Sod Calculator

Calculate sod pallets, rolls, and costs for your lawn installation project

Typical: $150-$400 per pallet (500 sq ft)

Sod Installation Guide

Calculate Area:

Area = Length × Width (in feet)

For irregular shapes, break into sections

Pallets Needed:

Pallets = (Area ÷ 500) × 1.05

1 pallet = 500 sq ft (50 rolls of 10 sq ft each)

Installation Tips:

  • Prepare soil: till, level, add topsoil if needed
  • Install within 24 hours of delivery
  • Stagger seams like bricks
  • Water immediately and keep moist for 2 weeks

History

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Pro Tips

  • Order 5-10% extra for waste
  • Install in spring or fall for best results
  • Keep sod moist but not soggy
  • Wait 2-3 weeks before first mowing
  • Use a lawn roller after installation

Grass Types

Kentucky Bluegrass
Cool season, full sun
Bermuda Grass
Warm season, drought tolerant
Fescue
Cool season, shade tolerant
Zoysia
Warm season, low maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

How much sod do I need for my lawn?

Calculate total square footage: Length × Width. For irregular shapes, break into sections and add together. A standard pallet covers 500 square feet. For a 2,000 sq ft lawn, you need 4 pallets. Always add 5-10% extra for cutting and waste around curves and edges.

How much does a pallet of sod cover?

A standard pallet covers approximately 500 square feet (50 sq yards). Some suppliers offer smaller or larger pallets. Individual rolls typically cover 10 square feet each (2 ft × 5 ft), with 50 rolls per pallet. Check with your supplier for exact specifications as sizes can vary.

How much does sod cost per square foot?

Sod typically costs $0.30-$0.80 per square foot, or $150-$400 per pallet (500 sq ft). Premium grass varieties cost more. Installation labor adds $0.50-$1.50 per sq ft. Total installed cost is usually $0.80-$2.30 per sq ft. Prices vary by location, season, and grass type.

How do I prepare for sod installation?

Remove existing grass and weeds, till soil 4-6 inches deep, level the area and remove rocks and debris. Add topsoil if needed (minimum 4-6 inches). Apply starter fertilizer. Grade for proper drainage away from buildings. Moisten soil before laying sod. Install sod within 24 hours of delivery for best results.

Learn More

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What Our Users Say

"This calculator makes quoting lawn installations so much faster! The pallet calculations are exactly what we need for ordering, and clients appreciate the cost estimates. Use it on every residential lawn project."

Jennifer Wilson
Landscape Contractor

"Super helpful for my backyard lawn project! I calculated exactly how many pallets I needed and the estimate was spot-on. The cost calculator helped me budget properly. My new lawn looks amazing!"

Mark Davis
Homeowner

"Great tool for estimating sod needs across multiple properties. The history feature lets me track different lawn sizes easily. Accurate calculations that match what landscapers quote us."

Carlos Rodriguez
Property Manager