How to Estimate How Much Flooring Is Needed in My Home

Ask a friend to help you measure the floors in your home.

Making an estimate how much flooring you need in your home can play a big role in planning your budget. It also is necessary if you plan to lay the flooring yourself. Whether you are interested in hardwood flooring, carpet or tile, you will use the same method to estimating how much flooring you need.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pen and paper
• Calculator
• Helper

Instructions

1. Draw a rough diagram of your space, including any closets and appliances. A diagram provides a place for you to list your measurements and ensure that you have not missed any spaces or walls.

2. Measure the floor using a tape measure. Lay the tape measure flat against the wall and stretch it out until it reaches the parallel wall. Repeat this step measuring in the opposite direction. Asking a friend or family member to assist you in holding the tape measure will make the process easier. Repeat this step with every space of your home. If you are going to include closets in your flooring, do not forget to measure these spaces, too.

3. Multiply each room's measurements to estimate the square footage of the space. To determine square footage, multiply the room's length by its width. You might need to estimate the square footage of certain parts of a room individually if the room is irregularly shaped. Add all measurements together to obtain the square footage of the house.

4. Calculate an extra 10 percent of the square footage of flooring for waste. It is important to account for waste if a mistake occurs during installation, or if the flooring receives damage prior to reaching your home. This is especially important if you plan to lay the flooring yourself.

References

• West Coast Flooring: Measuring Floors for Tile