FLOORING GUIDE / GUÍA DE PISOS
How Much Flooring Waste Should You Add?
Waste covers cuts, defects and layout matching. The right percentage depends on room shape, product and installation pattern.
Planning ranges
About 5% may suit a simple rectangular room with a straight layout; 10% is a common planning default; 12–15% may be appropriate for diagonal, patterned or complex spaces. These are planning ranges—not universal rules. Follow the manufacturer and installer.
Formula and example
Required area = measured area × (1 + waste percentage). For 240 sq ft with 10% waste: 240 × 1.10 = 264 sq ft.
When to allow more
Extra material may be needed for many corners, boards that must be color-matched, herringbone patterns, damage replacement, or products with limited future availability.
Related guides
Orientative information. Verify measurements, manufacturer instructions, site conditions and local prices.