Measuring Your Room for Flooring – Step by Step
Are you thinking about refreshing your home with new flooring? Or perhaps just got the keys to your new flat and want to update the interior. Whether you’re eyeing that sleek hardwood floor, luxurious carpet, or waterproof stylish vinyl, getting the right amount of flooring material starts with an accurate measurement of your room. This guide is tailored especially for beginners and will walk you through the process of measuring your space like a pro. By the end, you’ll be ready to order your flooring with confidence—no overages or shortfalls!
Step 1: What You’ll Need
Before you begin, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tape Measure: A traditional tape measure will work just fine, but for even easier measurement, consider a digital laser measuring tool. It can help you reach longer distances and read measurements more accurately.
Notation Tools: While pen and paper are reliable, using your smartphone to take notes or snap pictures of the measurements directly can make the process smoother and reduce the chance of losing your measurements.
Calculator: though this is optional, it’s not recommended to rely on mental math for this task—use a calculator to ensure accuracy. Most smartphones come equipped with a calculator app, which is perfect for crunching those numbers on the go. If you're confident in times tables then by all means do the calculations using your mental maths.
Step 2: Measure the Room
Measuring a room sounds straightforward, but a few tips can prevent common errors:
For Rectangle Rooms: Measure the length and the width in metres, ensuring you start from the walls' edges. If using a digital tool, simply point and shoot from one side to the opposite side.
Irregular Shaped Rooms: Break the space into manageable rectangular or square sections (see example below in step 4), measure each section, and then add the areas together.
Using the Right Units: Stick to centimetres and metres since flooring in the UK is typically sold by the square metre.
Step 3: Double Check Your Measurements
A wise carpenter once said, “Measure twice, cut once” demonstrating that accuracy is key, so always double-check your measurements:
Repeat Measurements: Measure twice before recording your final numbers to ensure there are no discrepancies or mistakes.
Consistency is Crucial: Always use the same unit of measurement to avoid conversion errors later (cm/m).
Step 4: Calculate the Area
Once you have your room's dimensions, you can calculate the area:
Simple Rectangles: Multiply the length by the width.
Complex Shapes: Add the area of each section together. For example, an L-shaped room would require calculating each leg of the ‘L’ and then summing those areas.
Step 5: Factor in Wastage
To ensure you have enough flooring to complete the job without interruptions, add 10% to your total area:
Why Wastage Matters: This extra allows for cuts at the edges of the room and minor imperfections in the flooring.
Adjusting for Complexity: In rooms with complex shapes or when using intricate patterns like herringbone, consider increasing the wastage percentage to accommodate more cuts.
Quick Tips
Use a Helper: Measuring large spaces can be easier with an extra pair of hands.
Check Floor Level: Ensure the floor is level; if not, this might affect how much flooring is needed.
Consider Professional Help: If you're unsure about measuring yourself, hiring a professional can be a good investment.
There you have it, a simple guide to measuring your room for new flooring. With these steps, you can confidently calculate how much flooring you’ll need to transform your space. Remember, taking the time to measure accurately at the start can save you both time and money in the long run. Ready to find the perfect flooring for your home? Dive into our extensive collection and pick the best match for your newly measured space!
FAQ’s
How do I measure my space so I know how much flooring to order?
To accurately measure your space, start by drawing a rough sketch of the room. Measure the length and width in meters and multiply these to get the square meterage. Add 10% to account for cuts and waste. For irregular shapes, divide the room into manageable squares or rectangles and sum their areas.
What’s the difference between solid wood, engineered wood, laminate and vinyl flooring in terms of durability and appearance?
Solid wood flooring offers a classic and timeless look, with great durability and the option to sand and refinish over time. Engineered wood provides a similar appearance to solid wood but with better resistance to changes in humidity and temperature. Laminate flooring is highly durable, scratch-resistant, and offers a variety of designs, including realistic wood visuals at a lower cost. Vinyl flooring, including LVT and SPC, is waterproof, making it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens, and comes in a wide range of designs.
Why are some packs shorter than others in my flooring packs?
Particularly with engineered wood floors, to help achieve a natural staggered layout, manufacturers often include a percentage of pre-cut split boards (approximately 20%). This is normal and considered industry standard for fixed-length products.
Are your flooring products suitable for homes with pets or children?
Yes. Our range includes durable and easy-to-clean options like laminate and vinyl flooring, ideal for busy households. Laminate floors offer great scratch resistance, while vinyl provides waterproof features and resilience against daily wear and tear. Both are excellent choices for areas frequently used by pets and kids, combining practicality with style. For advice on selecting the best flooring for your needs, call us or drop us a message and we’ll be happy to advise.
What’s the difference between stick-down LVT and Rigid SPC?
Stick-down Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a flexible, water-resistant flooring option that requires adhesive for installation. It replicates the look of wood and stone and is ideal for areas where precision installation is needed, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It’s a great choice for those who want a secure, permanent fit that withstands daily wear.
Rigid Luxury Vinyl (SPC) is a type of LVT but with a rigid core made from stone polymer composite. SPC is more resistant to dents and warping and comes with a built-in 1mm underlay for added comfort and sound insulation. It’s perfect for high-traffic or moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Unlike stick-down LVT, SPC uses a click-lock system, making it easier to install and even more durable under changing conditions.
Both options are water-resistant and offer stylish wood and stone finishes, but SPC provides enhanced strength and resilience for more demanding spaces.