Wallpaper Calculator
Work out how many rolls of wallpaper you need for a room. Accounts for pattern repeat, doors, and windows. Standard NZ rolls are 10m x 0.53m.
About this calculator
This calculator implements wallpaper roll coverage and pattern repeat from Resene + wallpaper manufacturers. Last consulted 15 November 2025. Verify the figures yourself by following the link.
Wallpaper roll specifications
Standard NZ roll- •Standard roll size: 10m × 0.53m = 5.3 m²
- •Effective coverage (with repeat): ~4-5 m² (varies by pattern)
- •Pattern repeat: 0-64 cm typical
- •Roll cost (budget): $30-60
- •Roll cost (designer): $100-300+
- •Hanging cost (pro): $30-50/roll
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for general information purposes only. Results are based on standard formulas and may not reflect your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
How wallpaper rolls are calculated
Standard roll: 10m × 0.53m = 5.3m² coverage (no pattern repeat). Pattern repeat reduces usable coverage. Always round UP.
- 1
Wall area to cover
Area = (perimeter × height) − doors − windows
Subtract door (~2m²) and window (~1-2m²) areas.
- 2
Account for pattern repeat
Effective coverage = 5.3 − (pattern_repeat_cm × roll_width)
Big patterns waste more — round up generously.
- 3
Calculate rolls needed
Rolls = ⌈total_area ÷ effective_coverage⌉ + 1 spare
Always +1 for repairs / mistakes.
Worked example
Inputs: 30m² walls, no pattern repeat
Result: 30 ÷ 5.3 = 5.66 → 6 rolls + 1 spare = 7 rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many rolls of wallpaper do I need for a room?
How does pattern repeat affect how much wallpaper I need?
Should I hire a professional or hang wallpaper myself?
A wallpaper calculator estimates the number of rolls needed to cover a room. Standard NZ wallpaper rolls are 10m long and 0.53m wide. Pattern repeat reduces the usable length, so heavier patterns need more rolls.
How this calculator works
Enter the room dimensions and ceiling height, the wallpaper roll size, and the pattern repeat. The calculator works out the wall area (minus doors and windows), divides by the usable area per roll, and rounds up.
Wallpaper Coverage (Standard NZ Roll)
| Roll size | 10m × 0.53m = 5.3 m² |
| Usable per drop (2.4m ceiling) | ~2 drops per roll |
| Pattern repeat (random) | Full 5.3 m² usable |
| Pattern repeat 30cm | ~4.5 m² usable |
| Pattern repeat 60cm | ~4 m² usable |
Worked Examples
Bedroom 4m × 3.5m × 2.4m high, 30cm pattern repeat, 1 standard door, 1 window
~8 rolls needed
- Wall perimeter: 2 × (4 + 3.5) = 15m
- Wall area: 15 × 2.4 = 36 m²
- Less door (2 m²) and window (1.5 m²): 32.5 m²
- Usable per roll with 30cm repeat: ~4.5 m²
- Rolls needed: 32.5 / 4.5 = 7.2 → round up to 8
Built and maintained by Konstantin Iakovlev. Data sourced from the IRD and official New Zealand government sources.
Last reviewed: