Transforming your home with wallpaper is an exciting project, but navigating the world of rolls and patterns can be daunting. One of the most common questions that arises is: how do I know what size wallpaper to get? The answer lies in a combination of careful measurements, a bit of math, and understanding the different wallpaper options available. This comprehensive guide will help you determine the exact amount of wallpaper you need, ensuring a seamless and successful transformation.
Understanding Wallpaper Sizes and Units
Before we dive into calculations, let’s understand the basic unit of measurement for wallpaper: the roll. A standard wallpaper roll measures 56 square feet, with each roll containing approximately 33 linear feet of wallpaper. However, it’s important to note that these dimensions can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer.
Types of Wallpaper: Knowing Your Options
The type of wallpaper you choose plays a crucial role in determining the quantity you’ll need. Here are the two main types:
1. Single-Roll Wallpaper: This type offers a continuous pattern and comes in one large roll. It’s typically used for walls with a single design element or in spaces with minimal wall coverage.
2. Pre-Pasted Wallpaper: This type comes in strips that require pre-pasting with water. Pre-pasted wallpaper is easier to apply and offers more flexibility in terms of patterns and designs.
Calculating Wallpaper Needs: Step-by-Step Guide
To determine the exact amount of wallpaper you need, follow these steps:
Step 1: Measure Your Walls
Measure the height and width of each wall. Use a tape measure to get the most accurate readings. Record these measurements for each wall.
Calculate the area of each wall. Multiply the height by the width to get the area in square feet. For example, if a wall is 10 feet high and 12 feet wide, the area is 10 x 12 = 120 square feet.
Add the area of all walls together. This will give you the total square footage of the walls you want to cover.
Step 2: Account for Doors and Windows
Measure the height and width of each door and window.
Calculate the area of each door and window. Multiply the height by the width to get the area in square feet.
Subtract the total area of doors and windows from the total wall area. This will give you the exact area of the wall you need to cover with wallpaper.
Step 3: Consider Pattern Repeat
Wallpaper patterns come in different repeats, which refers to the distance between the start and end of a pattern cycle.
- Small Repeat: These patterns repeat within a short distance, usually less than 1 foot.
- Medium Repeat: These patterns have a repeat between 1 and 3 feet.
- Large Repeat: These patterns have a repeat of 3 feet or more.
The size of the pattern repeat impacts the amount of wallpaper you’ll need. Larger repeats mean more pattern waste as you try to match the design at the seams.
Here’s a helpful rule of thumb:
- Small Repeat: Add 10% to your total square footage.
- Medium Repeat: Add 15% to your total square footage.
- Large Repeat: Add 20% to your total square footage.
Step 4: Calculate the Number of Rolls Needed
Divide the adjusted square footage (after accounting for pattern repeat) by the square footage of a single roll of wallpaper (typically 56 square feet). This will give you the number of rolls you’ll need.
Round up to the nearest whole number. Always round up to ensure you have enough wallpaper to complete the project.
Additional Tips for Estimating Wallpaper
Consider the complexity of your design: If you’re using a busy pattern with multiple colors or a textured wallpaper, it’s a good idea to add an extra 10-15% to your calculations to account for possible mistakes or waste.
Check for variations in your walls: Make sure to measure the height of your walls in several places to account for any slight variations. This will ensure you have enough wallpaper to cover the entire wall.
Purchase wallpaper from the same batch: If you’re buying multiple rolls, make sure to ask the retailer for rolls from the same batch to avoid color variations.
Allow for extra rolls: It’s always a good idea to buy an extra roll or two, just in case. This way, you’ll have enough wallpaper to handle any unforeseen circumstances, such as a mistake during installation or a pattern mismatch.
Conclusion
Determining the right amount of wallpaper can seem complex, but by following these steps and considering the factors outlined above, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the right quantity and enjoy a smooth wallpaper installation. Remember, careful planning and a bit of math can go a long way in creating a beautiful and personalized space. So, grab your tape measure, gather your measurements, and embark on your wallpaper journey with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I measure my wall for wallpaper?
