Planning a Sod Installation
Sod is sold three ways: by the piece (individual rolls or slabs), by the pallet, and by the square foot. A standard sod roll is 2 × 5 feet (10 sq ft). A full pallet covers 450–700 square feet depending on the farm and grass type. The price per square foot drops significantly when you buy by the pallet — often 30–40% less than buying individual rolls.
The Sod Calculator takes your lawn dimensions and returns all three units — square feet, rolls, and pallets — so you can get an accurate quote from any supplier. It includes a waste factor for cuts around edges, curves, and obstacles. Most installers recommend ordering 5–10% extra for waste; irregularly shaped lawns may need closer to 10–15%.
Timing matters as much as quantity. Sod should be laid within 24 hours of delivery — it starts to yellow and die on the pallet quickly, especially in warm weather. Order delivery for the morning you plan to install, have your topsoil prep done before the sod arrives, and plan to water immediately after installation.