Home Improvement
Flooring Calculator
Measure the room, add a waste allowance, then see how many packs to order.
How much flooring do I need?
Buy extra flooring for cuts, pattern matching and mistakes. Ten per cent waste is a common starting point for straight plank runs; tiles and herringbone often need more. Enter room dimensions and pack coverage, then check the coverage printed on the pack rather than a generic chart — brands differ. Exclude built-in cupboards you will not floor, but include alcoves that still need cuts. Underlay, beading and threshold strips are separate lines. Related: tile calculator and paint calculator for other finishing quantities. Compare material spend with cost comparison if you are choosing between ranges. Estimate only — not a fitter’s survey. Acclimatise timber and laminate as the manufacturer specifies; quantity maths will not save a floor that cups after a damp delivery. Pattern matches on wide planks increase waste beyond textbook percentages — open a pack and dry-lay a row before you finalise the order. Keep receipts and batch numbers with the spare packs for future repairs.
Worked example
Room 4.2 m × 3.1 m = 13.02 m². Add 10% waste → about 14.3 m². Packs cover 2.05 m² each → seven packs (14.35 m²). Herringbone in the same room at 15% waste needs about 15.0 m² — often an eighth pack. Keep one pack aside if the shade may be discontinued.
Limits and assumptions
Assumes a rectangular room. L-shapes need segmented areas. Does not check joist direction, moisture tests or underfloor heating compatibility. Not Building Regulations advice.
Frequently asked questions
How much waste should I allow?
Around 10% for simple layouts; 15% or more for diagonals, herringbone or lots of doorways.
Should I include cupboards?
Exclude built-in areas you will not floor, but add awkward alcoves that still need cuts.
What if packs cover in m²?
Enter total room area (plus waste) and divide by pack coverage — the calculator handles that flow when you provide pack size.
Do I measure in metres or centimetres?
Either works if you stay consistent; UK packs usually quote m² so metres are convenient.
Should stairs be separate?
Yes — stair waste factors differ. Calculate treads and risers with their own allowance.