Wallpaper Calculator: How Much Wallpaper Do I Need?
To calculate your wallpaper needs, you'll need to find the square footage of each wall you want to cover.
You'll also need to know the size of the wallpaper roll.
Patterns may require extra wallpaper to match up.
Ready to transform a room from "meh" to "wow?" Wallpaper can help. But first, you need to find the answer to "how much wallpaper do I need?" Nothing is more annoying than running out of wallpaper in the middle of the project, so use this wallpaper calculator to get the right amount.
How to Calculate Wallpaper Needs
To figure out how much wallpaper you'll need, make note of how large each roll is and the total square footage of the walls you want to cover, minus any openings such as windows and doors:
Number of Rolls Needed = Square Footage of Wall 1 + Square Footage of Wall 2 + Square Footage of Wall 3 + Square Footage of Wall 4 – Square Footage of Any Openings / Square Footage per Roll
How to Measure for Wallpaper
To measure for wallpaper, use a steel measuring tape to measure the height and width of each wall you want to cover, not including baseboards, moldings, and other areas you don’t want to cover.
If the wall has large openings, such as a door, window, or fireplace, also measure the height and width of those, then subtract their square footage from the wall's total square footage. You don't have to worry about subtracting small openings, such as outlets or light switches.
If you're going to hang paper with a pattern, you'll most likely need a bit extra to allow the pattern to align and to keep the wall from looking crooked. Add about 10% of the total square footage to your wallpaper needs.
Who to Hire to Hang Wallpaper
It can be worth it to hire a professional to hang wallpaper, as working with an experienced wallpaper installer can help you avoid buying too much (or too little) and ensure the finished project looks great.
Your best bet is to work with someone who specializes in installing wallpaper. If you can't find a local installer, another option is to hire a handyperson. Just make sure the handyperson has experience working with wallpaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many types of wallpaper exist, from removable peel-and-stick options to more permanent options that involve pasting. You can also find wallpaper that you can paint over, wallpaper with a texture, and wallpaper made from various materials, such as vinyl. Some types of wallpaper are washable, which can be a great option for kitchens or if your household has small children.
You may end up with extra wallpaper once your project is finished. Hang on to that wallpaper, as you may need to use it to patch up areas that get damaged later on. If you have a lot of excess wallpaper, try getting creative with it. You can use it to line the inside of a cabinet or drawers, for example.
Wallpaper costs depend on several factors, such as the type, who's installing it, and how much you need. Usually, peel-and-stick wallpaper costs less than more permanent options. If you DIY, you can also expect your costs to be lower compared to working with a professional. The average cost to install wallpaper is $560, but total costs can range from $175 to $1,500.
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