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Carpet Calculator

Enter your room size to get the carpet you need in square yards, plus an estimated cost. Waste is included.

Room size
Waste and price (optional)
$

Carpet needed

22.0 square yardsOrder this much carpet
Room area180 sq ft

Estimated cost

Carpet cost$550
Carpet room

How to calculate carpet

Carpet is sold by the square yard. Find the room area in square feet, divide by 9, then add waste for cuts and pattern matching.

Formula: square yards = room area (sq ft) ÷ 9 × (1 + waste %)

Worked example: 15 ft × 12 ft room

Room area = 15 × 12 = 180 sq ft. Square yards: 180 ÷ 9 = 20. Add 10% waste: 22.0 square yards.

Waste and seams

Carpet comes in 12 ft wide rolls, so long or angled rooms waste more. Rooms with closets, stairs and angles need 15% or more.

Common room sizes

Includes 10% waste. Cost uses $25 per square yard. Fitting not included.

Cost tips

Prices on this page are editable estimates, not quotes. Get 2 to 3 local quotes before you buy, and ask if delivery is included. Delivery, tax and waste can change the total a lot. Order a little extra for cuts and breakage, and confirm final quantities with your supplier or a qualified professional.

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Frequently asked questions

How much carpet do I need for a 15x12 room?

A 15 ft by 12 ft room needs 22.0 square yards with 10% waste.

How do square feet convert to square yards?

Divide square feet by 9. Carpet is sold by the square yard.

How much waste should I add?

Add 10% for rectangular rooms and 15% or more for rooms with angles, closets and stairs.

Does this include padding?

No, this counts carpet only. Padding is usually sold by the square yard too, so order the same amount.

Are the prices accurate?

Prices are editable estimates. The defaults are typical US figures, and your local price can be higher or lower. Fitting is not included.

Last updated 2026-10-26. Formulas checked by Bilal Mughal.