Flooring Calculator
Calculate flooring square footage with a customizable waste factor for any room size.
Recommended Waste Factors by Flooring Type
| Flooring Type | Straight Lay | Diagonal / Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Hardwood / Engineered Wood | 10% | 15% |
| Laminate | 10% | 15% |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | 10% | 15% |
| Ceramic / Porcelain Tile | 10% | 15–20% |
| Carpet | 10% | 15% |
| Natural Stone | 10–15% | 20% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra flooring should I order for waste?
For standard rectangular rooms with straight-lay installation, add 10% for waste. For diagonal installation, add 15%. For complex shapes, multiple rooms, or herringbone patterns, add 15–20%. Waste accounts for cuts at walls, damaged pieces, and future repairs.
How do I calculate flooring for an L-shaped room?
Break the L-shape into two rectangles. Measure and calculate each rectangle separately, then add the totals together. Apply your waste factor to the combined total. This method works for any irregular room shape.
What is the difference between square feet and square yards?
One square yard equals 9 square feet (3 ft × 3 ft). Carpet is commonly sold by the square yard in the US, while hardwood, tile, and laminate are typically sold by the square foot. To convert: divide square feet by 9 to get square yards.
How do I measure a room for flooring?
Measure the longest length and width of the room in feet. For irregular rooms, measure the overall bounding rectangle (the largest length × largest width). This overshoots slightly, which is fine since you'll cut pieces to fit. Always measure twice.
Do I need to remove the old flooring before installing new flooring?
It depends on the flooring type and existing conditions. Hardwood generally requires removal of old flooring to ensure a flat subfloor. Luxury vinyl plank and laminate can often be installed as a floating floor over existing hard flooring. Always check the manufacturer's installation guide.