How to measure a room for carpet

Building or remodeling a home can be a busy process. There are a lot of variables to consider as you near the point of actually installing a floor. Before the time comes to install your carpet flooring, you will need to measure the area. Learning how to measure a room for carpet may sound difficult, but the process is simple. Understanding the process can ensure that you make accurate measurements and purchase the right amount of carpet material.


Steps on how to measure a room for carpet


  • Gather tools — There are three main tools that can make the measuring process easier. The first is a measuring tape, which is needed to take the main measurements. You can also use other measuring tools, such as a laser distance measurer. It can also help to keep a pen and paper for jotting down the measurements as they are taken. The third tool is a calculator. This can help in multiplying the measurements to figure out the total area of a room. 


  • Measure length and width — Using your measuring tool, measure the length and width of the room. It is important to measure from the widest and longest parts of a room. Closets and alcoves should also be included in this measurement. Understanding how to measure a room can be simple, but accuracy is important. If you use a measuring tape, remember to extend it until it is flat against the wall on either end.

  • Multiply the numbers — Once you have the length and width, multiply these two numbers together. The result will be the rough square footage of the room. If the room is 10 feet wide and 10 feet long, then the total square footage will be 100 square feet.

  • Consider variables — Now you should have a rough figure for square footage, but this does not account for other potential variables. Rooms come in many irregular shapes that may not be fully accounted for by the square footage calculation. It can help to add an extra 10% to the calculated square footage. This can ensure that you have enough carpet for the whole space. It is also important to consider stairs and hallways. These should be measured separately from the space they are connected to.

Superior Wood Floors & Tile can help carpet your rooms


Are you looking for a trusted flooring provider in the Tulsa, Oklahoma, area? Superior Wood Floors & Tile has provided the local community with high-quality products since 1999. Now that you know how to measure a room for carpet, you can find a range of top carpet brands and materials online and in our showroom.

Contact our team today to learn more about all the carpet flooring options we offer or to request a free estimate.