Sod Calculator

Multiply lawn length × width in feet to get square footage, add 10% for cutting waste, then divide by 450 sq ft per pallet. Example: 50×30 ft = 1,500 sq ft + 10% = 1,650 sq ft ÷ 450 = 3.7 pallets — order 4 pallets.

Most US sod pallets cover 450–500 sq ft. Individual rolls are typically 2×5 ft (10 sq ft) or 2×4.5 ft (9 sq ft). Confirm coverage with your local sod farm — pallet sizes vary slightly by region and grass type.

Professional sod installation runs $0.40–$0.70 per square foot including soil prep, laying, and rolling. A 1,500 sq ft lawn costs $600–$1,050 for labor alone. DIY installation saves labor but requires proper grading and daily watering.

Bermuda is more drought-tolerant and affordable but needs full sun. St. Augustine tolerates partial shade and is the standard in Florida and Gulf Coast lawns but uses more water. Choose based on your climate zone and sun exposure.

New sod roots in 10–14 days with daily watering. Avoid heavy foot traffic for 2–3 weeks. First mowing when grass reaches 3–4 inches — usually 2–3 weeks after installation. Full establishment takes 4–6 weeks.

Yes — grade the area, remove debris, and add 1–2 inches of quality topsoil or compost if existing soil is poor clay or compacted. Rake smooth, roll lightly, and water the soil before laying sod for best root contact.

Cool-season grass (bluegrass, fescue): early fall or spring. Warm-season grass (Bermuda, St. Augustine): late spring through early fall when actively growing. Avoid laying sod in extreme heat or when ground is frozen.

No — kill or remove existing grass and weeds first. Laying sod over old turf leads to poor rooting, uneven surfaces, and disease. Use glyphosate or solarization, then till and grade before new sod.