Wallpaper Calculator - Calculate Exact Rolls Needed
Calculate exact wallpaper rolls & cost with pattern matching. Free wallpaper calculator with waste & repeat calculations. Save time and money on your wallpaper project!
Wallpaper Calculator
Calculate wallpaper rolls needed for your room decorating project.
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How to Use the Wallpaper Calculator
Our free wallpaper calculator helps you determine exactly how many rolls you need for any room. Whether you're wallpapering a bedroom, living room, or accent wall, get accurate roll estimates with pattern matching and waste calculations to avoid over-buying or running short.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Measure Your Walls: Measure the width and height of each wall you plan to wallpaper in feet or meters. For complex rooms, measure each wall separately and add them together.
- Enter Room Dimensions: Input total wall length (perimeter) and wall height. Don't subtract doors and windows yet - we'll do that next.
- Subtract Openings: Enter the number of doors (typically 21 sq ft each) and windows (15-20 sq ft each) to get accurate wallpaper coverage area.
- Choose Roll Dimensions: Standard wallpaper rolls are 20.5" wide x 33 feet long (covers about 56 sq ft). Some European rolls are wider. Enter your specific roll dimensions.
- Pattern Repeat: Check your wallpaper label for pattern repeat length (0-36 inches typically). Larger repeats require more waste for pattern matching across strips.
- Add Waste Factor: Include 10-15% extra for pattern matching, trimming, and mistakes. Complex patterns or DIY installations need higher waste factors (15-20%).
- Calculate: Click calculate to see total rolls needed, total coverage area, and estimated cost based on your wallpaper price per roll.
Pro Tip:
Always buy wallpaper from the same batch (check the batch number on the roll label). Color and pattern can vary slightly between batches. Order extra rolls for future repairs - wallpaper patterns are often discontinued within 1-2 years.
Understanding Wallpaper Pattern Repeats
Pattern repeat is the distance from one point in the pattern to where it repeats on the next strip. This affects how much wallpaper you'll need and how much waste you'll have.
Types of Pattern Repeats
No Pattern / Random Match (0" repeat)
Solid colors, textures, or random patterns with no matching required.
✓ Least waste (10% extra sufficient)
✓ Easiest to hang
✓ Best for beginners
Small Repeat (6-12" repeat)
Small, frequent patterns like mini florals or geometric designs.
• Moderate waste (12-15% extra)
• Relatively easy matching
• Good for DIY projects
Medium Repeat (12-24" repeat)
Common for most patterned wallpapers with medium-sized motifs.
• Higher waste (15-20% extra)
• Requires careful matching
• Some experience helpful
Large Repeat (24-36"+ repeat)
Large-scale patterns, murals, or scenic designs.
• Highest waste (20-25% extra)
• Difficult matching required
• Professional installation recommended
Straight Match vs. Drop Match
Straight Match
Pattern aligns horizontally across all strips at the same level.
✓ Easier to hang
✓ Less waste
Drop Match / Half-Drop
Pattern drops by half the repeat on alternating strips, creating diagonal flow.
• More challenging
• 10-15% more waste
Standard Wallpaper Roll Sizes
Wallpaper rolls come in various sizes depending on the manufacturer and region. Knowing your roll dimensions is crucial for accurate calculations.
| Roll Type | Width | Length | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Standard Single Roll | 20.5" | 16.5 ft | ~28 sq ft |
| US Standard Double Roll | 20.5" | 33 ft | ~56 sq ft |
| European Standard | 21" | 33 ft | ~57 sq ft |
| Commercial/Wide Roll | 27" | 27 ft | ~61 sq ft |
| Extra Wide (Modern) | 36" | 30 ft | ~90 sq ft |
Important Note:
Most wallpaper in the US is sold in double rolls. Even if the price says "per roll," you'll typically receive a double roll (33 feet). Always verify with your supplier before purchasing. Some specialty wallpapers come in triple rolls or even continuous lengths.
