How much waste should I allow?

5–10% for a straight lay, and 15–20% for diagonal patterns.

What about awkward corners and alcoves?

Measure them separately and add them to the total area.

Yes, from the same lot, so colours match.

Enter the room length and width and choose a waste allowance to see how much flooring to buy.

Length

Width

Wastage Allowance: 10%

Straight lay: 5–10% · Diagonal lay: 15–20%

Calculate flooring material needed based on room area — for laminate, hardwood, tile, and vinyl flooring projects.

Material = room area × (1 + waste%). Waste factor: 5-10% for straight layouts, 15% for diagonal.

Common questions about Flooring Calculator

We use the standard published formula for this calculation, and we show the working so you can check it.

Spotted a mistake? Tell us and we'll check it within a few days. See how we check our calculators.

DIY disclaimer

Estimates only. Buy a little extra, measure your actual space, and check product labels and local building rules.