How many rolls of wallpaper do I need for an average UK room?

For a typical UK bedroom (3.6m × 3m with 2.4m ceiling), you need approximately 5-6 rolls. For a living room (5m × 4m), expect 8-10 rolls. These estimates include 10% waste but exclude doors and windows.

Should I deduct doors and windows from wallpaper calculations?

For small windows, it's safer not to deduct as the offcuts are often unusable. For large windows (bay windows) and doors, deduct about half the area. Always round up and buy an extra roll for mistakes and future repairs.

How much extra wallpaper should I buy for waste?

For plain or random patterns: add 10% waste. For patterns with small repeats (under 30cm): add 15%. For large pattern repeats (over 50cm): add 20-25%. Always buy one extra roll for mistakes and future repairs.

Why is batch number important when buying wallpaper?

Each production batch can have slight colour variations. Always buy all rolls from the same batch number to ensure consistent colour throughout your room. If buying online, request all rolls from the same batch.

Can I use leftover wallpaper rolls from a different batch?

Different batches may have noticeable colour differences when hung side by side. Use leftover rolls from different batches only behind furniture or in cupboards where colour variation won't be visible.

Wallpaper Calculator UK | How Many Rolls Do I Need? 2025

Calculate exactly how many wallpaper rolls you need for your UK room. Our calculator uses the standard UK roll size (10.05m × 53cm), accounts for pattern repeat waste, and includes allowance for doors, windows, and cutting errors. Perfect for bedroom, living room, or feature wall projects.

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Room Dimensions Calculator

Enter your room dimensions to calculate wallpaper needed for all walls.

Room Length (m)

Room Width (m)

Wall Height (m)

Number of Doors

Number of Standard Windows

Pattern Repeat (cm) - Leave 0 for plain

Pattern Match Type

Feature Wall Calculator

Calculate wallpaper for a single accent or feature wall.

Wall Width (m)

Wall Height (m)

Pattern Repeat (cm)

Pattern Match Type

Perimeter Method Calculator

If you've already measured the room perimeter, use this quick method.

Room Perimeter (m) - Total of all walls

Wall Height (m)

Pattern Repeat (cm)

Deduct for Doors/Windows (m of width)

Quick Room Estimate

Select your room type for an instant estimate based on typical UK room sizes.

Room Type

Ceiling Height

Has Pattern Repeat?

UK Wallpaper Roll Sizes

Standard wallpaper sizes available in the UK market:

Roll Type	Length	Width	Coverage	Common Use
UK Standard (Metric)	10.05m (33ft)	53cm (21")	5.3m²	Most common - used by this calculator
European Metric	10.05m (33ft)	53cm (21")	5.3m²	Same as UK standard
American Standard	8.2m (27ft)	68.5cm (27")	5.6m²	Imported designer papers
Wide Width	10.05m (33ft)	70cm (27.5")	7m²	Luxury/designer papers
Commercial Grade	25-50m	100-137cm	25-68m²	Contract/commercial use

Calculator Note: This calculator uses the UK standard roll size (10.05m × 53cm). If using American or wide-width wallpaper, the number of rolls may differ. Always check the actual roll dimensions on your chosen wallpaper.

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Understanding Pattern Repeat

Free Match

Plain, textured, or random patterns. No matching required between strips. Least waste.

+10% waste allowance

Straight Match

Pattern aligns horizontally at same height. Common for stripes and geometric designs.

+15-20% waste allowance

Half-Drop Match

Pattern on next strip drops by half the repeat. Creates more waste but striking effect.

+20-25% waste allowance

Large Pattern Warning: Wallpapers with repeat over 50cm (like large florals or murals) can result in significant waste - sometimes only 2-3 drops per roll. Budget for 25% extra and always order one additional roll.

How to Measure Your Room

1⃣ Measure Length

Measure the longest wall at floor level. Include chimney breasts and alcoves.

2⃣ Measure Width

Measure the perpendicular wall. Check at both ends as rooms aren't always square.

3⃣ Measure Height

Measure from floor to ceiling/picture rail. Check in several places for variations.

4⃣ Count Openings

Count doors and windows. Standard door: 0.9m wide. Standard window: 1.2m wide.

