To measure a house's square footage accurately, start by measuring the length and width of each room using a tape measure. Record these measurements and multiply the length by the width to calculate the area of each individual room. For areas with odd shapes, split them into rectangles or squares, measure accordingly, and then sum the areas. Don't forget to include additional spaces like hallways, closets, and finished basements for a comprehensive total. Finally, add all the areas together to determine the overall square footage of your house.
How To Measure A House Square Footage
Measure each room individually.
To measure a house's square footage accurately, begin by measuring each room individually. Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of each room, rounding to the nearest inch for precision. Multiply the length by the width to calculate the square footage of each room, then sum these figures to obtain the total square footage of the house. Remember to exclude unlivable spaces such as closets or utility areas to ensure your measurements accurately reflect usable living space.
Include staircases and closets.
To accurately measure a house's square footage, begin by measuring the exterior dimensions of each room, including areas like staircases and closets, which contribute to the total living space. For rooms, multiply the length by the width to obtain square footage and sum these values for all significant areas within the home. When measuring staircases, calculate the individual steps as part of the overall square footage, typically allocating space equal to the width and length of the staircase. Finally, remember to include closets, treating them as part of the room they belong to, thus ensuring a comprehensive total that reflects your home's true size.
Exclude basements and attics unless finished.
To measure a house's square footage, start by determining the length and width of each finished room on the main floors and multiply these dimensions to find the area for each space. Remember to exclude areas like basements and attics unless they are finished living spaces, as these do not typically contribute to the overall square footage. After calculating the area of each room, sum all the individual areas to obtain the total square footage of the house. This precise measurement will help you understand the usable space, aiding in evaluations for buying, selling, or renovating your home.
Measure exterior dimensions for accuracy.
To measure your house's square footage accurately, start by measuring the exterior dimensions. Use a tape measure to find the length and width of each side of the home's foundation, ensuring you take measurements at the base rather than from the walls or any protrusions. For an accurate calculation, multiply the length by the width to get the area of each rectangle (as most homes are rectangular). Finally, add up the square footage of all sections of your house, including any attached structures like garages or porches, to determine the total square footage of your home.
Include attached garages if heated.
To accurately measure the square footage of a house, start by calculating the dimensions of each individual room, including the length and width. Multiply these measurements to obtain the area for each room, and then sum those areas to get the total square footage. When measuring, it's essential to include attached garages, particularly if they are heated spaces, as this contributes to the livable area of the home. Remember to exclude any unheated areas, such as porches or unfinished basements, to ensure a precise representation of your property's usable living space.
Use a digital laser device for precision.
To measure your house's square footage accurately, begin by using a digital laser device, which ensures precise distance measurement. Position the laser device at one corner of the room and aim it toward the opposite corner, capturing the length of the room in a straightforward manner. Next, record the width at a right angle to the length, and multiply these dimensions to obtain the total area in square feet. Repeat this process for each room, then sum the individual areas to determine the overall square footage of your home.
Convert measurements to square feet.
To measure a house's square footage accurately, begin by measuring each room's length and width in feet, using a tape measure. For rectangular or square spaces, multiply the length by the width to get the area in square feet; for example, a room measuring 12 feet by 15 feet would have 180 square feet (12 x 15 = 180). If your space includes irregular shapes, break them into smaller rectangles or squares, calculate each area separately, and then sum the results. Remember to add all measurements together to obtain the total square footage of your home, ensuring to consider areas like closets and hallways for a comprehensive assessment.
Combine square footage of all floors.
To measure the total square footage of your house, start by determining the dimensions of each floor individually. Use a tape measure to find the length and width of each room and multiply these numbers to compute the area for each space. Next, sum the square footage of all rooms on the floor, including hallways and closets, to obtain the total for that level. Finally, repeat this process for each floor and combine the total areas for an accurate overall square footage of your home.
Exclude non-livable spaces like porches.
To accurately measure a house's square footage, first, focus exclusively on livable spaces, which omit areas like porches, balconies, and garages. Begin at one exterior wall and measure the length and width of each room in feet; multiply these dimensions for each individual room's square footage. Next, sum the square footage of all livable areas, ensuring to skip non-livable spaces to maintain accuracy. Your final total reflects only the areas conducive to everyday living.
Follow local or state measurement guidelines.
To accurately measure a house's square footage, start by following local or state measurement guidelines, which may vary by region. Typically, you will need to measure the exterior dimensions of the house in feet, ensuring to include all living spaces, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms, while excluding areas like garages or unfinished basements. Multiply the width by the length of each room to get their individual square footage, then sum these figures for the total square footage. For precise results, consider utilizing a laser measuring tool, which can enhance accuracy, especially in larger spaces.