Flooring Calculator
Calculate the amount of flooring materials needed for your project, including hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, and carpet.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter the length and width of your room in feet, select the type of flooring you plan to install, and choose an appropriate waste factor. The calculator will determine the total amount of flooring material you'll need, including extra for waste.
The waste factor accounts for cuts, mistakes, and future repairs. For simple rectangular rooms, 5-10% is usually sufficient. For complex rooms with many corners or diagonal installations, use 15-20%.
Flooring Installation Guide
Proper flooring calculation is essential to ensure you purchase enough material without excessive waste. Different flooring types have different installation requirements and waste factors.
Flooring Types Comparison
| Flooring Type | Durability | Installation Difficulty | Typical Waste Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood | High | Moderate to High | 10-15% |
| Laminate | Medium | Low to Moderate | 7-10% |
| Tile | Very High | High | 10-20% |
| Vinyl | Medium to High | Low | 5-10% |
| Carpet | Low to Medium | Moderate | 10-15% |
Installation Tips
- Acclimate your flooring material to the room's environment for at least 48 hours before installation
- Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level before beginning installation
- For hardwood and laminate, leave an expansion gap around the perimeter of the room
- For tile, use spacers to ensure consistent grout lines
- For carpet, consider the direction of the pile when planning your installation