A small buffer can cover spreading loss and thin edges. Use the amount that fits the site and product instructions.

Should I use the default rate?

Use it for early planning. When you choose a product, use its bag-label rate instead.

What counts as lawn area?

Include the ground you will seed. Exclude buildings, pavement, beds, and other surfaces that will not receive seed.

Estimate seed for a new lawn or overseeding project.

A new lawn uses more seed than overseeding existing turf.

Choose Custom rate when the product instructions differ from the planning default.

The buffer changes total pounds; bag size changes how many whole bags to buy.

Check the bag label.

Varieties and products use different rates. Custom rate lets the package instructions override this calculator's planning default.

Trace the actual lawn shape on the satellite map when a length × width estimate is too rough.