How many packs of laminate flooring do I need for a 20m² room?

A 20m² room usually requires between 10 and 12 packs, depending on the pack size (which is often around 2m²). Always add 10% for cuts and wastage, making the total required area 22m².

Why do I need a 10% waste factor for laminate?

When fitting laminate, you will have to cut planks to fit the edges of the room. The off-cuts from the end of a row can often be used to start the next row, but around obstacles like radiator pipes and door frames, some material will inevitably be lost.

Do I really need to leave an expansion gap?

Yes. Laminate flooring is a 'floating floor' and will expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. You must leave a 10mm gap around the entire perimeter, which is then covered by your skirting boards or scotia beading.

Which underlay should I use for laminate flooring?

For wooden subfloors, a standard foam underlay is fine. For concrete subfloors, you MUST use an underlay with a built-in damp proof membrane (DPM) to prevent moisture from damaging the boards.

How many packs of laminate flooring do I need for a 20m² room?

A 20m² room usually requires between 10 and 12 packs, depending on the pack size (which is often around 2m²). Always add 10% for cuts and wastage, making the total required area 22m².

Why do I need a 10% waste factor for laminate?

When fitting laminate, you will have to cut planks to fit the edges of the room. The off-cuts from the end of a row can often be used to start the next row, but around obstacles like radiator pipes and door frames, some material will inevitably be lost.

Do I really need to leave an expansion gap?

Yes. Laminate flooring is a 'floating floor' and will expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. You must leave a 10mm gap around the entire perimeter, which is then covered by your skirting boards or scotia beading.

Which underlay should I use for laminate flooring?

For wooden subfloors, a standard foam underlay is fine. For concrete subfloors, you MUST use an underlay with a built-in damp proof membrane (DPM) to prevent moisture from damaging the boards.

Laminate Flooring Calculator

Plan your flooring project with accurate pack counts and accessory estimates.

Room Length (m)

Room Width (m)

Pack Coverage (m² per pack)

Check the label on your chosen flooring pack.

Waste Factor (%)10%

Requirements Summary

UK Fitting Tip:

Laminate needs to "acclimatise". Store your packs in the room where they'll be fitted for 48 hours before starting the job.

Laminate Fitting Guide: Packs, Underlay & Scotia

Measuring Your Room

To calculate your flooring needs, measure the maximum length and width of your room. If your room is L-shaped, split it into two rectangles, calculate each area separately, and add them together.

Remember to measure into door recesses and bay windows to ensure you have enough coverage for the entire floor surface.

Standard UK Specs

Avg. Pack Coverage~2.1m²

Standard Expansion Gap10mm

Acclimatisation Time48 Hours

Choosing the Right Underlay

Underlay is not optional. It provides a level surface, acts as a thermal barrier, and significantly reduces impact noise (important for upstairs rooms).

In the UK, if you are laying laminate over a concrete floor, you must use an underlay with a vapour barrier to protect the flooring from rising damp.

Scotia & Beading

If you aren't removing your existing skirting boards, you will need 'Scotia' beading to cover the 10mm expansion gap. This is usually sold in 2.4m lengths.

Door Thresholds

Don't forget the door bars (thresholds). You will need these to transition between different rooms or different types of flooring (e.g., laminate to carpet).

Pro Tip: Acclimatisation

Laminate is made of wood fibres which expand in the warmth of your home. If you fit it immediately after it arrives from a cold warehouse, it will expand and 'peak' (push up) within days. Always let it sit in the room for 48 hours.

Laminate Flooring FAQ

Installation Disclaimer

Pack coverage varies significantly between brands (usually 1.5m² to 2.5m²). Always check the specific pack coverage on your chosen product. Our calculator provides an estimate based on your inputs; we recommend buying one extra pack just in case.