how to measure a room

Measuring a room sounds simple, but there are a few key things you need to look out for to make sure you get a floor that fits perfectly. But don't fear! We're here to cover all of the basics for you and help you measure your areas easily.

1. Draw a simple diagram of your home

It doesn’t have to be perfect but the measurements need to be accurate. Just a simple drawing with all the rooms shown is all you need.

top tip

If your room is perfectly square or rectangular, the area can be calculated by multiplying the width by the length. For example, a room that is 5m x 2m will need 10m2 of flooring.

2. Chimneys and recesses

If your room includes recesses or chimney breasts, you still need to measure the complete surface area without these as the flooring will be cut around them.

3. Getting the final figure

Measure each individual area and write the measurement in the relevant space on the diagram. Then break the room down into smaller rectangles that you can add together to get the total area of the room.

top tip

Remember to add 5% extra for waste.

4. Last checks

Measure your lengths more than once to confirm they’re right – just remember to measure the back of any door frames or room trims.

How to measure stair carpet

When it comes to stairs or steps, the process is similar. Measure the height and depth of each stair to give you the length before multiplying by the width. This will give you the area of each step. Again, don’t forget to allow 10% for waste and to allow for any margin of error as staircases can be tricky.

Laminate, Wood Flooring & Luxury Vinyl Tiles

When you buy hard flooring like laminate, wood flooring or luxury vinyl tiles, bear in mind it is usually sold in packs that are labelled by their size in meters squared. For example, one pack might include 5m² of laminate flooring. So make sure that you have enough packs to cover the area needed, including wastage.

Watch our step-by-step video guides to measuring different room shapes from a simple room to a room with a join or extra space.

How to measure a simple room accurately

Watch our step-by-step guide to accurately measuring a simple room. It's never been easier to get a perfect fit.

How to measure a room with extra areas

Learn the basic steps to accurately measure a room with extra areas by watching our helpful video.

How to measure a room which requires a join

Accurately measure a room which requires a join by learning how from our step-by-step guide.

If all this sounds like too much, pop your name and address into our simple online form and arrange an appointment for our free measuring service. We’re guaranteed to be fast and accurate. Less waste means less overall cost!