Preparation – It’s a good idea to have a helper or two when measuring large spaces. Have a pencil with a good eraser, a tape measure, straight edge, and graph paper ready.
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Work clockwise – Start by recording the overall length of each wall, working to your right around the room. Label walls, windows, and doors with numbers.
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Width and height – At 36-inch high, record horizontal measurements of the walls, record the individual widths of windows, doors (see note below about trim), and appliances. When taking vertical measurements use the following guides: floor to the windowsill, windowsill to top of the window, and top of the window to ceiling. Be sure to get an overall vertical measurement from floor to ceiling. Both your vertical measurements should add up to the same number.
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Center permanent fixtures – mark the centerline of any permanent features in the room. Permanent fixtures can include sinks, range, wall oven, doors, windows, doors, closets, ducts, water lines, gas lines, drains, and outlets.
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Window and Door Trim. When measuring windows and doors don’t forget to include the trim around them. These moldings are considered part of the window or door. Always measure from the outside of the trim to the outside of the trim.
