Sod Calculator — Rolls Needed for a New Lawn
Sod (turf rolls) is sold by the roll, and each roll covers a fixed area. Getting the count right before delivery matters — dead sod cannot be returned. Enter your lawn dimensions and roll size to get the exact roll count, with a small allowance for edge cuts.
How we calculate
Roll area = roll length × roll width. Rolls = ⌈(lawn area × (1 + waste %)) ÷ roll area⌉.
Worked example
8 m × 5 m lawn = 40 m². With 5% waste: 42 m². Roll = 1.68 × 0.6 = 1.008 m². ⌈42 ÷ 1.008⌉ = 42 rolls.
Common mistakes
- Laying sod on unprepared ground — the soil must be cultivated, levelled, and fertilised first.
- Ordering sod days before you are ready to lay it — sod must be laid within 24–48 hours of delivery.
- Leaving gaps between rolls — butt rolls tightly and stagger joints like brickwork.
- Watering too lightly after laying — sod needs heavy watering daily for the first two weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How many rolls of sod do I need for my lawn?+
A standard roll is 1.68 m × 0.6 m, covering about 1 m². An 8 m × 5 m lawn (40 m²) needs approximately 42 rolls with a 5% waste allowance for edge cuts. Use this calculator to get the exact count for your dimensions.
How soon does sod need to be laid after delivery?+
Lay sod within 24 hours of delivery in warm weather, or within 48 hours in cool conditions. Sod heats up when stacked and will yellow quickly. If you cannot lay it immediately, unroll it in a shaded area and keep it moist.
How do I prepare the ground before laying sod?+
Rotovate or dig the soil to at least 100 mm, remove weeds and stones, level, and apply a pre-turf fertiliser. Firm the soil gently — it should be level but not hard-compacted. Water the day before laying so the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
How much water does new sod need?+
Water new sod heavily immediately after laying, and then daily for the first two weeks. The soil beneath should be moist to at least 100 mm depth. Reduce watering after the roots have knitted into the soil — usually after 2–3 weeks.