GUIDE
How to Measure Square Footage
Square footage is the area of a surface measured in square feet. For a simple rectangle, the calculation is straightforward, but accurate measuring matters when you are ordering flooring, tile, carpet, paint or landscape materials.
Measure length and width
Measure the longest dimension in feet and the perpendicular dimension in feet. Multiply the two numbers.
For example, a 12 ft by 10 ft room has 120 square feet of floor area.
What if the room is irregular?
Divide the space into smaller rectangles. Calculate each rectangle separately and add the results. This is usually more reliable than trying to average the dimensions of an irregular room.
Plan for material waste
The square footage of the surface is not always the same as the quantity you should buy. Flooring, tile and similar products often require extra material for cuts and mistakes. Use the product's installation guidance when choosing the allowance.