Calculate your materials
What you'll need to buy
- Sod (by roll or pallet)Fresh-cut turf for your climate zoneShop
- Starter fertilizerHigh-phosphorus mix for root establishmentShop
- Topsoil / soil amendmentLevels and feeds the seedbed firstShop
- Sod rollerPresses roots into contact with soilShop
- Sprinkler / hose timerKeeps new sod consistently wateredShop
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How the math works
A 450 sq ft lawn with 5% waste = 472.5 sq ft → 48 rolls, or about 1.05 pallets (order 2 pallets, or buy the extra rolls loose).
Formula
Reference values
| Unit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 1 sod roll | = 10 sq ft (24" × 60") |
| 1 pallet | ≈ 450 sq ft (45 rolls) |
| Pallet (warm-season) | 450–500 sq ft |
| Roll weight | ≈ 35–45 lbs |
Step by step
- Measure your lawn and break odd shapes into rectangles, circles, or triangles.
- Add up the total square footage.
- Add 5–15% waste depending on how many curves and beds you'll cut around.
- Divide by 10 for rolls or by 450 for pallets, and round up.
Waste allowance
Always add a waste factor: more for diagonal, herringbone, or irregular layouts and for trenches in rocky soil. It's cheaper to round up than to pay for a second delivery.
Bags vs. bulk
Bagged material is convenient for small jobs, but loose/bulk delivery is almost always cheaper per unit once you pass roughly 1–3 cubic yards. Compare the per-cubic-yard price before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
How many rolls of sod do I need?
Divide your lawn's square footage by 10 (each roll covers 10 sq ft), then add waste for cuts. A 450 sq ft lawn with 5% waste needs about 48 rolls.
How many square feet are in a pallet of sod?
A pallet typically covers about 450 sq ft (around 45 rolls), though warm-season pallets can be 450–500 sq ft. Always confirm with your supplier as it varies by region.
How much extra sod should I order?
Add 5% for simple rectangular lawns, 10% for curved or irregular edges, and up to 15% when cutting around many beds, trees, or walkways.
How long does sod last after delivery?
Lay sod within 24 hours of delivery, sooner in hot weather. It's living grass and will yellow or die if left rolled or stacked on a pallet too long.
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