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How do you figure square feet for flooring?

Measure the length and width of every floor area that will receive flooring and multiply them. A 14-foot by 12-foot room is 168 square feet. Do the same for each room, closet, hall, and alcove, then add the results. A rough sketch with every dimension written on it keeps anything from being missed or counted twice.

Divide L-shaped rooms into rectangles and calculate each one. A 10-by-12-foot main area plus a 5-by-6-foot extension is 150 square feet: 120 + 30. Subtract fixed areas only where flooring will not go, such as built-in cabinets, islands, tubs, or fireplaces. Many installers measure to the walls without deducting small items, so match your method to the quote and the material order.

Once you have the net area, add waste. Straight-lay flooring in simple rooms may need about 5% to 10%. Diagonal patterns, many cuts, patterned products, or complex layouts can need more.

Round up to full cartons and keep some extra material for future repairs or dye-lot consistency.