Carpet Calculator
Calculate how much carpet you need for any room. Get accurate square footage, padding requirements, and cost estimates.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Enter Your Measurements
ft
ft
Quick:
Multi-toned, hides dirt, versatile
Most common, good for bedrooms (7/16")
Enable cost estimate
Results
22
sq yd needed
(198 sq ft)
Room Area:180 sq ft (20 sq yd)
Base Carpet:180 sq ft
Extra for Waste:+18 sq ft
Padding Needed:22 sq yd
2026 Market Range (installed):
$720 - $3,240
Based on $4-$18/sq ft
Calculation Steps
Room Area: 12 × 15 ft= 180 sq ft (20 sq yd)
Base Carpet: 180 sq ft= 180 sq ft
+ 10% Waste: 180 × 1.1= 198 sq ft
In Square Yards: 198 ÷ 9= 22 sq yd
Privacy First - All calculations in your browser Expert-verified formula
How to Use This Calculator
- Measure your room — Get the length and width with a tape measure. For L-shaped rooms, break them into rectangles and add them up.
- Choose carpet type — Loop pile handles traffic well, cut pile feels softer. Pick based on the room's use.
- Select padding — Standard 8 lb density works for most rooms. Go premium for bedrooms where comfort matters.
- Add waste percentage — 10% is standard. Bump to 15% for stairs or irregular rooms.
- Review results — You'll see square yards (how carpet is sold) and square feet. Enable cost estimate to plan your budget.
How We Calculate
Carpet (sq yd) = (Length × Width × (1 + Waste%)) ÷ 9
Example Calculation:
- • Room: 12 ft × 15 ft = 180 sq ft
- • Waste factor: 10% (standard)
- • With waste: 180 × 1.1 = 198 sq ft
- • Convert to sq yd: 198 ÷ 9 = 22 sq yd
Based on Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) installation guidelines. Learn more →