How to Calculate Linear Feet of Wall Space
When installing molding, wainscoting, wallpaper or other decorative elements, it is important to know a wall's measurements in linear feet. When hanging art in galleries or displaying merchandise for sale in a retail space, it is important to know the amount of usable wall space.
A linear foot is a measurement which is used to calculate the total length of a wall without concern for its height or any other factor. To calculate your total wall space in linear feet, you will require a bit of mathematical ability and some basic tools.
Things You Will Need
- Tape measure
- Calculator
Tip
Carpet, flooring and molding are all sold in linear feet.
Warning
Be careful not to mix measurements when adding your recorded sums. For example, if one area measures 11 inches and another measures 2 feet, make sure to convert the feet to inches before adding the two.
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Use your tape measure to record the length of your wall in inches. Measure the full distance from one end of the wall to the other.
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Use your tape measure to record the length of every portion of the wall's surface in inches. For example, if your wall turns a corner, has a protruding notch, or a recessed notch, each of these must be measured as well. The idea is to measure and record every inch of the wall's surface in a straight line, from one end to the other, including its bends and edges.
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Use your calculator to add up each of the measurements obtained in steps 1 and 2. Divide the sum by 12 inches to convert it into feet. The sum will equal the total wall space in linear feet.
The Drip Cap
- When installing molding, wainscoting, wallpaper or other decorative elements, it is important to know a wall's measurements in linear feet.
- Use your tape measure to record the length of every portion of the wall's surface in inches.
- Divide the sum by 12 inches to convert it into feet.
References
Writer Bio
Robert Morello has an extensive travel, marketing and business background. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University in 2002 and has worked in travel as a guide, corporate senior marketing and product manager and travel consultant/expert. Morello is a professional writer and adjunct professor of travel and tourism.
Photo Credits
- Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
- Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
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