Sod Calculator — How Much Sod Do I Need?
Enter your lawn size to get the exact sod you need in square feet, pallets, and rolls, with waste. No sign-up, no data stored.
Sod needed
How sod quantity is calculated
The math is simple and exact — no assumptions to adjust for:
- Lawn area = length × width (in square feet or meters).
- With waste = area × (1 + waste%).
- Pallets = area ÷ pallet coverage, rounded up.
- Rolls = area ÷ 10 sq ft per standard roll (2×5 ft), rounded up.
- Cost = pallets × price per pallet (only if you enter a price).
Add waste for irregular shapes, curved edges, flower beds, and trees. Sod arrives fresh and should be installed within hours of delivery, so order to arrive when you're ready to lay it.
Sod coverage chart
Pallet and roll sizes, and typical pricing.
Sod sizing
| Unit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Standard roll | 2 ft × 5 ft = 10 sq ft |
| Slab | ~2 ft × 2 ft = 4 sq ft |
| Pallet | ~400–500 sq ft |
Typical waste by lawn shape
| Lawn shape | Add for waste |
|---|---|
| Simple rectangle | ~5% |
| Irregular / L-shape | ~10% |
| Curved edges / beds | ~15% |
Typical sod cost (US)
| Item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Sod material | $0.30–$0.60 / sq ft |
| Per pallet | $350–$450 |
| Installed | $1–$2 / sq ft |
Last updated: October 2026 · Pallet coverage and pricing vary by farm and region. Confirm pallet size and get a written quote from your supplier before ordering.
Sod calculator FAQ
A quarter acre is about 10,890 sq ft. At 450 sq ft per pallet, that's about 25 pallets (with ~10% waste).
Divide your lawn area (plus waste) by the pallet coverage. If a pallet covers 450 sq ft and your lawn is 2,000 sq ft, that's 5 pallets — round up to be safe.
Sod costs more upfront (about 2–3× the price of seed) but gives an instant lawn and is more reliable. Seed is cheaper but needs weeks to establish and can wash out or get eaten by birds.
Both work, but early fall is often best — warm soil plus cooler air gives roots time to establish before winter. Spring is also good. Avoid laying sod in extreme heat or drought.
You want about 2–3 inches of quality topsoil over a level, well-drained base. Prepare the soil first so roots make good contact — skipping this is the most common cause of failed sod.