Square Footage Calculator

Calculate square footage, square meters, waste allowance, and estimated material costs for any room or outdoor space.

Author: Count Loft TeamLast updated:

Square Footage Calculator Calculator Interface

Total Room Area300 sq ft27.87 m²
With Waste Allowance:330 sq ft
Estimated Material Cost:$1,485.00
Unit Conversion:1 m² = 10.764 sq ft

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Measure the room boundaries: Use a tape measure to record length and width in feet.
  2. Select waste percentage: Add 10% for flooring cuts, seams, and trimming waste.
  3. Optional material pricing: Input unit cost per square foot to see total material purchase estimates.

Formula and Calculation Steps

Area (sq ft)      = Length (ft) × Width (ft)
Area (m²)         = Area (sq ft) × 0.092903
Total with Waste  = Area (sq ft) × (1 + Waste% ÷ 100)
Estimated Cost    = Total with Waste × Cost per Sq Ft

Worked Examples and Reference Table

DimensionsSquare FootageSquare MetersWith 10% Waste
10 ft × 10 ft100 sq ft9.29 m²110 sq ft
12 ft × 14 ft168 sq ft15.61 m²185 sq ft
15 ft × 20 ft300 sq ft27.87 m²330 sq ft
20 ft × 25 ft500 sq ft46.45 m²550 sq ft

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you calculate square footage?

Multiply the length of the room or area in feet by the width in feet: Length (ft) × Width (ft) = Area (sq ft).

How do you convert square feet to square meters?

Multiply square feet by 0.092903, or divide square feet by 10.764. For example, 100 sq ft is approximately 9.29 sq meters.

How do I calculate square footage of an L-shaped room?

Divide the L-shaped space into two separate rectangular sections. Calculate the square footage of each section individually, then add the two totals together.

What is the standard waste factor for flooring materials?

Most contractors recommend adding 10% for standard rectangular rooms, or 15% for rooms with angled walls, closets, or diagonal tile patterns.

How do you calculate total material cost from square footage?

Multiply the total square footage (including waste allowance) by the unit price per square foot of your selected flooring, turf, or drywall.