On a Roll: How To Measure For Wallpaper

WALL PAPER - HOW TO CALCULATE ROLLS NEEDED

For calculating rolls needed, use the following method. Note first that there is no simple means of calculating rollage needs that is always 100 percent accurate. The pattern repeat, rooms of unusual size or shape, greater than normal wastage during the hanging, or other special circumstances can throw off any estimate.

1. Find the repeat length, if any.

2. Using the following chart, find the usable yield for the wallcovering selected.

3. Divide the square footage figure you have previously calculated by the usable yield for the wallcovering selected. This will give you the number of single metric rolls needed or the number of American rolls needed.

These figures work well for normal sized walls. For unusually short (under 3 feet - such as over kitchen cabinets) or high (above 9 feet) walls, they do not apply and you should have your professional paper-hanger calculate your wallcovering needs.

Estimating Example for Metric Single Rolls

With the measurements you have made, you find that the room you are hanging has a total of 340 square feet. Your selection has a 9 inch repeat. In the appropriate line under “Repeat Length” in the Usable Yield Chart, you find that your selection has a usable yield of 22 square feet. Dividing 340 by 22 equals 15.45 or 16 single metric rolls.

Estimating Example for American Single Rolls

With the measurements you have made, you find that the room you are hanging has a total of 340 square feet. Your selection has a 9 inch repeat. In the appropriate line under “Repeat Length” in the Usable Yield Chart, you find thatyour selection has a usable yield of 30 squarefeet. Dividing 340 by 30 equals 11.33 or 12 single American rolls. After finding the number of rolls needed for the wall(s) or room you are hanging, deduct one half roll (if metric) for each standard size door or window. Design repeat of the pattern and length of roll may increase your rollage needs. Your professional paperhanger can advise you if the wallcovering selected will significantly affect your rollage needs.

USABLE YIELD CHARTS

METRIC SINGLE ROLLS

Repeat Length Usable Yield

0”to 6” 25 sq. ft.

7” to12” 22 sq. ft.

13” to 18” 20 sq. ft.

19” to 23” 18 sq. ft.

AMERICAN SINGLE ROLLS

Repeat Length Usable Yield

0” to 6” 32 sq. ft.

7” to12” 30 sq. ft.

13” to 18” 27 sq. ft.

19” to 23” 25 sq. ft.