How to Calculate How Much Flooring You Need
Ordering the right amount of flooring avoids both shortfalls mid-installation and expensive overage. The key is measuring accurately and adding a waste factor for cuts, defects, and future repairs.
Step 1: Calculate Total Square Footage
Simple rectangular room:
Area = Length Γ Width
12 ft Γ 15 ft = 180 sq ft
L-shaped room: Divide into two rectangles and add them together.
Irregular rooms: Break into smaller rectangles or triangles; calculate each area separately.
Step 2: Add Waste Factor
| Flooring Type | Recommended Waste | When to Add More |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl plank (straight) | 5β8% | Add 10% for diagonal install |
| Hardwood (parallel to walls) | 7β10% | 15% for diagonal |
| Ceramic tile (straight) | 10% | 15% for diagonal |
| Laminate | 10% | 15% for diagonal or herringbone |
| Carpet | 10β15% | Account for pattern matching |
Example: 180 sq ft room with hardwood installed parallel to walls 180 Γ 1.08 = 194.4 sq ft β Order 195β200 sq ft
Step 3: Convert to Units Sold
Flooring is often sold by the box. Check how many sq ft each box covers. If boxes cover 22 sq ft each: 195 / 22 = 8.86 β Order 9 boxes (198 sq ft)
Measuring Tips
- Measure in feet and inches, convert inches to decimal (e.g., 6 inches = 0.5 ft)
- Measure at the widest points of each wall
- Include closets and alcovesβthey use flooring too
- Measure under door casings; you don't remove these
Use our flooring calculator for any room shape or flooring type.