Pro Tips for Wallpapering Success

Before You Buy

Always order from the same batch number
Buy one extra roll for future repairs
Check the pattern repeat on the label
Order paste-the-wall for easier hanging
Consider lining paper for old walls

Measuring Tips

Measure height in multiple places
Add 5-10cm to each drop for trimming
Don't fully deduct small windows
Account for radiator recesses
Measure chimney breast separately

Pattern Matching

Start from the focal point of the room
Work outward from a true vertical
Number your cut lengths in order
Mark top of each length clearly
Use an odd strip at least visible corner

Common Wallpapering Mistakes to Avoid

Under-Ordering

Buying exactly the calculated amount leaves no room for error. Running out mid-job means buying from a different batch with potential colour variation. Always add one extra roll.

Ignoring Pattern Repeat

A 53cm pattern repeat on a 2.4m wall means significant waste per drop. Failing to account for this leads to running out. Check pattern repeat on label.

Mixing Batch Numbers

Wallpaper from different production runs can have subtle colour differences that become obvious when hung side by side. Check all rolls have same batch number.

Poor Wall Preparation

Skipping lining paper on uneven walls, not filling cracks, or papering over damp leads to bubbling and peeling. Prepare walls properly before starting.

Quick Reference: Rolls by Room Type

Approximate wallpaper rolls needed for typical UK rooms (standard 2.4m ceiling, plain wallpaper):

Room Type	Typical Size	Perimeter	Plain Paper	With Pattern
Box Room	2.5m × 2m	9m	4 rolls	5-6 rolls
Single Bedroom	3.6m × 3m	13.2m	5-6 rolls	7-8 rolls
Double Bedroom	4.2m × 3.6m	15.6m	6-7 rolls	8-9 rolls
Master Bedroom	5m × 4m	18m	7-8 rolls	9-11 rolls
Small Living Room	4m × 3.5m	15m	6-7 rolls	8-9 rolls
Medium Living Room	5m × 4m	18m	7-8 rolls	10-12 rolls
Large Living Room	6m × 5m	22m	9-10 rolls	12-14 rolls
Dining Room	4.5m × 3.5m	16m	6-7 rolls	8-10 rolls
Hallway	2.5m × 2m	9m	4 rolls	5-6 rolls

Note: These are estimates based on typical UK room sizes. High ceilings (Victorian homes), large pattern repeats, or rooms with many windows/doors will require adjustment. Use the calculator above for accurate results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard UK wallpaper roll size? +

The standard UK wallpaper roll measures 10.05 metres long by 53 centimetres wide, giving approximately 5.3 square metres of coverage. This is also called the European metric standard and is what you'll find at B&Q, Homebase, and most UK wallpaper retailers. American wallpapers are different - typically 27 feet (8.2m) by 27 inches (68.5cm). Designer or luxury papers may come in wider rolls (70cm+). Always check the specifications before ordering.

How many wallpaper rolls for an average UK bedroom? +

For a typical UK double bedroom (4.2m × 3.6m with 2.4m ceiling), you need approximately 6-7 rolls of plain wallpaper or 8-9 rolls for patterned wallpaper. A smaller single bedroom (3.6m × 3m) needs about 5-6 rolls. These estimates include 10% waste and deductions for a door and window. For master bedrooms with en-suites or fitted wardrobes, wall coverage is often less than the room size suggests.

How do I calculate wallpaper with pattern repeat? +

Pattern repeat means additional wallpaper is needed to align the design across strips. For straight match patterns, add the repeat length to your wall height when calculating drops per roll. For half-drop patterns, add half the repeat length. Example: A 2.4m wall with 53cm straight match repeat needs 2.93m per drop (2.4 + 0.53), giving only 3 drops per roll instead of 4. Large repeats (50cm+) can reduce drops per roll significantly, sometimes by 25-30%.

Should I deduct for doors and windows? +

Small windows: Don't deduct - the offcuts around them are often unusable anyway, and having extra is safer. Large windows (bay windows): Deduct about half the area. Standard doors: Deduct about 0.5 of a roll per door. French doors/patio doors: Deduct 1-1.5 rolls. As a general rule, being conservative with deductions is wiser than running short. Extra rolls can be returned (check shop policy) or kept for repairs.

