Laying sod is the fastest way to get an instant, lush green lawn, but it is also a significant investment. Unlike grass seed, which is cheap and forgiving, buying sod requires precision. Order too little, and you are left with unsightly dirt patches while you wait for a second delivery. Order too much, and you have wasted money on pallets of grass that will rot in your driveway.
🟩 Sod Roll Estimator
Calculated based on standard 10 sq ft rolls (2′ x 5′). We added +5% extra to cover cuts and corners.
Stop doing mental math. Use our Free Sod Roll Estimator below to calculate exactly how many standard rolls you need to cover your yard perfectly.
How to Use This Tool
Calculating sod requirements is straightforward if you follow these measuring steps:
- Measure Length & Width: Measure your lawn area in feet. If your yard is an irregular shape (like an L-shape), break it into smaller rectangles, calculate them individually, and add the rolls together.
- Enter Dimensions: Input your numbers into the tool.
- Get Your Result: The tool calculates the total square footage and converts it into standard 2' x 5' rolls.
Why We Built This (The "Secret Sauce")
Most generic calculators simply divide your area by 10 (the size of a standard roll). In the real world, that math fails.
We added a "Cutting Waste" Factor:
- The 5% Rule: You never use 100% of every roll. You will have to cut pieces to fit around sprinkler heads, curved flower beds, and walkways.
- Automatic Buffer: Our tool automatically adds 5% extra material to your total. This ensures that when you get to the final corner of your lawn, you have a fresh piece of sod to drop in, rather than trying to puzzle together scraps.
Educational Guide: Tips for a Flawless Lawn
Ordering the sod is the easy part. Laying it correctly ensures it roots deeply and survives the summer.
1. Soil Preparation is Everything
Don't just lay sod over hard dirt. Sod needs loose soil to establish roots quickly. Rototill the area and mix in organic compost to improve drainage and nutrient content before the pallet arrives.
2. Stagger the Seams
Lay your sod rolls in a brickwork pattern. The seams should never line up perfectly across the lawn. This prevents long channels where water can run off and helps the turf lock together faster.
3. Water Immediately
Sod is a living plant with chopped-off roots. It is in shock. You must water it within 30 minutes of installation. Keep it soaking wet for the first two weeks. If you are also fixing patches in other areas, check our grass seed calculator for overseeding tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a standard roll of sod?
The industry standard sod roll in the United States is 2 feet wide by 5 feet long, covering exactly 10 square feet. Some suppliers offer "big rolls" for large commercial jobs, but for homeowners, the 10 sq ft roll is standard.
How many rolls of sod are on a pallet?
A standard pallet usually holds between 50 and 60 rolls (covering 500 to 600 square feet). However, sod is extremely heavy when wet, so some suppliers may stack fewer rolls to meet weight limits for delivery trucks.
How long can sod sit on the pallet before laying?
Sod is perishable. In hot weather, it can begin to "cook" and compost itself within 24 hours. You should plan to lay the sod the exact same day it is delivered. If you must wait overnight, unroll it in a shady area and keep it moist.
