How to use this calculator
- Measure the length and width of the room at its widest points.
- Choose your layout. Diagonal and herringbone patterns produce more offcuts.
- Enter the coverage per box from the product label.
- Enter the material price and, if you're hiring an installer, the labour rate.
How flooring quantities are calculated
Floor area is length × width for each room. We add a waste factor for your layout pattern, then divide by the box coverage and round up. Flooring is sold in whole boxes, so the area you pay for is always slightly more than you need.
Material cost is based on the area you actually buy. Labour is based on the floor area installed.
Pro tips
- Buy one extra box and keep it for future repairs. Discontinued colours are hard to match.
- Let laminate and hardwood acclimatise in the room for 48–72 hours before installing.
- For L-shaped rooms, split the floor into rectangles, calculate each one and add them together.
Frequently asked questions
How much extra flooring should I buy?
Add 5–10% for straight layouts, about 15% for diagonal layouts and 15–20% for herringbone or chevron patterns.
How many square feet are in a box of laminate?
Most laminate boxes cover 18–25 sq ft (about 1.7–2.3 m²). Luxury vinyl plank is usually 20–30 sq ft per box.
How do I measure a room for flooring?
Multiply the length by the width in feet to get square feet (or in metres for m²). For irregular rooms, divide them into rectangles and add the areas together.
These results are estimates for planning and budgeting. Actual quantities depend on site conditions, products and workmanship. Check structural and code requirements with a licensed professional before you build.