What's the difference between straight match and half-drop? +

Straight match: The pattern lines up horizontally at the same height across all strips. Common for stripes, geometric patterns, and simple repeating designs. Easier to hang with moderate waste. Half-drop match: The pattern on adjacent strips is offset by half the repeat height, creating a diagonal alignment effect. Creates a more flowing, less grid-like appearance. Popular for florals and organic patterns but creates more waste (typically 10-15% more than straight match).

How much extra wallpaper should I buy? +

Recommended extra allowance: Plain/random patterns: 10% extra. Small patterns (under 30cm repeat): 15% extra. Large patterns (over 50cm repeat): 20-25% extra. Always buy one additional roll regardless of calculation - this covers cutting errors, damaged sections, and future repairs. Many retailers allow unused rolls to be returned, but reordering from a different batch risks colour mismatch.

Why is batch number important? +

Wallpaper is printed in production batches, and each batch can have slight colour variations due to ink mixing, dye lot differences, or printing conditions. These variations may be subtle in the shop but become noticeable when hung side by side on a wall. Always check that all rolls have the same batch number printed on the label. When ordering online, specifically request all rolls from the same batch. If you must mix batches, use different batches on opposite walls or behind furniture.

How many drops per roll can I get? +

With a standard UK roll (10.05m) and typical 2.4m ceiling: Plain wallpaper: 4 drops per roll (2.4m × 4 = 9.6m, leaving room for trimming). With 30cm pattern repeat: 3-4 drops. With 53cm pattern repeat: 3 drops. With 64cm+ pattern repeat: 2-3 drops. Higher ceilings reduce drops per roll. Victorian homes with 3m ceilings typically get only 3 drops of plain paper or 2 drops with large patterns.

Official UK Resources

Trusted sources for wallpapering guidance and standards:

B&Q Wallpaper Guide

Comprehensive DIY wallpapering guides, how-to videos, and buying guides from the UK's largest home improvement retailer.

Visit B&Q Guide →

Dulux Decorating Advice

Expert advice on wall preparation, lining paper, and achieving professional results from leading UK paint brand.

Visit Dulux →

Wickes How-To Guides

Step-by-step instructions for measuring rooms, hanging wallpaper, and tackling corners and obstacles.

Visit Wickes →

Homebase Decorating Tips

Practical guides on wallpaper selection, pattern matching, and professional finishing techniques.

Visit Homebase →

Wallpaper History Society

Historical and preservation guidance for period properties and heritage wallpaper restoration in the UK.

Visit WHS →

Which? Home Advice

Independent consumer advice on hiring decorators, quality wallpaper brands, and getting value for money.

Visit Which? →

About This Wallpaper Calculator

This wallpaper calculator is designed specifically for UK homeowners and decorators. It uses the standard UK/European wallpaper roll size (10.05m × 53cm) to provide accurate roll estimates for any room. The calculator accounts for pattern repeat waste, includes deductions for doors and windows, and adds appropriate waste allowance for cutting and mistakes.

Whether you're wallpapering a feature wall, entire bedroom, or tackling a full house renovation, our calculator helps you order the right amount. The quick estimate feature uses typical UK room dimensions, while the detailed calculators allow precise measurements for accurate results.

Important: This calculator provides estimates based on standard UK wallpaper rolls. Designer, American, or extra-wide wallpapers may have different dimensions. Always check the roll size on your chosen wallpaper and adjust accordingly. When in doubt, round up and buy an extra roll - most retailers accept returns of unopened rolls, and having a spare is invaluable for future repairs.

Pro Tips for Accurate Results

Double-check your input values before calculating
Use the correct unit format (metric or imperial)
For complex calculations, break them into smaller steps
Bookmark this page for quick future access

Understanding Your Results

Our Wallpaper Calculator provides:

Instant calculations - Results appear immediately
Accurate formulas - Based on official UK standards
Clear explanations - Understand how results are derived
2025/26 updated - Using current rates and regulations

Common Questions

Is this calculator free?

Yes, all our calculators are 100% free to use with no registration required.

Are the results accurate?

Our calculators use verified formulas and are regularly updated for accuracy.

Can I use this on mobile?

Yes, all calculators are fully responsive and work on any device.

Wallpaper Calculator UK | How Many Rolls Do I Need? 2025