Carpet Size Calculator
Calculate how much carpet you need for any room with accurate measurements
Calculate Carpet Requirements
Your Carpet Calculation Results
Room Area
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Carpet Needed (with waste)
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Linear Feet Needed
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Waste Amount
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Estimated Cost
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Quick Tip: Always add ten to fifteen percent waste factor for carpet installation. This accounts for cutting, seaming, pattern matching, and future repairs. Complex rooms with many angles require higher waste factors.
Standard Carpet Roll Widths
| Roll Width | Availability | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 feet | Most common | Standard rooms, hallways | Widely available, best pricing |
| 13.5 feet | Moderately common | Wider rooms, fewer seams | Reduces seaming in medium rooms |
| 15 feet | Less common | Large rooms, seamless installs | May cost more, limited styles |
| 6 feet | Specialty | Stairs, small areas | For narrow applications |
Carpet Tile Sizes
| Tile Size | Coverage Per Tile | Tiles Per Box | Box Coverage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18" x 18" | 2.25 sq ft | 20 tiles | 45 sq ft | Small to medium rooms |
| 24" x 24" | 4 sq ft | 12 tiles | 48 sq ft | Medium to large rooms |
| 36" x 36" | 9 sq ft | 6 tiles | 54 sq ft | Large commercial spaces |
| 12" x 48" | 4 sq ft | 12 planks | 48 sq ft | Modern linear patterns |
Carpet Cost by Type
| Carpet Type | Price Range (per sq ft) | Durability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester | $1.50 - $3.00 | Good | Bedrooms, low traffic areas |
| Olefin/Polypropylene | $1.00 - $2.50 | Good | Basements, indoor/outdoor |
| Nylon | $2.50 - $5.00 | Excellent | High traffic, living areas |
| Wool | $5.00 - $12.00 | Excellent | Luxury spaces, formal rooms |
| Triexta | $3.00 - $6.00 | Very Good | Families, pet owners |
| Berber | $2.00 - $4.00 | Very Good | High traffic, offices |
| Frieze | $2.50 - $5.00 | Good | Casual spaces, hiding footprints |
| Plush/Velvet | $3.00 - $7.00 | Fair | Formal rooms, low traffic |
Installation Cost Breakdown
| Service | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Carpet removal | $0.50 - $1.50/sq ft | Remove and dispose of old carpet |
| Subfloor preparation | $1.00 - $3.00/sq ft | Level, repair, or replace subfloor |
| Padding/underlay | $0.50 - $1.50/sq ft | Quality affects comfort and lifespan |
| Installation labor | $1.00 - $3.00/sq ft | Professional installation |
| Furniture moving | $0.25 - $0.75/sq ft | Move and replace furniture |
| Stair installation | $15 - $35/step | More complex than flat areas |
| Transition strips | $3 - $8 per strip | Between different flooring types |
| Total installation | $3.00 - $8.00/sq ft | Average complete installation |
Waste Factor Guidelines
| Room Complexity | Waste Factor | Examples | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple rectangular | 5% | Basic bedroom, square room | Minimal cutting required |
| Standard room | 10% | Most residential rooms | Standard industry recommendation |
| Pattern matching | 15% | Patterned carpets | Extra material for alignment |
| Complex layout | 15-20% | Multiple angles, alcoves | More cuts and seams needed |
| Stairs included | 15-20% | Stairs with landings | Difficult measurements and cuts |
| Multiple rooms | 10-15% | Several connected spaces | Seaming between areas |
| L-shaped room | 15% | Non-rectangular layouts | Irregular cutting patterns |
| Closets included | 10-12% | Room with multiple closets | Additional cutting around openings |
Room Size Quick Reference
| Room Type | Typical Size | Square Footage | Carpet Needed (10% waste) | Estimated Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small bedroom | 10' x 10' | 100 sq ft | 110 sq ft | $275 - $550 |
| Medium bedroom | 12' x 12' | 144 sq ft | 158 sq ft | $395 - $790 |
| Master bedroom | 14' x 16' | 224 sq ft | 246 sq ft | $615 - $1,230 |
| Living room | 15' x 20' | 300 sq ft | 330 sq ft | $825 - $1,650 |
