Installers may also charge for removing old carpet, moving furniture, floor preparation, transitions and stairs; ask what their quote includes.
How the carpet calculator works
CarpetCalc works out both layouts. Strips running along one side are that side plus the trimming allowance long; the number of strips is the other side ÷ the roll width, rounded up. Linear feet = strips × strip length, carpet area = linear feet × roll width, and square yards = square feet ÷ 9. It keeps the layout with fewer linear feet (or fewer seams on a tie). Pad = floor area plus the extra you set; tack strip = perimeter − doorways. For stairs, each piece is tread + riser + wrap long, and as many pieces as fit side by side across the roll are cut from each row.
Carpet bought from a 12 ft roll (6″ trimming allowance)
| Room | Floor | Carpet bought | Seams |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 12 ft | 13.33 sq yd | 14 sq yd (10.5 linear ft) | 0 |
| 12 × 12 ft | 16 sq yd | 16.67 sq yd (12.5 linear ft) | 0 |
| 12 × 15 ft | 20 sq yd | 20.67 sq yd (15.5 linear ft) | 0 |
| 12 × 18 ft | 24 sq yd | 24.67 sq yd (18.5 linear ft) | 0 |
| 14 × 16 ft | 24.89 sq yd | 38.67 sq yd (29 linear ft) | 1 |
| 16 × 20 ft | 35.56 sq yd | 44 sq yd (33 linear ft) | 1 |
Real layouts also depend on pile direction, pattern repeat, seam placement and how offcuts can fill closets and doorways, so a store or installer may plan the cuts differently. Patterned carpet needs extra for matching the repeat. Results are estimates: have the room measured before you order.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to carpet a 14 × 18 room?
With the example prices ($3/sq ft carpet, $0.60 pad, $1.25 installation): about $1,518, because 348 sq ft of carpet is bought for 252 sq ft of floor.
Is carpet priced by the square foot or yard?
Both are common. Multiply a per-square-foot price by 9 to compare with a per-square-yard price.
Does installation include pad?
Often not; check the quote. CarpetCalc prices pad separately.
Is CarpetCalc free?
Yes, with no sign-up or ads.
Are my measurements saved?
Yes, in this browser only.