Sod Calculator
Find out exactly how much sod you need to cover your yard. Enter your lawn dimensions to get the number of rolls, pallets, and an estimated material cost including a waste allowance.
Choosing the Right Sod Type
The best sod variety depends on your climate zone. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue thrive in northern states. Warm-season options such as Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine, and centipede grass are best for southern climates. Transition zone homeowners often use tall fescue or Zoysia blends. Check with a local sod farm for varieties proven in your area and confirm that the sod was harvested within 24 hours of delivery for best results.
Preparing Your Yard for Sod
Proper soil preparation is the key to sod survival. Start by removing old grass, weeds, and debris. Till the top 4 to 6 inches of soil and mix in 2 to 3 inches of compost. Grade the area so it slopes away from your foundation at roughly 1 inch per 4 feet. Roll the soil lightly and water it the day before delivery. Lay the sod within hours of delivery, staggering seams like bricks, and water thoroughly within 30 minutes of installation.
Sod vs. Seed Cost Comparison
Sod gives you an instant lawn but costs 5 to 10 times more than seed. A 5,000 square foot yard might cost $1,500 to $2,500 for sod material alone, versus $150 to $300 for quality grass seed. However, sod eliminates the 8- to 12-week establishment period, reduces erosion risk, and works well on slopes where seed tends to wash away. For small high-visibility areas, sod is often the practical choice. For large acreage, seed is far more economical.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a standard sod roll?
A standard sod roll is 2 feet wide by 5 feet long, covering 10 square feet. Some farms sell large rolls (2×75 ft) for commercial projects.
How many square feet are on a pallet of sod?
A pallet typically holds 450 to 500 square feet of sod, which is about 50 standard rolls. Pallet sizes vary by farm.
How much waste should I plan for?
Plan for 5 to 10 percent extra for rectangular areas and up to 15 percent for curved or irregular shapes that require more cutting.
What does sod cost installed?
Sod material runs $0.30 to $0.80 per square foot. Professional installation adds $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot, bringing the total to roughly $1 to $2 per square foot.