Square Footage Calculator
Calculate area for flooring, paint, or landscaping projects
How to Calculate Square Footage
Calculating the square footage of a room or outdoor space is a fundamental skill for home improvement, real estate, and construction. Whether you are buying hardwood flooring, ordering sod for your yard, or estimating paint requirements, getting the math right ensures you buy exactly what you need without overspending.
The Basic Formula
Area (sq ft) = Length (ft) × Width (ft)
If your measurements are in inches, divide each dimension by 12 first to convert them to feet. For example, a room that is 120 inches by 144 inches is actually 10 feet by 12 feet, resulting in 120 square feet.
Understanding the Waste Factor
When ordering materials like tile, laminate, or carpet, experts recommend adding a "waste factor." This accounts for cuts, mistakes, and the natural geometry of the room.
- 10% Waste: Standard for most rooms and rectangular areas.
- 15% Waste: Recommended for diagonal patterns or rooms with many corners and cutouts.
Practical Example
Imagine you have a living room that measures 18 feet long and 15 feet wide. You are planning to install vinyl planks that cost $3.50 per square foot.
- Step 1 (Base Area): 18 ft × 15 ft = 270 sq ft.
- Step 2 (Add Waste): 270 sq ft × 1.10 (10% waste) = 297 sq ft.
- Step 3 (Calculate Cost): 297 sq ft × $3.50 = $1,039.50 total.