How to Measure for Wallpaper

NOTE: Even if you have an advanced degree in mathematics we recommend always consulting a professional wallpaper installer to confirm your measurements.

But if you must do it yourself, here are our top tips for measuring:

Decide which wallpaper you will be measuring for. Wallpaper is typically sold either by the roll, by the linear yard or by the panel if it's a mural.

Measuring for Cape Lily's Hydrangea Wallpaper

What is wallpaper by the roll?

Wallpaper sold by the roll comes in a full roll with a defined length for each roll and is the most common way for wallpaper to be sold.

• A standard roll of wallpaper is often 20.5 inches (52 cm) wide by 33 feet (10 meters) long and covers approximately 56 square feet.

• A double roll of wallpaper is two standard rolls of wallpaper combined into one (in this example 20.5 inches (52 cm) wide by 66 feet (20 meters), covering approximately 112 square feet. With a double roll, the width is the same as a single roll, you are just getting double the length.

Note that roll widths and lengths can vary and you should always check the wallpaper specifications for the size of the roll you're ordering. Some standard wallpaper widths are: 20", 27", 36" or 54" wide. Longer rolls may be up to 40 feet (12 meters) long.

What is wallpaper by the linear yard?

Wallpaper sold by the linear yard is sold in a continuous strip where you specify the desired length in yards, rather than purchasing a standard full roll.

A "linear yard" simply refers to 36 inches or (91.4 cm), regardless of the wallpaper’s width.

Simply put, you are purchasing a continuous strip of wallpaper in increments of yards. The width of each pattern may vary. This is a good way to reduce waste and purchase only the quantity you need. Many digitally printed designs are sold by the yard, including those sold by Cape Lily. Maximum consecutive lengths (or bolt sizes) vary but are typically no longer than 45 yards.

How to measure for wallpaper sold by the yard or by the roll:​

1. Measure the width of each wall at its widest point and then measure the height from the lowest floor point to the highest ceiling point. Then, combine the measurements of each wall to determine the total coverage needed. This approach ensures enough material while accounting for pattern repeats and potential installation challenges. ​Be sure to measure each wall section separately for accuracy and add 3-4" to each wall.

2. Divide the total square footage by wallpaper width to determine the number of rolls/yards needed. Always add 10% extra to account for potential mistakes. Use our wallpaper calculator to help find the amount of wallpaper!​

3. When measuring for wallpaper do not deduct for doors and windows.  Be sure to include measurements for inside corners,  around doorways, above windows or other features that won't need covering as these will still require material to account for pattern-matching. Note that light switches, outlets, air vents or radiators require careful cutting during installation but don't affect the quantity calculation. If in doubt always include the area in your measurements or consult a professional.

   
   

To help calculate how much yardage you can use our wallpaper calculator:

Wallpaper Calculator

What is wallpaper by the panel:

Wallpaper sold by the panel refers to wallpaper that comes in set sections or panels. The full pattern or scene is divided into equally spaced panels or sections, coming together to create one connected scene. The full repeat spans the width of all the panels e.g Panel A, B,C or Panel 1, 2,3 + . The panels align when hung next to each other to create one large scale mural effect. Murals are typically used to create large scale scenes for a striking visual impact.

The size of the panel width may vary across brands but are often wider than a typical roll. You may be able to select from set heights or customize the height of the panel based on your ceiling height) and determine how many panels you need to fill your space.

How to measure for wallpaper murals sold by the panel:

1. Measure your wall height (Cape Lily panels are sold in either 9' or 12' high with additional heights available as a custom order).

2. Then measure the width of the wall(s) you want covered.

   
   

Tips for measuring wallpaper with accuracy:

• Use a metal tape measure rather than a soft cloth tape measure for more accurate measurements. The tape measure must lay flat against the wall surface. Pull it taut to avoid sagging, which can lead to inaccurate measurements.

• Take measurements twice to confirm accuracy. Record each dimension in inches and round up by 3-4 inches for accuracy.

• If there is a baseboard, chair rail or wainscoting you will measure from the lowest point to the ceiling. Similarly if there is any ceiling molding you will measure to where you want the wallpaper to meet the ceiling molding.​​​

• Sloped or slanted walls need special consideration. Measure both the shortest and tallest points, then use the longer measurement to ensure full coverage. For example, when measuring a sloping staircase you will still need to measure to the highest point of the ceiling.

• Curved walls demand additional material. Measure the actual curved surface distance rather than the straight-line distance between endpoints.​

We hope this has been helpful. Happy measuring!