How to calculate wallpaper
Rolls = ⌈(Wall area − Openings × 20 sq ft) ÷ Usable roll coverage⌉
Worked example. Rolls needed: 6 double rolls.
Example inputs — Total wall width: 48 ft; Wall height: 8 ft; Doors & windows: 3; Pattern repeat: 0 in. Starting values are illustrative.
Based on standard double rolls (~56 sq ft each)
From George Guju, founder of Calculyn · Educational calculator guidance, not professional advice.
How it works
Multiply total wall width by height, subtract about 20 sq ft per door or window, then divide by the usable coverage of a roll. Pattern repeats waste paper, so usable coverage drops as the repeat grows.
Assumptions & limitations
- Results are rounded for display.
Formula and assumptions reviewed October 2026 by the Calculyn team. How we build our calculators
Frequently asked questions
Single or double rolls?
Wallpaper is usually priced in single rolls but sold in double rolls. This estimate uses double-roll coverage — check the label on your chosen paper.