Measure Carpet

Read these instructions carefully and you should be able to measure carpet for most rooms with no trouble. A more detailed version is also available for hall/stairs/landings, L shapes and split levels

Measure carpet to the widest points

A simple room will only require the length by the width - measure A - B and C - D.

Allow an extra 10 centimetres on each measurement - walls can waver over the course of 4 or 5 metres and the fitter will need something to cut in. Measure too tight and you'll be left short of the skirting board.

TIP: Remember - even if you measure up yourself, you may need to get the company whose quote you accept to check before ordering.

Doorways - one reason why professionals don't let you measure carpet

Most people miss doorways. The carpet will finish underneath the door, not against the skirting board - that will typically mean about an extra 15 centimetres. Make sure your measurement reaches those doors!

Fireplaces and units

Forget fireplaces - you will be cutting the fireplace or units OUT - it won't add anything to what you have to buy. Measure carpet into the alcoves as they are the furthest point of the length or width.

Cupboards - wardrobes

If it is going to need carpet inside, then you must include your cupboard. Typically people usually only measure carpet for cupboards if it won't mean spending extra money (they just leave the existing carpet in there!)

Measure carpet for L Shapes - lounge diners; halls; landings

It is common to find lounges and dining rooms requiring L shape measurements. Remember you will have two lengths and two widths as in the diagram.

It helps to bear in mind that rooms will have to come out of the same width if they are to colour match and the piles will have to run the same way.

The four measurements are A - B, C - D, E - F and G - H. There will be provision in the form to indicate L-shapes.

Remember - whilst a landing is also an L shape, it takes special consideration.

 

Hall/stairs/landings; split levels; diagonal angles; housefulls

It will be more difficult to measure complicated areas such as hall/stairs/landings (especially with winder steps). If you have the confidence to measure a stairway or complicated area yourself - refer to the detailed measuring page.