Measuring for wallpaper correctly is the most important step in any wallpaper project. Get it right and you'll order exactly what you need; get it wrong and you'll either run short mid-project or waste money on excess rolls. The good news: measuring for wallpaper is straightforward when you follow a clear process. This guide walks you through every step.
What You'll Need
- A metal tape measure (fabric tape measures can stretch and give inaccurate readings)
- A pencil and notepad
- A calculator
Step 1: Measure the Width of Each Wall
Measure the width of each wall you plan to wallpaper in metres (or feet and inches). Measure at the widest point — walls are not always perfectly uniform. Write down each measurement.
Step 2: Measure the Height of Each Wall
Measure the height of each wall from floor to ceiling. Measure at the tallest point. If your ceiling is not level, use the tallest measurement. Write down each measurement.
Step 3: Calculate the Total Wall Area
For each wall, multiply the width by the height to get the area in square metres (or square feet). Add together the areas of all the walls you plan to wallpaper to get the total wall area.
Example: A room with four walls, each 3.5m wide and 2.4m high: 3.5 × 2.4 = 8.4m² per wall × 4 walls = 33.6m² total.
Step 4: Subtract Doors and Windows (Optional)
You can subtract the area of large doors and windows from your total, but many wallpaper professionals recommend not doing this — the offcuts from around doors and windows are often needed for pattern matching. If you do subtract, only subtract openings larger than 1m².
Step 5: Account for Pattern Repeat
If your wallpaper has a pattern repeat, you'll need extra wallpaper to allow for matching the pattern at each seam. The larger the pattern repeat, the more extra wallpaper you'll need.
- No pattern repeat (plain or texture): No extra needed.
- Small pattern repeat (under 15cm): Add 10% extra.
- Medium pattern repeat (15–30cm): Add 15–20% extra.
- Large pattern repeat (over 30cm): Add 20–30% extra.
See our How to Calculate How Much Wallpaper You Need guide for the full calculation.
Step 6: Add a Safety Margin
Always add at least 10% to your final calculation as a safety margin — to account for measuring errors, trimming, and any mistakes during installation. It's always better to have a little extra than to run short.
Measuring for Specific Situations
Measuring for an Accent Wall
Measure only the wall you plan to wallpaper. Width × height = area. Add pattern repeat allowance and 10% safety margin.
Measuring a Room with a Sloped Ceiling
For rooms with sloped ceilings (attic rooms, loft conversions), measure the height at the tallest point and use that measurement for the entire wall. This ensures you have enough wallpaper for the full height.
Measuring Around a Fireplace or Alcove
Measure the full wall width including the fireplace or alcove, then subtract the area of any sections you won't be wallpapering (e.g., inside a deep alcove). When in doubt, include the full area.
Using Our Wallpaper Calculator
Once you have your wall measurements, use our wallpaper calculator at checkout to determine exactly how many rolls you need. Enter your wall dimensions and the calculator will account for the pattern repeat of your chosen wallpaper. See our How to Calculate How Much Wallpaper You Need guide for more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I measure in metres or feet?
Either works — just be consistent throughout your calculation. Our wallpaper calculator accepts both metric and imperial measurements.
What if my walls aren't perfectly square?
Measure at the widest and tallest points and use those measurements. This ensures you have enough wallpaper even if the walls are slightly out of square.
How do I measure for wallpaper on a staircase?
Staircase walls are more complex to measure because of the varying height. Measure the width of the wall and the height at several points — the tallest, the shortest, and the middle. Use the tallest measurement for your calculation, and add a generous safety margin (at least 20%).
Ready to Order?
Once you have your measurements, browse our full wallpaper collection and use our calculator at checkout. If you're unsure, order a sample first to check the color and pattern in your room. See our Wallpaper Sample Buying Guide.