Square Footage Calculator - Calculate Area and Perimeter

Square footage is calculated by multiplying the length of a space by its width. For example, a room that is 10 feet long and 12 feet wide has 120 square feet of area (10 × 12 = 120). This formula works for any rectangular or square space.

Area measures the total space inside a shape (measured in square feet), while perimeter measures the distance around the outside of the shape (measured in linear feet). Area tells you how much floor space you have, while perimeter tells you how much border material you need.

Measure the length and width of each room separately, then calculate the square footage for each space. Add 10-15% extra for waste, cutting, and pattern matching. For irregular shapes, break them down into smaller rectangles and calculate each section separately.

You'll need a tape measure or laser measuring tool to get accurate dimensions. For larger properties, a wheel measurer or professional measuring tools may be helpful. Always measure from wall to wall and include closets and built-in features in your measurements.

Most experts recommend adding 10-15% extra material for waste, cutting errors, and future repairs. For diagonal installations or complex patterns, you may need 15-20% extra. Consider the skill level of the installer and the complexity of the job when determining your waste factor.