| Dining room | 12' x 14' | 168 sq ft | 185 sq ft | $463 - $925 |
| Office/den | 10' x 12' | 120 sq ft | 132 sq ft | $330 - $660 |
| Hallway (per linear ft) | 3' wide | 3 sq ft/ft | 3.3 sq ft/ft | $8 - $16 per foot |
| Stairs (13 steps) | 3' wide | 35 sq ft | 42 sq ft | $300 - $600 |
*Based on $2.50-$5.00 per square foot material cost only
Carpet Maintenance Tips
| Task | Frequency | Purpose | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vacuuming | 1-2 times weekly | Remove dirt and debris | Free (equipment cost only) |
| Spot cleaning | As needed | Address spills immediately | $5-$15 (cleaning products) |
| Deep cleaning | Every 12-18 months | Remove deep dirt and stains | $100-$300 (professional) |
| Carpet protector | After cleaning | Stain and soil resistance | $0.25-$0.50 per sq ft |
| Professional deodorizing | Annually or as needed | Remove odors | $50-$150 |
| Pad replacement | Every 10-15 years | Restore cushioning | $0.50-$1.50 per sq ft |
| High traffic area care | Monthly | Prevent wear patterns | Included in regular cleaning |
Important Disclaimer
This Carpet Size Calculator provides estimates based on standard industry guidelines and typical installation practices. Actual carpet requirements may vary based on room configuration, carpet roll width, pattern matching needs, and installation method.
Results serve as planning tools only and should not replace professional measurements. Always consult with professional carpet installers for accurate measurements and quotes. Waste factors vary by room complexity and installer experience.
We make no guarantees regarding accuracy of calculations or cost estimates. Users assume all responsibility for purchasing decisions. Carpet prices vary significantly by brand, quality, style, and retailer. Installation costs depend on location and contractor rates.
Always measure your room carefully, consider subfloor condition, and factor in removal and disposal costs for existing flooring. Check for available rebates, promotions, and warranty options when purchasing carpet.
How to Choose the Right Carpet Size for Any Room
Imagine stepping into a room where the rug feels like a plush landscape beneath your feet. The right carpet size can transform how your home looks and feels, acting as a key piece that ties together the aesthetics and warmth of your living space. Whether you have a big living room or a small dorm, the right size matters. This guide will help you find the best carpet size for your space.
Understanding Standard Carpet Sizes
Before we get into tips for each room, it’s helpful to know the standard carpet sizes. You’ll find everything from small accent rugs to large area carpets. Standard sizes are 200×300 cm or 240×340 cm, and in the U.S., 4×6, 5×7, 6×9, and 8×10 feet are popular.
When you shop, you’ll see that carpet size charts make it easier to picture your options. Many stores also offer custom sizes, so you can get precisely what you need for your space. If you like modular carpets, carpet tiles usually come in 18×18 or 24×24 inches.
Living Room Area Rugs: Setting the Foundation
A living room carpet should help anchor your space. The best size depends on how you arrange your furniture. For most living rooms, a 5×7 rug works well. It marks the seating area without making the room feel crowded. As a helpful exercise, try using painter’s tape to outline a 5×7 area on the floor before you buy. This approach allows you to visualize how the rug will fit and lets you test the flow of movement around furniture. This way, the abstract idea of sizing turns into a practical trial run, ensuring the perfect fit for your living area.
When choosing a living room carpet, try to have it extend at least 18 inches beyond your main furniture. A 6×9 rug is a good option for larger rooms or for a big sectional. Make sure the front legs of your sofa, chairs, and coffee table are on the rug for balance. The carpet size in the room depends on your layout. Smaller rooms may need a 4×6 rug, while open spaces often look best with an 8×10 or larger. Aim for a look that feels both comfortable and pulled together.
