How to calculate sod
Multiply lawn length by width, convert metric measurements to square feet when selected, and add waste. Divide the purchase area by the supplier's pallet or roll coverage and round up.
Sod formula
Purchase area = length × width × (1 + waste). Pallets or pieces equal purchase area ÷ package coverage, rounded up.
Worked example
A 50 × 30 foot lawn is 1,500 square feet. With 5% waste, plan for 1,575 square feet: four 450-square-foot pallets or 158 ten-square-foot pieces.
Practical tips
- Split irregular lawns into rectangles and subtract patios or beds.
- Confirm pallet coverage locally; sod sizes vary by grower and region.
- Prepare soil before delivery and install fresh sod promptly.
Assumptions and limitations
The calculator assumes a rectangular area and treats supplier coverage as exact. It does not estimate soil preparation, delivery, fertilizer, or irrigation.
Frequently asked questions
How much extra sod should I order?
About 5% may suit a simple rectangle; curves and many cuts can justify 10%.
Can leftover sod be stored?
Sod is perishable and heats quickly on pallets, so coordinate delivery and installation rather than planning long-term storage.