Laminate Calculator

Calculate how many packs of laminate to buy for a room, based on the floor area, the coverage printed on the pack and a cutting allowance.

Formula and method

The floor area is multiplied by the waste allowance and divided by the coverage of one pack. The result is rounded up, because laminate is sold in sealed packs.

How to measure the inputs

Measure the room at its widest point; walls are rarely perfectly parallel.
For a room with an alcove or a chimney breast, split the floor into rectangles.
Read the coverage figure from the pack you intend to buy — it varies from 1.6 to 3 m².

Worked example

Room length 16.4 ft; Room width 13.12 ft; Coverage per package 21.53 ft²; Waste 10 % → Packages required: 11

Practical tips

Let packs acclimatise in the room for 48 hours before laying.
Check that all packs carry the same batch number.
Order one extra pack for the last row and future repairs.

Assumptions

The room is rectangular and the floor is flat enough for floating laminate.
Coverage per pack is the usable area stated by the manufacturer.
Underlay, beading and accessories are not included in the pack count.

Frequently asked questions

How much waste do I need for laminate?

Around 5 % for a plain rectangular room laid in line with the boards, and 8–10 % where the last row must be cut along many walls or the pattern is staggered.

Does underlay change the number of packs?

No. Underlay is ordered by area and is separate from the laminate packs; this calculator covers the boards only.

Should I subtract fitted furniture from the floor area?

Yes, if the furniture sits on the finished floor and you are not laying laminate underneath it.

Related calculators

Estimate only

Results are material quantity estimates only. They are not structural design, and they are not a substitute for local building codes, engineer approval or manufacturer instructions.

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Flooring