
How to Measure for Carpet
To measure for a carpet, measure each area individually following the steps listed below. Figuring carpet area means multiplying width times length for each area and adding them together. You’ll follow slightly different methods for rooms and stairs.
How to Measure a Room or Hallway for Carpeting Installation
Area = Length x Width.

- Measure the length using the distance from one wall to the opposite wall.
- Measure the width from wall to wall.
- Add 2 to 4 inches to each side. This accounts for waste, doors and slanting walls. It’s easy to cut a little off for a perfect fit, but it’s impossible to add without creating unsightly seams.
- Multiply the length times the width or enter those into the calculator above. This is your total square footage for that room.
- Repeat this process for each room.