Understanding Carpet Calculations
Calculating the amount of carpet needed ensures you purchase the right quantity for your project, minimizing waste and costs. This calculator considers room dimensions, waste factor, and seam allowance for accurate results.
Waste factor accounts for cutting and fitting, while seam allowance is needed for larger rooms where multiple carpet pieces must be joined. Carpets are typically sold in square yards (1 sq yd = 9 sq ft).
Carpet Requirements Comparison
| Room Size | Carpet Needed (sq yd) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 10 x 12 ft | 15-17 | Small bedroom or office |
| 12 x 16 ft | 24-27 | Medium living room |
| 20 x 20 ft | 50-56 | Large family room |
How to Use the Carpet Calculator
- Measure the width of the room in feet.
- Measure the length of the room in feet.
- Enter a waste factor (typically 10-15%) to account for cutting and fitting.
- Enter a seam allowance (typically 5-10%) for rooms wider than the carpet roll (usually 12 ft).
- Click "Calculate Carpet" to see the amount needed in square yards and square feet.
Carpet Needs Chart
Carpet requirements for different room sizes (with 10% waste).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to include seam allowance for small rooms?
No, seam allowance is only needed if the room width exceeds the carpet roll width (typically 12 ft).
Why include a waste factor?
A 10-15% waste factor accounts for cuts, fitting errors, and pattern matching to ensure you have enough carpet.