How much sod do I need?
Measure a lawn in sections, subtract uncovered spaces, and turn the result into pallets or loose rolls.
Short answer
Measure each lawn section, subtract patios and beds, add a fitting buffer once, then compare the target area with the supplier's pallet and roll coverage.
For homeowners planning a new lawn and checking a sod order before delivery.
How to do it
Measure the lawn
Split the lawn into rectangles and enter each length and width in the Sod Calculator.
Leave out uncovered spaces
Add patios, paths, beds, and other areas that will not receive sod as exclusions.
Add the fitting buffer
Apply the buffer once to the net lawn area, then review the target coverage.
Check package coverage
Enter pallet and loose-roll coverage from the supplier and compare the whole-package options.
Formula
Included rectangles minus exclusions equals net lawn area. Apply the buffer once, then round against whole pallet and roll coverage.
Illustrative example
A 1,500 sq ft net lawn with a 5% buffer has a 1,575 sq ft target. With 450 sq ft pallets and 10 sq ft rolls, the minimum-overage mix is 3 pallets plus 23 rolls.
Common mistakes
- Measuring the whole property instead of the lawn
- Adding the buffer to every row
- Using package coverage without checking the supplier label
Before you buy
Ask about pallet coverage, loose-roll availability, freshness, delivery access, and installation timing before you order.
What this guide does not cover
Irregular shapes, curves, slopes, seams, delivery timing, and supplier packaging can change the final order.
Use the calculator
Sod Calculator is the primary tool for this guide. You can also browse the other landscaping calculators.