When you’re getting ready to lay sod for a new lawn in California, whether it’s your backyard or a commercial job site, knowing how much ground your sod will cover is crucial. It helps you figure out the right amount of sod to order, estimate pricing, and make sure you’re not left short or wasting product.
This guide will explain why focusing on square footage is the best approach when ordering sod and what factors influence the amount of sod you’ll receive in your delivery.
Key Takeaways
- While sod is often delivered on pallets, the square footage per pallet can vary significantly (from 400 to 600 sq ft or more) depending on the sod type and the grower.
- Different types of sod have varying densities and cuts, affecting how much can be packed onto a single pallet and how they perform in your California yard.
- Sod comes in rolls or slabs, and the packing method can influence the total square footage you receive.
- Local pallet of sod sizes differ across California. Using our sod calculator is the most reliable way to determine the exact square footage you need, preventing waste and ensuring you have enough material.
Why Ordering by Square Footage Matters
Instead of focusing on the number of pallets, thinking in terms of square footage ensures you get the precise amount of sod needed for your project. Here’s why:
- Avoids Guesswork: Pallet sizes aren’t standardized. Recommending square footage eliminates the uncertainty of varying pallet contents.
- Cost Efficiency: Ordering by how much sod you need minimizes waste, saving you money on unused sod and potential disposal fees.
- Project Accuracy: Knowing the precise square footage ensures you have enough sod to complete your lawn installation without delays or needing to place a second order.
Choosing the Right Grass Type and Its Impact on Coverage
The type of sod you select for your California lawn directly influences how it’s packed and, consequently, the potential square footage per pallet.
For instance, denser grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and Tall Fescue can often be packed more tightly compared to thicker cuts such as St. Augustine or Centipede. Even within a grass type, like Bermuda, different varieties (e.g., Palmetto vs. TifTuf) can have varying densities.
At SodLawn, we partner with regional California growers to provide sod that thrives in your local climate. We focus on delivering the square footage of new sod you need, regardless of how it’s packed onto the pallet.
Rolls Versus Slabs: Understanding the Delivery Format
When your fresh sod arrives, it will likely be in rolls or slabs. Both have their advantages for installation, and the way they are bundled can slightly affect the perceived size of a pallet.
- Rolls: Typically longer and heavier, ideal for covering large, open areas quickly.
- Slabs: Easier to handle for smaller areas and intricate landscaping.
While the packaging might differ, our focus is on ensuring you receive the total square footage you ordered.
Considering Sod Thickness and Moisture Content
Sod thickness, often chosen for durability in high-traffic areas like sports fields, can also influence the number of square feet per pallet due to the added weight. Thicker sod holds more moisture.
For residential lawns, a standard thickness is usually sufficient. Regardless of the thickness, we ensure you receive the ordered square footage. Preparing your soil with the appropriate topsoil or mulch will also help ensure proper sod installation and accurate coverage.
Regional Variations in Pallet Sizes Across California
It’s important to remember that sod farms across California may use slightly different pallet dimensions. For example, a grower in Southern California might pack a pallet with a different square footage than a farm in the Central Valley.
This is why relying on pallet counts can be misleading. Our sod calculator removes this complexity by focusing on your required square footage, ensuring you get consistent results no matter where the sod originates.
Accurate Measurement is Key to Successful Sod Installation
To avoid over- or under-ordering, always measure your lawn area carefully. Our online sod calculator is a helpful tool for this, allowing you to input your dimensions and get an accurate estimate of the square footage you need.
Even small miscalculations can lead to shortages or excess sod, impacting your project timeline and budget, especially when considering ongoing lawn care, mowing, and irrigation planning.
Need Help Determining Your Sod Needs?
Whether you’re installing Kentucky Bluegrass in Sacramento or St. Augustine in Riverside, our team helps homeowners and landscapers determine the right amount of sod based on their exact measurements and location in California. We offer fresh, locally grown sod with convenient delivery and even full-service installation throughout the Golden State.
Use our easy-to-use sod calculator today to determine your exact square footage needs. Or, give us a call, and our experts will ensure you get the perfect sod for your soil, layout, and vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can sod stay on a pallet before it needs to be installed?
For best results, install your sod within 24 hours of delivery. Delaying installation, especially in California’s heat, can lead to damage and poor establishment.
Can I return unused sod if I order too much?
As a perishable product, sod typically cannot be returned. Accurate measurement and ordering are essential to avoid waste and additional costs.
What’s the best time of year to lay sod in California?
Spring and early fall provide the most favorable conditions for sod installation in California, with moderate temperatures and sufficient moisture for healthy root development.
How many square feet are in a pallet of sod in California?
The number of square feet per pallet can vary depending on the type of sod and the grower. In California, most pallets contain between 400 and 600 square feet of sod. However, this can change based on whether the sod is cut into slabs or rolls, its thickness, and how it’s packed. For the most accurate estimate, measure your lawn in square feet rather than relying on pallet count.
