What is Sod?
Sod, also known as turf, is a layer of grass and the part of the soil beneath it held together by the roots or a piece of thin material. It is used to establish lawns quickly and is often preferred for its immediate aesthetic appeal and erosion control benefits. For more information on sod, you can visit Wikipedia's page on sod.
Standard Pallet Dimensions
A standard pallet of sod typically contains between 50 to 70 square yards of turf. The exact amount depends on:
- Grass variety
- Cut thickness
- Season
- Regional standards
Factors Affecting the Weight of Sod
Several factors can influence the weight of a pallet of sod:
-
Type of Grass: Different grass species have varying densities and moisture content. For example, Bermuda grass may weigh differently than Kentucky bluegrass.
-
Moisture Content: The weight varies significantly based on moisture content:
- Dry: 1,500-2,000 pounds
- Normal: 2,000-2,500 pounds
- Saturated: 2,500-3,000 pounds
-
Soil Composition: Different soil types affect the weight:
- Sandy soil - lightest
- Loamy soil - medium weight
- Clay soil - heaviest
Average Weights by Region and Type
| Region | Average Pallet Weight |
|---|---|
| Northeast | 2,200 lbs |
| Southeast | 2,400 lbs |
| Midwest | 2,300 lbs |
| Southwest | 2,000 lbs |
| Northwest | 2,500 lbs |
Common grass types and weights:
- Bermuda Grass: Approximately 2,500 - 3,500 pounds per pallet
- Kentucky Bluegrass: Approximately 2,000 - 3,000 pounds per pallet
- Zoysia Grass: Approximately 2,500 - 3,500 pounds per pallet
Transportation and Handling
"Always verify your vehicle's payload capacity before attempting to transport sod." - American Sod Producers Association
Equipment Needs
- Pallet jack
- Forklift
- Motorized wheelbarrow
- Multiple workers for manual handling
Safety Precautions
- Wear steel-toed boots
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Keep pathways clear
- Plan for adequate manpower
Storage Considerations
Professional recommendations for storage:
Maximum storage time:
- Summer: 12-24 hours
- Spring/Fall: 24-48 hours
- Winter: 72 hours
When storing sod pallets:
- Place on level ground
- Avoid stacking pallets
- Consider weight distribution on surfaces
- Account for additional water weight from irrigation
For more detailed information about sod installation and handling, visit Turfgrass Producers International or This Old House's guide on laying sod.