How to Measure Your Walls for Wallpaper: A Complete Guide
Measuring for Wallpaper: Get It Right the First Time
Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful wallpaper project. Too little means you'll run short mid-installation. Too much is wasteful and costly. Here's how to get it just right.
What You'll Need
- Tape measure (at least 5 metres)
- Notepad and pen
- Calculator
- Step ladder (for high ceilings)
Step 1: Measure Wall Width
Measure the width of each wall you plan to wallpaper. Measure at both the top and bottom – walls aren't always perfectly straight. Use the larger measurement.
Important: Measure in centimetres for greater accuracy.
Step 2: Measure Wall Height
Measure from floor to ceiling. Take measurements at multiple points, especially in older homes where floors may be uneven.
Pro tip: Add 5-10cm to your height measurement for trimming and alignment.
Step 3: Account for Doors and Windows
Measure the dimensions of any doors, windows, or built-in features. Subtract these from your total wall area.
Note: It's better to have slightly more than slightly less – small offcuts can be useful for touch-ups.
Step 4: Calculate Total Area
Multiply width × height for each wall section, then add them together for your total square meterage.
Step 5: Add 10-15% Extra
Always add extra for:
- Pattern matching and alignment
- Trimming at edges
- Mistakes (they happen!)
- Future repairs
Using Our Calculator
The easiest way? Use our free wallpaper calculator. Simply enter your wall dimensions and we'll tell you exactly how much you need – including the recommended extra for pattern matching.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring in feet and inches – Australia uses metric!
- Forgetting to measure behind furniture – Measure the full wall
- Not accounting for pattern repeats – Larger patterns need more material
- Measuring once – Always double-check
When in Doubt
Our team is here to help. Send us your measurements and we'll confirm your order quantity before you buy.