Wallpaper Cost Estimation
Wallpaper costs vary widely based on quality, design complexity, and brand. Here's a breakdown to help you budget your project:
Budget Wallpaper
$15-35/roll
- • Basic patterns
- • Vinyl or paper
- • Pre-pasted options
- • Limited designs
Mid-Range Wallpaper
Popular$40-80/roll
- • Designer patterns
- • Durable materials
- • Wide selection
- • Better quality
Premium Wallpaper
$90-200+/roll
- • Designer brands
- • Custom designs
- • Luxury materials
- • Hand-printed
Additional Costs to Consider
- Wallpaper Paste/Adhesive: $10-25 per gallon (covers 6-8 rolls). Pre-pasted wallpaper still benefits from activator solution.
- Primer/Sizing: $20-40 per gallon. Essential for proper adhesion, especially on new drywall or previously painted walls.
- Tools: $30-100 for complete kit (smoothing tool, seam roller, cutting knife, level, brush, sponge, tray).
- Professional Installation: $2-7 per square foot of wall area. Complex patterns or difficult rooms cost more.
Common Wallpaper Calculation Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not Accounting for Pattern Repeat
The biggest mistake! Large pattern repeats (24-36") can increase your wallpaper needs by 20-30%. Always check the pattern repeat on the label and add appropriate waste.
❌ Buying Single Rolls When Double Rolls Are Sold
Most wallpaper is sold in double rolls (33 feet) even if priced "per roll." If you calculate 8 single rolls needed, you actually need 4 double rolls. Verify with your supplier!
❌ Not Checking Batch Numbers
Wallpaper dye lots vary between batches. Always order from the same batch number to ensure color consistency. Order extras immediately - the pattern may be discontinued later.
❌ Insufficient Waste Factor for DIY
Professional installers need 10% waste; DIYers should add 15-20% for mistakes, learning curve, and pattern matching errors. Better to have extra than run short mid-project.
❌ Ignoring Ceiling Height and Obstacles
High ceilings (9-10 feet) and awkward obstacles (light switches, outlets, built-ins) increase waste. Add extra rolls for rooms with complex layouts or cathedral ceilings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many rolls of wallpaper do I need for a 12x12 room?
A 12x12 room with 8-foot ceilings has 384 square feet of wall space. Using standard double rolls (56 sq ft coverage), you'll need 7-8 rolls with no pattern or 8-10 rolls with a large pattern repeat, including waste. Subtract 1 roll if you're not wallpapering behind large furniture.
What is a pattern repeat in wallpaper?
Pattern repeat is the vertical distance between identical points in the design. It determines how much wallpaper is wasted when matching patterns between strips. A 24" repeat means you need to align the pattern every 24 inches vertically, creating more waste than a 12" repeat.
Should I wallpaper the entire room or just an accent wall?
Accent walls are trendy, budget-friendly, and easier for DIY. One wallpapered wall creates a focal point without overwhelming the space. Full-room wallpaper creates a cohesive, luxury look but costs more and takes longer. Consider starting with an accent wall in high-impact areas like behind the bed or sofa.
Can I wallpaper over existing wallpaper?
It's possible but not recommended. New wallpaper may not adhere properly, existing seams may show through, and removal becomes harder later. Always remove old wallpaper first, repair walls, prime, and then apply new wallpaper for best results and longevity.
How long does wallpaper installation take?
For DIYers: A single accent wall (100-150 sq ft) takes 4-6 hours. A full bedroom takes 1-2 days. Professionals complete a room in 4-8 hours depending on complexity. Pattern matching, ceiling height, and room obstacles affect timing significantly.
What's the difference between pre-pasted and unpasted wallpaper?
Pre-pasted wallpaper has dry adhesive on the back that activates with water - easier for DIY but may need extra paste in corners. Unpasted wallpaper requires applying paste with a brush or roller - more professional control but messier. Pre-pasted is best for beginners.