How to Calculate the m² of Your Room and Determine Fitting Wastage

When purchasing flooring, it’s essential to know the total square meters (m²) required for your space. Additionally, factoring in fitting wastage ensures you order enough material to accommodate offcuts and unexpected adjustments. This guide will walk you through the process of measuring your room and determining the right amount of flooring to order.

Step 1: Measuring Your Room

To calculate the total square meters (m²) of your room, follow these steps:

Measure the Length and Width – Use a tape measure to find the length and width of your room in meters.
Multiply Length by Width – Multiply these two measurements to get the total floor area.

Example Calculation:

If your room is 5 meters long and 4 meters wide, the total area is:

Step 2: Accounting for Irregular Shapes

If your room is not a perfect rectangle, break it into smaller sections, calculate each section separately, and then add them together.

Example:

If your room has an L-shape, measure each rectangular section separately, calculate their areas, and add them:

Section 1: 4m × 3m = 12m²
Section 2: 2m × 2m = 4m²

Total Room Area: 12m² + 4m² = 16m²

Step 3: Factoring in Fitting Wastage

When installing flooring, additional material is needed to account for cutting, pattern matching, and unforeseen errors. The amount of wastage varies depending on the type of flooring and installation pattern:

Straight Lay Planks: Add 7-10% extra.
Herringbone or Chevron: Add 15-18% extra due to increased cutting.
Mansion Weave or Complex Patterns: Add 18-20% extra as these designs involve more cuts and precise fitting.