How To Measure For Flooring

Measuring for new flooring can seem like an overwhelming and daunting task - so let’s take away that stress for you! New flooring can change the look, function of a space, and even increase the value of your home, so it’s important to be sure you have enough flooring for the space you’re looking to transform.

Step 1

Not all rooms are perfect squares or rectangles, so it’s best to start measuring the largest areas and then work backwards by subtracting from any area that doesn’t need flooring. Start by taking measurements of the longest wall to wall area first. You can then use our free square footage calculator.

Step 2

Now is where you will be doing some subtracting to get a more accurate estimate. Subtract the floor space of permanent objects where flooring will not be installed — for example, kitchen islands, fireplace or staircases. You can find the square footage of the objects by taking measurements and then entering them into our calculator provided above. You will want to subtract those numbers from your original estimate.

You want to be sure to add an extra 10% to account for closets and other irregularities.

Measuring Tips

• Allow an extra 2 inches or 5 cm on all sides for rough cut edges, etc.
• Because carpet has a pile direction much like the grain of wood, the pile must lay in the same direction. Don't forget to take into consideration when you need two or more pieces of carpet.
• If you have patterned carpet or vinyl, you will need extra material to enable you to get a good match in the pattern. Ask your Flooring Advisor about "pattern repeat."

Note: This is a guideline only.

The ultimate choice of a professional flooring installer rests with you, the consumer. It is your sole discretion to choose an installer who offers a guarantee on their work. End Of The Roll Flooring Centres accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions on this page, or any actions or workmanship of any independent installers.