Carpet Measurement Guide
As carpets and sheet vinyl only usually come in set widths, measuring a room for them differs slightly to measuring for a hard floor in that you only need to take two measurements – the longest length and the widest width.
Measuring a square or rectangular room
To start, let's measure the width of your room, which includes any alcoves, door recesses, or bay windows (A).
Keep in mind that carpets typically come in set widths of 4m and 5m, so if your room falls in between sizes, it's best to choose the larger option.
Next, let's measure the length of your room, again including any alcoves, door recesses, or bay windows (B).
When it comes to carpet length, we can cut it to fit any size you need. It's always best to add an extra 10% to your measurement, to account for any deviations in the wall aswell as allowing for a perfect fitting.
Measuring an unusual shaped room
Let's get started by measuring the width of your room and making note of any unique features like alcoves, door recesses, or bay windows (A).
If your room has an unusual shape, don't worry! Simply measure the widest width and longest length to figure out how much carpet you'll need.
For example, if you have an L-shaped room, you may end up with extra material in the highlighted area (C).
Let's make sure we get it just right!
How to Measure Stairs for Carpets
Measuring stairs can be a bit more complex than measuring a room as the stairs, landing, and hallway need to be measured individually. Follow our guide below for detailed step-by-step instructions on how to measure stairs accurately.
How to Measure Standard Stairs
To measure standard straight stairs, you'll require two measurements: the length of the tread and riser of one step, as well as its width. Checking two or three additional steps is recommended to ensure consistency.
Unlike rooms with alcoves, each step of a stair carpet can be installed individually, with the joints hidden within the groove. However, winding stairs, middle landings, and bullnoses require separate measurements. Keep reading for complete instructions.
How to measure winding stairs
Certain staircases feature curved steps, commonly known as winders, which require individual measurements done slightly differently from straight stairs.
To determine the width of winders, measure the widest point instead of parallel to the edge of the step, ensuring enough carpet to cover the area entirely. Repeat this process for each winder.
When measuring the tread and riser, position the tape measure at a 90-degree angle to the deepest point of the step's edge.
How to measure a bullnose
A bullnose is a larger bottom step that curves slightly and is sometimes present at the bottom of staircases, varying in size and shape. However, not all staircases have bullnoses, with some only having a straight step.
To measure a bullnose, measure the tread and riser as usual, but also take measurements around the widest points of the bullnose.
How to Measure Hardwood Flooring
It's a wise move to measure your room before deciding on a new flooring, to ensure that it fits within your budget. Typically, flooring is sold in square meters (m2), so it's crucial to measure your room accordingly.
To measure real wood, luxury vinyl, and laminate floors, refer to the guide below. If you plan to order carpet or sheet vinyl, you can use our convenient guide.
How to Calculate
Calculating the area of a rectangle is a simple process. To find the area of a rectangular room, all you need to do is multiply the length by the width.
How to calculate the area of an oddly shaped room
Calculating the area of an irregularly shaped room can be achieved by dividing the space into rectangles. In the case of an L-shaped room, you can divide it into two rectangles, calculate their individual areas by multiplying length by width, and then add them together to obtain the total area.
For rooms with bay windows or alcoves, divide the space into as many rectangles as necessary, calculate the area of each by multiplying length by width, and then sum up all the rectangles to determine the total area.
How much extra should you add for wastage?
When determining the amount of flooring required for a room, it's essential to factor in wastage by adding at least 10% to the final size. The simplest method to do this is by multiplying the total square meter area of the room by 1.10, resulting in the total flooring required in square meters, including necessary excess.
Why is it important to allow for wastage in flooring?
Allowing for wastage in flooring is crucial for various reasons. During installation, you may require off-cuts that are slightly bigger than the remaining material from the previous row to start the next one. Wastage also provides room for errors that may occur when fitting around complex cut areas such as pipes. Remember, it's always better to have extra flooring and not require it than to need more and not have enough.
How to Measure a room for Carpet Tiles
It's a wise move to measure your room before deciding on a new flooring, to ensure that it fits within your budget. Typically, flooring is sold in square meters (m2), so it's crucial to measure your room accordingly.
To measure real wood, luxury vinyl, and laminate floors, refer to the guide below. If you plan to order carpet or sheet vinyl, you can use our convenient guide.
How to Calculate
Calculating the area of a rectangle is a simple process. To find the area of a rectangular room, all you need to do is multiply the length by the width.
How to calculate the area of an oddly shaped room
Calculating the area of an irregularly shaped room can be achieved by dividing the space into rectangles. In the case of an L-shaped room, you can divide it into two rectangles, calculate their individual areas by multiplying length by width, and then add them together to obtain the total area.
For rooms with bay windows or alcoves, divide the space into as many rectangles as necessary, calculate the area of each by multiplying length by width, and then sum up all the rectangles to determine the total area.
