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How to Calculate Wallpaper Rolls
Calculating wallpaper is more involved than calculating paint because you need to account for pattern repeats, strip widths, and the fixed length of each roll. Getting it right means you will not run out mid-project or end up with expensive leftover rolls that cannot be returned.
The calculation works as follows: first, measure the room's perimeter and divide by the roll width to find out how many strips you need. Then, work out how many usable strips you can cut from each roll by dividing the roll length by the strip height (plus pattern repeat waste). Finally, divide the total strips by the strips per roll and round up.
Understanding Standard UK Wallpaper Roll Sizes
In the United Kingdom, wallpaper rolls come in standardised sizes. The most common is the standard roll, which is 10.05 metres long and 0.53 metres wide. This gives a total area of approximately 5.3 square metres per roll. However, you never get the full 5.3 m² of usable wallpaper because of trimming, pattern matching, and the strips around doors and windows.
| Roll Type | Width | Length | Area per Roll |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard UK | 0.53m (53cm) | 10.05m | ~5.3 m² |
| European Wide | 0.70m (70cm) | 10.05m | ~7.0 m² |
| Extra Wide | 1.06m (106cm) | 10.05m | ~10.7 m² |
| American | 0.68m (27in) | 8.23m (27ft) | ~5.6 m² |
What Is a Pattern Repeat and Why Does It Matter?
A pattern repeat is the vertical distance between two identical points in the wallpaper design. When you hang patterned wallpaper, each strip must be aligned with the one next to it so the pattern flows seamlessly across the wall. This alignment creates waste because you often need to trim a section from the start of each strip to match the pattern.
Pattern repeats are measured in centimetres and printed on the wallpaper label. Common sizes include:
- No repeat (plain or textured): Zero waste from pattern matching. Most economical choice.
- Small repeat (up to 15cm): Minimal waste — typically one extra roll per room.
- Medium repeat (15–30cm): Moderate waste — may need 1–2 extra rolls.
- Large repeat (30–64cm): Significant waste — can require 2–4 extra rolls. Dramatic patterns look stunning but cost more.
Straight Match vs Half-Drop Match
There are two types of pattern matching. A straight match means the pattern aligns at the same point on each strip — left edge to left edge. A half-drop match means every other strip is offset by half the pattern repeat, creating a diagonal flow. Half-drop patterns use more wallpaper because of the additional offset, and our calculator accounts for this by using the full repeat distance.
Paste Types — What Is the Difference?
Modern wallpapers use one of two application methods:
Paste the Paper (Traditional)
You apply paste to the back of the wallpaper, fold it (a process called "booking"), and leave it to soak for 5–10 minutes before hanging. This method works with most vinyl, paper, and embossed wallpapers.
- Wider range of designs available
- Soaking time lets the paper expand before hanging
- More difficult for beginners — paper can stretch, tear, or bubble
Paste the Wall
You apply paste directly to the wall and hang the dry wallpaper straight onto it. This method uses non-woven (fleece-backed) wallpaper, which is dimensionally stable and does not stretch when wet.
- Much easier for DIYers — no pasting table needed
- Faster — no soaking time
- Easier to reposition before the paste sets
- Strips peel off cleanly when you eventually redecorate
Tips for Wallpapering Success
- Always buy all rolls from the same batch: Check the batch number on the label. Different batches of the same design can have subtle colour variations that become obvious when hung side by side.
- Start from a focal wall: Begin hanging from the centre of the most prominent wall and work outwards. Pattern mismatches should end up in the least visible corner.
- Use a plumb line: Do not trust that your walls are perfectly vertical. Use a plumb line or spirit level to mark a true vertical starting line.
- Invest in a decent wallpaper brush: A proper smoothing brush or plastic smoother removes air bubbles far more effectively than a cloth.
- Wipe excess paste immediately: Paste left on the face of wallpaper can leave marks, especially on matt or dark-coloured papers. Keep a damp sponge handy.
Frequently Asked Questions
A standard UK wallpaper roll is 10.05 metres long and 0.53 metres wide, giving approximately 5.3 square metres per roll. Some designer and wide-width wallpapers come in rolls of 0.70m or 1.06m width. Always check the label before buying.
A typical 3m x 4m room with 2.4m ceilings needs approximately 8–10 standard rolls (no pattern repeat). With a large pattern repeat, expect 10–13 rolls. Use our calculator for an exact figure based on your room.
A pattern repeat is the distance between identical points in a wallpaper design. When hanging, you must align patterns between strips, creating waste from each roll. A 53cm repeat can waste up to 25% more wallpaper compared to a plain design.
Paste-the-wall (non-woven) is easier for DIYers — no soaking, dimensionally stable, easier to reposition. Paste-the-paper (traditional) needs soaking time and is more prone to stretching but offers a wider range of designs and is often cheaper.