How Much Flooring for a 16x20 Room?

A 16 × 20 ft room is 320 ft². With 10% waste you need 352.0 ft² of flooring, which is 18 boxes at 20 ft² per box.

Your project

ft²

On the box. Planks usually come 15 to 25 ft² per box.

$

Example only. Use your quote.

Results

Boxes to buy
18 boxes
360.0 ft² in total
Flooring needed (with waste)
352.0 ft²
Room area
320.0 ft²

Cost

Estimated material cost
$1,080.00
  • Waste covers cuts at walls and doorways, bad pieces, and the last-row trimming. Buy an extra box if you may want to repair the floor later.

Flooring for a 16 × 20 ft room (320 ft²)

Box counts depend on how much each box holds, which is printed on the box (20 to 25 ft² is common for laminate and vinyl plank).

Layout and wasteFlooring to buyBoxes at 20 ft²Boxes at 24 ft²Boxes at 30 ft²
5% (Straight, simple room)336.0 ft²171412
7% (Typical room)342.4 ft²181512
10% (Diagonal or many cuts)352.0 ft²181512
15% (Herringbone or patterns)368.0 ft²191613

Before you buy

Measure into doorways and closets, and buy one extra box for future repairs, since dye lots vary. Let the flooring acclimate in the room for as long as the maker says. See the waste factors guide.

Want to change anything else? The calculator above is the full Flooring Calculator: edit any number and the results update instantly.

Tools & materials for this project

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Frequently asked questions

How many boxes of flooring for a 16x20 room?

18 boxes at 20 ft² per box, including 10% waste (352.0 ft² needed for 320 ft² of floor). With 24 ft² boxes it is 15.

How much extra flooring should I buy for a 16x20 room?

5 to 10% for a simple straight layout, and 15% for diagonal or herringbone. For this room, 10% adds 32.0 ft².

How many square feet is a 16x20 room?

320 square feet (16 × 20). Add other rooms, hallways and closets you will floor, and measure into doorways.

Related sizes and guides

Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.