Dining Room Rugs: Proportions Matter
A common question homeowners ask is, “What size carpet should go under the dining table?” A simple guideline is to choose a carpet that extends at least 36 inches beyond the table’s edges on all sides. This ensures that chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out, enhancing stability and ease of movement. For larger tables, consider using a 6×9 or 8×10 rug to maintain this principle. The goal is to keep chair legs on the carpet while you’re sitting at the table.
Think about the size of your dining room, too. The carpet should leave a border on all sides, with 12 to 18 inches of floor showing around the edges. Imagine your rug as a picture mat that sets off the artwork of your table. This visual image helps keep the space balanced and prevents the carpet from taking over the room. For a king-size bed, use a large area rug that frames the bed nicely.
For a king-size bed, rugs are usually between 5×7 and 6×9, depending on your room and furniture. Designers suggest choosing a rug that goes 2 to 3 feet beyond the sides and foot of the bed. This way, you step onto soft carpet instead of a cold floor.
For queen beds, a 5×7 rug is usually just right. It gives the room a cozy feel without making it feel crowded. Carpet size works well for most dorm configurations, adding warmth to institutional spaces without consuming precious square footage.
For hallways and entryways, the right carpet runner helps your home feel connected. Standard runners are 2.5 to 3 feet wide and about 6 feet long for short halls, or 12 feet or more for longer ones. To enhance this connectivity, stand at the entryway and note where your gaze first lands. This simple act of observing the natural sightlines can help determine the ideal runner length that visually links spaces, creating a cohesive flow throughout your home.
Sectionals: For large sectionals, a 6×9 or 8×10 rug usually works well. This allows most of the sectional to sit on the carpet and keeps the room looking balanced. cations
Understanding carpet padding sizes helps you achieve better installations and longer-lasting carpets. Padding usually comes in 6-foot or 12-foot rolls that can be cut to fit your carpet.
If you use carpet tiles, standard sizes are 18×18 or 24×24 inches. These sizes let you create flexible, modular designs.
Installation Considerations
If you order a carpet cut to size and bound, double-check your measurements. Many companies offer this service and provide finished edges without extra trim. Also, make sure you know which staple size you need. According to Carpet Professor, the most common carpet padding thickness for residential carpets is 7/16 inch, and you can choose either a 6-pound or 8-pound density. Custom sizes are also available for special requirements.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
People sometimes overlook carpet beetles, which are a maintenance concern. Knowing your carpet type helps you protect it. If you shop internationally, check standard carpet sizes in centimeters to make sure you get the right fit.
If you’re considering indoor-outdoor carpets cut to size, they usually follow the same sizing rules as indoor carpets. The main difference is that the material is designed to withstand outdoor conditions.
Special Considerations
If you are choosing a rug for a unique purpose, like a game table area measuring about 3 by 9 feet, you will need to follow different size guidelines than standard room rugs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpet Sizing
Q: What’s the difference between the carpet size for a living room and a dining room?
A: Living room carpets typically anchor the seating area and can be slightly more flexible in size, while dining room carpets must be proportional to the table with chairs sitting fully on the rug. Dining room rugs should be larger than the room itself.
A: Living room carpets typically anchor the seating area and can be slightly more flexible in size, while dining room carpets must be proportional to the table with chairs sitting fully on the rug. Dining room rugs should be larger than the room itself.
Q: Can I use a carpet size for a queen bed in a guest room with a king bed?
A: While technically possible, it’s not ideal. A carpet size for a king-size bed should extend further on the sides for visual balance and comfort. Consider upgrading from a 5×7 to at least a 6×9 for better proportion.
A: While technically possible, it’s not ideal. A carpet size for a king-size bed should extend further on the sides for visual balance and comfort. Consider upgrading from a 5×7 to at least a 6×9 for better proportion.
Q: How do I know what size carpet for a dorm room will fit my space?
A: Measure your room’s floor space and furniture placement. Most dorm rooms work well with a 4×6 or 5×7 carpet size. Leave 12-18 inches of flooring visible around the edges to maintain visual balance and make the space feel larger.
