Single roll vs double roll — which do I order?

European wallpaper is typically sold as a single roll (~28 sqft, ~5.5 yd × 21 in). North American wallpaper is most often sold as a 'double roll' (~56 sqft) for shipping efficiency. Stated coverage on the label is what matters — the calculator handles both. Always order in the format the supplier sells.

Why so much waste — can I lower the percentage?

Pattern repeat is the main driver. A small repeat (under 6 in) needs ~10%, medium (6-21 in) ~15%, large (21+ in) ~20-25%. Random match (textured / non-aligned) ~10%. Always add an extra full roll for future repairs.

Should I subtract small windows?

Subtract anything bigger than ~10 sqft (a typical window or door). Skip electrical outlet covers — too small to matter and getting them wrong reduces buffer.

Does ceiling height matter for matching?

Yes. Strips are cut to wall height + pattern allowance. The taller the room, the more waste from each roll because partial leftover strips often can't be reused. The 15% default already accounts for this on standard 8-9 ft ceilings; add 5% for ceilings over 10 ft.

Peel-and-stick vs traditional paste?

Same calculation. Peel-and-stick is usually sold by the linear foot or by the roll, often with explicit 'covers X sq ft' on the listing — use that as the per-roll coverage value.

Wallpaper Roll Calculator

Home & DIY· 5 tools

Free wallpaper calculator. Enter room perimeter and ceiling height, subtract door and window areas, and get the count of single rolls (typical 28 sqft) or double rolls (typical 56 sqft). 15% default pattern-repeat waste covers most patterned papers — bump higher for large repeats or random-match designs.

Wall perimeter (ft)

Sum of all wall lengths

Ceiling height (ft)

Doors + windows total (sq ft)

Standard door ≈ 21 sq ft · standard window ≈ 12-15 sq ft

Roll size

Roll coverage (sq ft)

Waste (%)

Pattern repeat· Small (< 6in) 10% · Medium 15% · Large (21in+) 20-25%

Add one extra roll to your purchase for future patch repairs.

Rolls needed (double)

6 rolls

Wall area (after openings)280.0 sq ft

+ Waste (15%)322.0 sq ft

Frequently Asked Questions

References

Sherwin-Williams Wallpaper Guide — Sherwin-Williams

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Frequently Asked Questions

References and sources

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