avoid heavy foot traffic for the first 3–4 weeks.
How much extra sod should I buy for cuts and waste?
Buying a little extra helps cover trimming around edges, curves, and obstacles. A small waste factor is common for simple rectangular lawns, while irregular shapes usually need more overage.