What Are Floorings? How to Measure Flooring?

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This article is a beginner’s guide to know what is flooring and how to measure flooring for your homes designs. This is our first article in the interior design basics sections as the floor is the bases of our home’s entire structure.

So in guide we’ll explore the various flooring types and solutions for your home, including hardwood, tile, laminate, vinyl, and eco-friendly options. Learn how to choose the best flooring for durability, design, and budget.

What is Flooring? How is Flooring Measured?

Flooring refers to the permanent covering of a floor of any specific area. The area we walk on typically is the floor and the type of material that covers that area is the flooring.

Why is Flooring Important?

Floorings are typically understood as the esthetics we apply to our floors to enhance their functionality, comfort and appeal.

Why is flooring Important?

Flooring are a crucial part of our home design and to enhance the functionality of our space. Following are some of the main reasons why flooring of our floors is important:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Flooring significantly contributes to the visual appeal of a room, setting the tone for the overall interior design. It can complement other elements like furniture, wall colors, and decor.
• Comfort: The type of flooring chosen can affect the comfort level of a space. For instance, carpet offers a soft surface that feels warm underfoot, while hardwood provides a solid and natural feel.
• Durability and Maintenance: Different flooring materials offer varying levels of durability and maintenance requirements. Choosing the right flooring can extend the lifespan of the floor and reduce upkeep costs.
• Safety: Flooring can impact the safety of a space, especially in terms of slip resistance. Some materials are more slip-resistant than others, making them suitable for areas prone to moisture.
• Acoustic Properties: Flooring materials can influence the acoustics of a room. For example, carpet can absorb sound, reducing noise levels, while hard surfaces like tile can amplify sound.

Let us see what all variety of floorings are available to us:

There are numerous types of flooring available, each with its own characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. Some of the most common types include:

• Stone Flooring: Includes natural stones like marble, granite, and slate. Stone flooring is durable, luxurious, and adds value to a property but can be expensive and require maintenance.
• Hardwood Flooring: Made from solid wood, offering a timeless and natural look. It can be refinished multiple times but is susceptible to moisture and scratches.
• Laminate Flooring: A synthetic product that mimics the appearance of wood, stone, or tile. It is cost-effective, easy to install, and resistant to scratches.
• Vinyl Flooring: Available in sheets, tiles, or planks, vinyl is durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain. It comes in various styles and designs.
• Tile Flooring: Includes materials like ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles. Tile flooring is durable, water-resistant, and available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
• Carpet Flooring: A soft and warm option, ideal for bedrooms and living areas. It is available in various textures, colors, and patterns but requires regular maintenance.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: Made from a core of hardwood or plywood with a layer of hardwood veneer on top. It is more stable than solid wood and can withstand humidity better.
• Bamboo Flooring: A sustainable and eco-friendly option, bamboo is durable and offers a unique look. It is comparable to hardwood in terms of appearance and feel.

How is Flooring Measured?

Flooring is generally measured in square feet (sq ft) or square meters (sq m), depending on the country and industry standards. The measurement involves determining the area of the space to be covered, which requires calculating the length and width of each room or section and then multiplying these dimensions.

General or Universal Method of Measuring Flooring

The universal method for measuring flooring involves the following steps:

1.   Measure the Length and Width:

Use a tape measure to measure the length and width of each room or space where flooring will be installed. For irregularly shaped rooms, divide the space into smaller sections (rectangles or squares) and measure each section separately.

2.   Calculate the Area:

Multiply the length by the width for each section to get the area in square feet or square meters. For example, if a room is 12 feet long and 10 feet wide, the area is 12 x 10 = 120 sq ft.

3.  Add Up All Areas:

If the space consists of multiple rooms or sections, calculate the area for each and then add them together to get the total area.

4.  Consider Extra Material:

It is advisable to account for 5-10% extra material when purchasing flooring to cover any wastage, cuts, or mistakes.

How to Measure Your Home Flooring by Yourself

To measure your home’s flooring by yourself, follow these simple steps:

1. Gather Tools: You will need a tape measure, a notepad, and a pen or pencil.
2. Clear the Space: Remove any furniture or obstacles from the room to get accurate measurements.
3. Measure Each Room: Start with one room, measure the length and width in feet or meters, and record the measurements. For rooms with alcoves, closets, or other features, measure these areas separately.
4. Calculate the Area: Use the formula (Length x Width) to calculate the area of each room.
5. Repeat for All Rooms: Continue measuring and recording the areas of all rooms where flooring will be installed.
6. Add Up the Areas: Sum up the areas of all the rooms to get the total flooring area.
7. Include Extra Material: Remember to add 5-10% extra to account for cuts and wastage.

Chart of Flooring Measurements Depending on House Size

Below is a general chart showing typical flooring measurements based on house size. The actual area will vary depending on the layout and specific dimensions of each home.

House Size (sq ft)	Number of Rooms	Estimated Flooring Area (sq ft)	Extra Material (10%)	Total Area (sq ft)
500 – 700	1-2	500 – 700	50 – 70	550 – 770
700 – 1000	2-3	700 – 1000	70 – 100	770 – 1100
1000 – 1500	3-4	1000 – 1500	100 – 150	1100 – 1650
1500 – 2000	4-5	1500 – 2000	150 – 200	1650 – 2200
2000 – 2500	5-6	2000 – 2500	200 – 250	2200 – 2750
2500 – 3000	6-7	2500 – 3000	250 – 300	2750 – 3300

Notes:

• The number of rooms is a rough estimate and can vary widely.
• The “Extra Material” column accounts for potential wastage and cuts.
• Total area is the sum of the estimated flooring area and the extra material.
• This chart provides a general guideline, and the actual measurements should be taken carefully to ensure accuracy. Remember, different flooring materials may require specific installation techniques and allowances, so always consult with a professional if you’re unsure.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing Flooring

Before deciding on the type of flooring, consider the following factors:

1. Room Usage: Different rooms have different requirements. For example, bathrooms and kitchens require water-resistant flooring, while bedrooms and living areas may prioritize comfort.
2. Climate and Environment: The climate of the area can affect the choice of flooring. Humid climates may require moisture-resistant options, while cold areas might benefit from flooring that retains heat.
3. Budget: The cost of flooring varies significantly depending on the material. Consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term maintenance expenses.
4. Durability and Longevity: Consider the expected lifespan of the flooring and its resistance to wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas.
5. Maintenance Requirements: Some flooring types require more maintenance than others. Consider the time and effort needed for cleaning and upkeep.
6. Aesthetic Preferences: The style and design of the flooring should complement the overall decor and theme of the space.
7. Installation: Some flooring types are easier to install than others. Consider whether professional installation is required or if it can be a DIY project.
8. Comfort and Safety: Consider the comfort level of the flooring and any safety features, such as slip resistance, especially if there are children or elderly individuals in the home.

Choosing the right flooring involves balancing these factors to find the best fit for your specific needs and preferences.

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