Step 1: measure the area
Multiply length by width for each rectangular section and add them together. For a curved bed, break it into rectangles and triangles, or use the average width. Subtract planting beds and paths that will not get sod. Our own arithmetic: a 40 by 25 foot lawn is 1,000 sq ft.
Step 2: add extra
Sod Solutions, a sod grower, advises ordering 5 to 10 percent extra sod to account for waste and measurement errors. Use the higher figure for curves, slopes and many cuts around edges.
Step 3: turn square feet into pallets and rolls
The same grower says pallets generally range from 400 to 700 sq ft. Slabs and mini rolls are sold as 400, 450 or 500 sq ft pallets, and large rolls as 500, 600 or 700. Piece sizes are: a slab is 16 by 24 inches (2.66 sq ft), a mini roll is 40 by 18 inches (5 sq ft) and a large roll is 10 sq ft (60 by 24 or 80 by 18 inches).
Worked example: 1,000 sq ft x 1.10 = 1,100 sq ft. At 450 sq ft per pallet that is 1,100 / 450 = 2.44, so 3 pallets. In large rolls it is 110, in mini rolls 220, and in slabs about 414 (1,100 / 2.66). Fewer pallets means fewer deliveries, but a part pallet is often available, so ask your grower.
What to check with your grower
- Which grass type suits your area and sun, and which pieces they sell.
- The actual pallet size they quote. It changes the number of pallets you order.
- Delivery date and fee. Sod is a living product, so plan to have the ground ready when it arrives.
- Whether they sell part pallets.
Common mistakes
- Ordering exactly the lawn area with no extra, then running short on the last strip.
- Comparing prices per pallet without checking that the pallets are the same square footage.
- Forgetting to subtract beds and paths, which wastes money on sod you will cut off.
How much sod for common lawn sizes
Each row adds 10% and uses 450 sq ft pallets. Pallet sizes range from 400 to 700 sq ft, so confirm with your grower. Change any number in the sod calculator.
| Lawn | Sq ft to order | Pallets | Large rolls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 sq ft lawn | 550 | 2 | 55 |
| 1000 sq ft lawn | 1100 | 3 | 110 |
| 1500 sq ft lawn | 1651 | 4 | 166 |
| 2000 sq ft lawn | 2200 | 5 | 220 |
| 3000 sq ft lawn | 3301 | 8 | 331 |
| 5000 sq ft lawn | 5500 | 13 | 550 |
Frequently asked questions
How much extra sod should I order?
Sod Solutions advises 5 to 10 percent extra for waste and measurement errors. Lean toward 10 percent for curved edges.
How many square feet are on a pallet of sod?
Pallet sizes generally range from 400 to 700 sq ft. Slabs and mini rolls are commonly sold as 400, 450 or 500 sq ft pallets, and large rolls as 500, 600 or 700.
How big is a roll of sod?
A large roll is 10 sq ft, a mini roll is 5 sq ft (40 by 18 inches) and a slab is 16 by 24 inches (2.66 sq ft).
How many pallets for 1,000 sq ft?
With 10 percent extra, 1,100 sq ft. At 450 sq ft per pallet that is 2.44, so 3 pallets.
Does this cover soil prep and seed?
No. It covers sod only. For topsoil volume see the topsoil calculator, and for a seeded lawn see the grass seed guide.
Sources: Sod Solutions: square feet per pallet. Read 7 November 2026.
What you will also need for sod
Tools and supplies that go with this job. These are Amazon search links, so you can compare options and current prices there.
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