Carpet Calculator
Calculate carpet square footage and square yards with a customizable waste factor.
Unit Conversion Reference
| Measurement | Equals |
|---|---|
| 1 square yard | 9 square feet |
| 1 square yard | 0.836 square metres |
| 1 square metre | 10.764 square feet |
| 1 square metre | 1.196 square yards |
| 12 ft roll × 1 yard length | 4 square yards |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is carpet sold by the square yard?
Carpet has traditionally been sold by the square yard in the US due to historical manufacturing standards. Carpet rolls are typically 12 feet wide, and pricing evolved around the yard measurement. One square yard equals 9 square feet. To convert: divide square feet by 9.
How much waste should I add for carpet installation?
Add 10% waste for standard rectangular rooms with no pattern. Add 15–20% for rooms with angled walls, bay windows, closets, or patterned carpet where the pattern must align at seams. Patterned carpet with large repeats wastes significantly more — up to 25% on some installations.
Do I need carpet padding?
Yes — carpet padding (also called underlay or cushion) is essential. It extends carpet life, adds cushioning underfoot, improves insulation, and reduces noise. Padding is sold by the square yard separately and should be calculated at the same area as the carpet. Choose 6–8 lb density for residential carpet.
How do I measure for carpet in rooms with closets?
Measure the room at its widest and longest points, including closets. Add closet dimensions to the room total. Since carpet must be cut from full rolls (usually 12 ft wide), careful layout planning with your installer can minimize seams and waste.
What is the standard carpet roll width?
Standard carpet rolls in the US are 12 feet wide. Some specialty carpets come in 13.2 ft (4 m) or 15 ft widths. The roll width affects seam placement — ideally, seams should fall in low-traffic areas. Your installer will plan the layout to minimize visible seams.