How to Calculate Flooring
Multiply room length by width to get the square footage. Then add a waste factor — 10% is standard for rectangular rooms, 15% for diagonal or complex layouts.
Divide the total by the coverage per box (check the packaging) to get the number of boxes. Always round up.
Waste Factor Guide
| Layout | Waste % |
|---|---|
| Simple rectangular room | 5–7% |
| Standard room with closet | 10% |
| Diagonal installation | 15% |
| Herringbone pattern | 15–20% |
FAQ
Should I buy extra boxes?
Yes — buy 1–2 extra boxes beyond the calculator result. You'll want spare planks for future repairs. The same batch/lot may not be available later.
Related Calculators
- Paint Coverage Calculator — gallons of paint for the walls in the same room
- Drywall Calculator — drywall sheets, tape, and compound for new construction
- Wallpaper Calculator — wallpaper rolls for the walls above your new floor
- Concrete Calculator — for leveling subfloors or garage floor slabs