About the sod calculator
Sod is sold by area, but suppliers package it differently: some by the piece, some by the roll, many by the pallet. Pallet coverage varies from farm to farm, so this calculator asks for your supplier’s numbers instead of guessing.
Enter your lawn area and a waste allowance. Add piece size and pallet coverage if you have them, and a price to estimate cost.
How to use this calculator
- Measure the lawn area. For irregular yards, use the Lawn Area Calculator first.
- Choose a waste allowance — more for curvy beds and many obstacles.
- Optionally enter the piece size and pallet coverage from your supplier.
- Add a price per square foot (or square meter) to estimate cost.
Worked examples
- 1,000 sq ft lawn with 5% waste.
- 1,000 × 1.05 = 1,050 sq ft
- Pieces 16 × 24 in = 2.67 sq ft → 1,050 ÷ 2.67 = 393.75
- Pallets covering 450 sq ft → 1,050 ÷ 450 = 2.33
Order 1,050 sq ft: 394 pieces or 3 pallets.
Measurement guidance
Lay sod quickly
Sod is perishable. Plan to install it the day it arrives, so prepare and level the soil before delivery.
Order for the shape
Simple rectangles waste little. Lawns with many curves, trees, and beds generate more offcuts, so raise the allowance to 10% or more.
Frequently asked questions
How many square feet are in a pallet of sod?
It varies by supplier and grass type. Ask your sod farm for the exact coverage per pallet and enter it in the calculator.
How much extra sod should I order?
About 5% for simple shapes and 10% or more for lawns with curves and obstacles is a common rule of thumb.
Should I order sod by the piece or pallet?
Pallets are usually more economical for large lawns. Pieces are handy for patching or small areas.