How many boxes of flooring do I need?
(Area + waste) ÷ coverage per box = boxes (rounded up).
Most flooring is sold by the box, and each box covers a specific area (square feet or square meters). The key is to add a realistic waste factor before converting to boxes.
Once you know your total area and the product’s coverage per box, the math is simple: divide and round up.
Step-by-step: boxes estimate
- Measure total floor area for all rooms (include closets if they’re getting the same flooring).
- Choose a waste factor (often 5–10% for straight layouts; more for diagonal or complex cuts).
- Multiply floor area by (1 + waste factor).
- Divide by coverage per box from the product spec.
- Round up to whole boxes (and consider an extra box for future repairs).
Practical tips
- Check that coverage per box matches your unit system (sq ft vs m²).
- Stairs, patterns, and direction changes increase waste—plan higher overage.
- Try to buy all boxes from the same dye lot/batch when possible.
- If you’re mixing rooms later, keep one unopened box for repairs.
Want the fast estimate?
Use our flooring calculator and share a link that keeps your inputs.
FAQ
What waste factor should I use?
Many straight layouts use 5–10%. Diagonal layouts, small rooms, and complex cuts often need more.
Do I include closets?
Include any area that will receive the same flooring. Exclude areas with a different product (tile, carpet, etc.).
Should I buy an extra box?
Often yes. It can save you later if a plank gets damaged or if the product is discontinued.
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