Wallpaper is one of the easiest and best ways to transform your home, but before you start decorating, you need to know how to measure for wallpaper. If it isn’t measured and applied correctly, you risk mismatched patterns and a finish that doesn’t look as good as it should. Not only that, but getting your measurements right ensures you order the correct number of rolls and avoid running short.
Suppose you’re planning a striking feature wall or covering an entire room. In that case, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about measuring walls for wallpaper, from guidance on tools and techniques, right down to handling tricky areas like doors, windows, and pattern repeats.
Table of Contents
- Tools you’ll need for measuring
- Things to check before measuring
- How to measure for standard walls
- How to measure around doors and windows
- How to calculate pattern repeats
- Top tips for accurate wallpaper measuring
- Ready to order your wallpaper?
- FAQs
Tools You’ll Need for Measuring
Before measuring your space for wallpaper, gather up these essentials:
- A tape measure (at least 5m)
- Pencil and notepad (or your phone notes)
- Calculator
- Step ladder (for taller walls)
- Spirit level
Things to Check Before Measuring
For the best results, check the following things before you start measuring for wallpaper:
- Wall condition: make sure your walls are flat, smooth, and clean.
- Baseboards and ceilings: only measure the visible wall space between them.
- Allowances: always include extra for trimming at the top and bottom.
- Roll size: wallpaper comes in different widths and lengths; check before calculating.
How to Measure Wallpaper for Standard Walls
When learning how to measure a wall for wallpaper, follow these steps:
- Measure the width of the wall and write it down in centimetres.
- Measure the height from the skirting board (or floor) to the ceiling.
- Calculate the total area: multiply width x height for square metres.
- Divide by roll coverage: check the wallpaper roll’s coverage (at WallpaperMural we make it simple, just send us your measurements and we’ll calculate the exact amount of wallpaper you need, plus we’ll add an extra 6 cm (2") on every edge to allow for trimming and minor errors)
- Round up: Always order an extra roll to allow for mistakes or repairs.
How to Measure Around Doors and Windows
When figuring out how to measure for wallpaper on walls with doors or windows:
- Measure the wall as though the door/window isn’t there.
- Measure the area of the door/window separately and subtract it.
- Always allow a little extra for trimming and pattern alignment.
How to Calculate Pattern Repeats
A lot of people overlook pattern repeats when they're measuring for wallpaper. This can lead to mismatched designs or running out of wallpaper.
Here’s how to calculate:
- Find the repeat length (listed on the wallpaper label).
- Divide the wall height by the repeat length.
- Round up to the nearest whole number.
- Multiply by the repeat length to see how much wallpaper is needed per strip.
This guarantees your wallpaper design lines up perfectly across the wall.
Top Tips for Accurate Wallpaper Measuring
- Measure twice to avoid expensive mistakes.
- Take measurements at more than one point as walls aren’t always straight.
- Always add 10% extra wallpaper to be sure.
- Keep your notes handy for reference when it’s time to install.
Ready to Order Your Wallpaper?
Hopefully, now you've read this guide, you know exactly how to measure for wallpaper with confidence. Measuring right the first time means no wasted rolls, no mismatched seams, and a perfect finish that transforms your space!
At Wallpaper Mural, we make it easy. Just send us your wall measurements and we’ll calculate the exact amount of wallpaper you need. To make sure you get perfect results, we even add an extra 6 cm (2") to every edge to allow for trimming and small mistakes.
If you’re wondering what comes after measuring, take a look at our step-by-step guide on how to apply a wall mural, as it will help you with a smooth installation.
How to Measure for Wallpaper FAQs
Do I need to measure the ceiling height in every corner of the room?
Yes, walls and ceilings aren’t always perfectly straight, so it’s best to measure the height in several places and use the tallest measurement to make sure your wallpaper fully covers the wall.
What’s the best way to measure for wallpaper on sloped or angled walls?
For sloped ceilings or angled walls, measure to the highest and widest points. This makes sure you order enough wallpaper to cover the entire surface, even at the diagonal.
Should I measure around built-in furniture or fitted wardrobes?
If the furniture is permanently fixed, subtract its measurements from the wall area the same way you would do with doors and windows. For freestanding or removable furniture, measure the full wall to keep future layout changes flexible.
How do I measure for wallpaper in staircases or hallways?
Measure each wall section separately, taking into account the slope of the stairs or landings. Treat each section of wall as its own measurement and then add them together for your total area.