A: Measure your room’s floor space and furniture placement. Most dorm rooms work well with a 4×6 or 5×7 carpet size. Leave 12-18 inches of flooring visible around the edges to maintain visual balance and make the space feel larger.
Q: Are custom carpet sizes significantly more expensive?
A: Custom carpet sizes and carpet cut to size and bound services vary in price depending on your carpet choice and local availability. Contact local installers for quotes on custom carpet roll size options.
A: Custom carpet sizes and carpet cut to size and bound services vary in price depending on your carpet choice and local availability. Contact local installers for quotes on custom carpet roll size options.
Q: What size staples for carpet installation should I use?
A: Standard staple size for carpet is typically 5/8 inch for most residential installations, though staple size for carpet can vary. Consult with your professional installer for your specific subfloor type.
A: Standard staple size for carpet is typically 5/8 inch for most residential installations, though staple size for carpet can vary. Consult with your professional installer for your specific subfloor type.
Q: How do carpet padding roll size and carpet padding sizes affect my choice?
A: Carpet padding roll size comes in standard 6 and 12-foot widths. Your installer will cut carpet padding sizes to match your exact carpet dimensions. Quality padding extends carpet life and improves comfort.
A: Carpet padding roll size comes in standard 6 and 12-foot widths. Your installer will cut carpet padding sizes to match your exact carpet dimensions. Quality padding extends carpet life and improves comfort.
Q: Can an indoor-outdoor carpet cut to size work for my patio?
A: Absolutely. Indoor outdoor carpet cut to size and bound services provide durable options for covered patios and outdoor spaces. These follow the same sizing conventions as interior carpets.
A: Absolutely. Indoor outdoor carpet cut to size and bound services provide durable options for covered patios and outdoor spaces. These follow the same sizing conventions as interior carpets.
Q: What’s the ideal carpet size for sectional furniture?
A: For a carpet size for a sectional, aim for a 6×9 or 8×10 minimum. Your sectional should have at least the front cushions and legs anchored on the carpet for visual cohesion.
A: For a carpet size for a sectional, aim for a 6×9 or 8×10 minimum. Your sectional should have at least the front cushions and legs anchored on the carpet for visual cohesion.
Q: How does a carpet size chart help with choosing dimensions?
A: A carpet size chart provides visual comparisons of standard carpet sizes in cm and feet, helping you understand proportions before measuring. Most retailers provide these tools on their websites.
A: A carpet size chart provides visual comparisons of standard carpet sizes in cm and feet, helping you understand proportions before measuring. Most retailers provide these tools on their websites.
Q: What’s the best size carpet runner for my hallway?
A: Standard carpet runner sizes are typically 2.5-3 feet wide. Measure your hallway length and choose a runner that leaves 6-12 inches of flooring visible on each end for visual balance.
A: Standard carpet runner sizes are typically 2.5-3 feet wide. Measure your hallway length and choose a runner that leaves 6-12 inches of flooring visible on each end for visual balance.
Helpful Resources and External Links
For more detailed information on carpet selection and sizing, check out these trusted resources:
Complete rug size guide for every room – https://www.ikea.com/au/en/rooms/living-room/how-to/choosing-the-right-size-rug-for-your-space-pub4eafcf30/
Guide to choosing the right area rug size for your space – https://zennovacarpet.com/blogs/news/how-to-choose-the-right-area-rug-size-for-your-space
Rug size and placement guide with practical tips – https://www.rugsdirect.co.uk/blogs/blog/rug-size-guide
How to choose the right rug sizes with tips on room layout – https://www.wayfair.com/sca/ideas-and-advice/guides/how-to-choose-the-right-rug-sizes-T456
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right carpet size can be simple. Measure your room and furniture, check a carpet size chart, and make sure your rug helps define and anchor your space while keeping everything in proportion. Whether you’re decorating a big living room, setting up a dining area, or making a dorm room feel cozy, the right carpet size matters. Think about your room layout, where your furniture goes, and what you like best.
Your home deserves a carpet that fits well and enhances the space. With this guide, you’re ready to choose a carpet you’ll enjoy for years to come.