When you’re planning a new floor, one of the first questions that comes up is: how much flooring do I need? It’s a simple question, but getting the answer wrong can be costly, whether you’re left short mid-installation or have to store excess packs. With a little preparation and the right tools, you can work this out with confidence – saving time, money, and hassle down the line. 

Why Accurate Measurements Matter 

Before you even choose a board, it’s important to understand the space you’re covering. Whether you’re fitting a herringbone pattern or going wall-to-wall with wide planks, precision is key. Even small measurement mistakes can impact how many packs of flooring you need. Knowing your exact floor space ratio means every square metre counts. 

Wood flooring offers more than just surface appeal. Its warmth, natural texture, and longevity create a solid foundation for daily life. And when it’s responsibly sourced and expertly crafted, it becomes an investment in both style and sustainability. 

It starts with simple tools: a tape measure or preferably a laser measuring tool, and a notepad. Paired with the right mindset and attention to detail, that first step becomes the groundwork for a space that reflects the beauty and longevity of natural wood. Follow the steps below to make sure every measurement counts. 

How to Measure a Room for Flooring 

Every good installation begins with accurate measurements. Here’s a straightforward approach: 

1. Clear the space – Move furniture so you have full access to the floor area. 
2. Break it down – If your room has alcoves or adjoining spaces, measure each section separately. 
3. Measure length and width – Multiply these together to get the area in square metres. 
4. Add wastage – Always factor in approximately 10-15% for offcuts and pattern matching. (Read the flooring calculator for a detailed breakdown of wastage and remember the type of floor will determine the amount of waste needed i.e. Herringbone will need more than a plank) 

If you’re measuring unusually shaped rooms, sketch it out and divide the room into rectangles or triangles. Then add those together. 

Use a Flooring Calculator for Accuracy 

If you’re unsure whether your figures are spot on, try using a reliable online flooring calculator. Tools like these help convert measurements into packs and account for different board sizes and layouts. Just ensure you’re working in the same unit of measure across all steps. Navigate to the product page of your chosen flooring to find a suitable calculator. 

Choosing a trusted supplier can make all the difference here. That includes clear technical specifications, easy-to-use guides, and materials you can rely on to deliver consistent results. View the full Woodpecker Flooring range here. 

How Many Packs of Flooring Do I Need? 

That depends on the room size and the type of flooring you’re installing. Packs are sold by coverage, so once you know the area (plus your 10-15% waste buffer), divide it by the pack coverage listed on the product label to calculate the number of packs needed. 

Some floors, especially character-grade or natural finishes, can need more flexibility when laying. This is because these boards often feature more natural variation in tone and grain, which means you’ll want to lay them in a way that feels visually balanced across the room. That process can involve more selection, repositioning, and potentially more cutting, all of which can affect how much flooring you need. Knowing how many packs of flooring you need is as much about layout and pattern as it is about space. 

For herringbone specifically, there are a few extra considerations that can affect quantities and install time. This herringbone guide walks through useful tips to help you prepare and plan accordingly. 

Choosing the Right Flooring for the Space 

Now that you’ve measured your space and know how much to order, it’s time to choose the right type of flooring. From classic solid wood to more adaptable engineered options, each comes with its own benefits. 

If you’re still weighing up engineered wood vs solid wood, it’s worth thinking about the installation method, subfloor conditions, and the room’s moisture levels. 

Every Woodpecker floor is made with care, using responsibly sourced timber and time-honoured techniques. You’ll notice the quality underfoot – stable, beautiful and built to last. 

A Beautiful Floor Begins with Precision 

Working out how much flooring you need is one of the simplest yet most impactful steps in a successful floor installation. With a few basic measurements and the right calculations, you can get it right first time. And if you’re refreshing your home or renovating a well-used room, measuring up is the start of a fresh chapter. This guide to reclaiming your space shares ideas to help you get the most from it. 

A wooden floor is more than a design choice. It’s a grounding element in your space that evolves with how you live. Choosing a trusted name gives you peace of mind – and a foundation that feels right, day after day.