To measure your wall for wallpaper, you’ll need a tape measure and a pencil. Start by measuring the height of the wall from floor to ceiling. Then measure the width of the wall. Be sure to take into account any windows, doors, or other obstructions. If you have a complicated wall shape, you may need to break it down into smaller sections for easier measurement. Always measure twice and write down your measurements to avoid any errors.
Once you have your measurements, you can use them to calculate the square footage of your wall. Multiply the height by the width to get the area. Remember to subtract the area of any windows or doors from the total square footage.
2. What is a wallpaper roll size?
Wallpaper rolls typically come in standard sizes, but these can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer. Most rolls are 20.5 inches wide and 33 feet long. This translates to approximately 56 square feet of coverage per roll. However, some manufacturers offer rolls that are 24 inches wide or even 36 inches wide, so it’s important to check the product specifications before purchasing.
It’s also important to consider the pattern repeat of the wallpaper. Some patterns repeat every 18 inches, while others repeat every 27 inches. If the pattern has a larger repeat, you will need more wallpaper to cover your wall. You can typically find the pattern repeat information on the wallpaper label.
3. How many wallpaper rolls do I need?
The number of wallpaper rolls you’ll need depends on the square footage of your wall, the size of the wallpaper roll, and the pattern repeat. To estimate the number of rolls, you can divide the total square footage of your wall by the square footage per roll. However, it’s always best to overestimate and purchase an extra roll or two, just in case you make a mistake or need to touch up later.
It’s also important to consider any pattern matching. If the wallpaper has a complex pattern, you may need to order additional rolls to ensure that the pattern aligns perfectly. Always consult the instructions on the wallpaper label for specific pattern matching recommendations.
4. What if I have a textured wall?
Textured walls can present some challenges when it comes to wallpapering. The texture can make it difficult to smooth out the wallpaper and create a seamless finish. It’s important to choose a wallpaper that is specifically designed for textured walls. Look for wallpapers that are thicker and more durable, as these will be less likely to tear or wrinkle on a textured surface.
You may also want to consider using a special wallpaper paste that is designed for textured walls. This paste can help to create a smoother surface and make it easier to apply the wallpaper. You may also need to spend extra time trimming and adjusting the wallpaper to fit the contours of the textured surface.
5. How much wallpaper should I buy for a feature wall?
For a feature wall, you’ll need to determine the square footage of the wall and use the same process as calculating for multiple walls. You should purchase enough wallpaper to cover the wall with a little extra to account for any potential mistakes or pattern matching.
It’s important to note that when wallpapering a feature wall, the design and pattern of the wallpaper can have a significant impact on the overall look of the room. Choose a wallpaper that complements the style and décor of the space and consider using a bold or unique pattern to make the feature wall stand out.
6. Should I buy all the wallpaper at once?
It’s generally recommended to purchase all of your wallpaper at once to ensure that you have enough to cover your walls and that the color and pattern of the wallpaper are consistent throughout the entire space. If you’re using multiple rolls, be sure to purchase them from the same lot number to avoid variations in color or texture.
If you’re unsure about the amount of wallpaper you need, it’s always better to overestimate and buy an extra roll or two. You can always return any unused wallpaper, but it’s better to have too much than not enough.
7. Can I buy wallpaper online?
Many online retailers sell wallpaper, offering a wide variety of patterns, colors, and styles. Online shopping allows you to browse a wider selection of wallpaper and compare prices from different retailers. It also offers convenience, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your own home.
Before purchasing wallpaper online, be sure to read customer reviews and check the retailer’s return policy. You should also pay attention to the shipping costs and delivery times, as these can vary depending on the retailer and your location. It’s also wise to order a sample of the wallpaper before making a larger purchase to ensure that the color and pattern match your expectations.