What is a standard UK wallpaper roll size?

The standard UK wallpaper roll is 10 metres long and 520mm (0.52m) wide. European rolls are typically the same dimensions. Some designer or specialist papers differ, always check the roll label and enter the actual dimensions in this calculator for accurate results.

What is a pattern repeat and how does it affect rolls needed?

A pattern repeat is the vertical distance between one point of a pattern and the next identical point. A larger repeat (e.g. 64cm) wastes more paper per drop because each strip must align with the previous one. This calculator adds the pattern repeat to each drop height to account for matching waste. For plains (repeat = 0), there is no waste.

Should I buy extra rolls of wallpaper?

Yes, always buy at least one extra roll from the same batch (dye lot). Batch colours vary slightly between production runs, making future matching difficult. Extra rolls allow you to patch damage. Many retailers accept unopened rolls for return, buy extra and return what you do not use.

Do I subtract doors and windows from the wallpaper calculation?

This calculator lets you subtract standard door and window openings. Each opening is treated as one strip width (0.52m) at full room height. For very large openings such as patio doors or bay windows, subtract an additional opening. You should still buy one extra roll as a safety margin.

How do I measure my room for wallpaper?

Measure the total perimeter of all walls you want to paper in metres. Measure ceiling height from skirting board to ceiling cornice (or ceiling if no cornice). Note the pattern repeat from the wallpaper label. This calculator works for rectangular rooms, for L-shaped or complex rooms, measure each section separately.

Updated 1 May 2026

Wallpaper Calculator · Free UK Rolls Needed

Calculate exactly how many rolls of wallpaper you need, with pattern repeat matching and deductions for doors and windows. Instant results.

✓ Free to use✓ Pattern repeat✓ Door & window deductions✓ Instant results

Wallpaper Calculator

Enter room dimensions and pattern repeat. Rolls needed appears instantly

Room perimeter (m)

Ceiling height (m)

Pattern repeat (cm)

Doors & windows (openings)

Custom roll size (default: 10m × 520mm)

Roll length (m)

Roll width (mm)

Rolls needed

6 rolls

Recommended: 7 rolls (includes 1 spare for repairs)

Room perimeter

12 m

Roll width

520 mm

Total drops

Less openings

−2

Usable drops needed

Drop height + repeat

2.40 m

Drops per roll

Rolls needed

Recommended (+ spare)

Always buy rolls from the same dye lot. Purchase at least one spare roll. Large pattern repeats increase waste significantly, allow extra for complex patterns or angled ceilings.

How to Calculate Wallpaper Rolls

Quick Answer: Divide room perimeter by roll width (0.52m) to get total drops. Subtract door/window openings. Divide roll length (10m) by drop height (ceiling height + pattern repeat) to get drops per roll. Divide drops needed by drops per roll and round up. Always buy one extra roll.

Formula

Rolls = ⌈(perimeter ÷ roll width − openings) ÷ (roll length ÷ (height + repeat))⌉

e.g. 12m ÷ 0.52m = 23 drops − 2 = 21 usable; 10 ÷ (2.4 + 0.32) = 3 per roll → 7 rolls

Worked Example: 12m perimeter, 2.4m ceiling, 32cm repeat, 2 doors

Room perimeter12 m

Roll width0.52 m

Total drops (÷ 0.52)23 drops

Less 2 door openings21 usable drops

Drop height + repeat2.4 + 0.32 = 2.72 m

Drops per roll (10 ÷ 2.72)3 drops/roll

Rolls (21 ÷ 3 = 7)7 rolls + 1 spare = 8

Always buy at least one extra roll from the same dye lot for future repairs and matching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rolls needed = total drops ÷ drops per roll (rounded up). Total drops = room perimeter ÷ roll width (0.52m), minus openings. Drops per roll = roll length (10m) ÷ (ceiling height + pattern repeat). For example: a room with 12m perimeter, 2.4m ceilings, 32cm pattern repeat, and 2 door openings needs approximately 7–8 rolls.