How Much Sod for a 1,000 sq ft Lawn?
A 1,000 sq ft lawn at 8% waste needs 1,080 sq ft of turf โ 2.16 pallets at standard 500 sq ft coverage, so you order 3 (or 2 plus cut rolls). Sod is perishable, so the order must be right the first morning. This guide covers the math and the install-day plan that keeps seams invisible.
Step-by-Step Takeoff
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1
Measure length ร width in sections; subtract beds, driveway, and walks.
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2
Order area: 1,000 ร 1.08 = 1,080 sq ft.
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3
Pallets: 1,080 รท 500 = 2.16 โ order 3 (leftovers patch thin spots).
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4
Prep: till 4โ6 in, level, roll, and lay starter fertilizer the same morning.
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5
Lay brick-pattern with tight seams, stagger joints, roll twice, and water to 6 in depth day one.
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6
Confirm pallet coverage with your farm in the Sod Calculator before ordering.
Guide FAQ
How long can sod sit on pallets?
Lay within 24 hours of cutting โ same day in heat. Stacked pallets compost from the inside.
How much does sod cost per pallet?
Roughly $150โ$350 per pallet DIY, $1โ$2 per sq ft professionally installed.
When is the best time to lay sod?
Early fall is ideal (warm soil, cool air); spring works with heavier watering.
How much do I water new sod?
Soak to 6 inches daily for 2 weeks, then taper to deep twice-weekly soakings.
Seed or sod for patchy spots?
Sod for instant cover over 50 sq ft; seed for small repairs and tight budgets.
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