How to Measure Your Room for Flooring

Planning a new floor? Before you can order laminate or vinyl planks, you’ll need to know exactly how much to buy. Measuring your room correctly ensures you don’t waste money — or run short when it matters most. Let’s break it down step by step. ✨




1️⃣ Grab Your Tools 🧰


You’ll need:


  • A tape measure 📏
  • A notepad & pen 📝
  • A calculator 🔢




2️⃣ Measure the Length & Width ➡️⬆️


  • For a square or rectangular room:
  • Measure the length and width in meters.
  • Example: 5m x 4m = 20m².
  • For odd-shaped rooms:
  • Divide into smaller rectangles, measure each, then add them together ➕.




3️⃣ Don’t Forget Nooks & Hallways 🚪


Measure alcoves, corners, and any adjoining spaces where the flooring will continue. This ensures consistency in colour and finish throughout your home.




4️⃣ Add Waste Allowance ♻️


Always add 10% extra to your total for cutting, mistakes, and pattern matching.

Example: 20m² + 10% = 22m² needed.




5️⃣ Double-Check Before Ordering ✅


Re-measure to confirm your numbers. Small errors can cost time and money.




📌 Pro Tip: Ask the Experts


At Picasso Laminate Flooring, our team can help check your measurements before you place your order. This way, you’ll have the right amount — without the stress! 💡

Laminate flooring installation in a modern residential home
By Digby Hutton December 28, 2025
Discover how to choose the best laminate flooring for your home. Learn about durability, thickness, styles, and expert tips for every room.
Modern open-plan living room with oak laminate flooring, showing how laminate flooring improves home
By Digby Hutton December 21, 2025
Discover how laminate flooring can increase home value, improve resale appeal, and offer a cost-effective upgrade for South African homes.