What is a Linear Foot and How to Measure It?

Are you searching for a simple way to measure your property?

For example, if you are planning to list your home for sale, you need to create a detailed description. And one of the most important elements is describing the size of your home and the various rooms.

In the world of real estate, measurements are usually expressed in linear feet, which makes it easy to compare the sizes of different properties. 

So, let’s find out…

A Complete Guide

A foot is a standard unit of measurement that is exactly twelve inches. The word ‘linear’ is used to indicate that it is a measurement of a straight line. This is ideal when you are measuring the length of a wall, a room, a tabletop, or another straight object.

Measuring Tools

Before you make the measurement, you need to make sure you have the right tool. So, you’ll need to select something that will give you a measurement in feet or inches. The tool you choose will depend on the item that you want to measure.

Suitable measuring tools include:

If you are measuring a wall, it is best to use a measuring tape. This will make it easy to stretch the tape along the full height or length of the wall. However, a meterstick or yardstick is ideal for small edges. 

But, when you are measuring a straight line with several bends, you need to measure each individual straight edge. And trying to measure bumps and curves in the line can be very tricky. In addition, you are likely to find that your total calculation is inaccurate. 

So, how do you measure it accurately in Linear Feet?

After measuring each individual line, you need to add all the measurements together. So, it’s best to record each measurement as you go so that you don’t lose count. Otherwise, you may need to start the process all over again. 

Converting from inches 

If you are used to working in inches, measuring in linear feet may seem strange at first. So, you might be more comfortable measuring in inches and then converting to linear feet. Fortunately, this is a fairly quick and easy calculation.

First, measure the width and length of the item in inches. Then, you need to divide the total measurement by twelve. So, if you have nine inches, you will have ¾ of a linear foot. Six inches is half a linear foot, and so forth.

What is the Difference between Linear Feet and Square Feet?

Although these are two different units of measurement, both are used to describe areas of space. A square foot is a more common unit of measurement when describing the total size of a room. This gives potential buyers an idea of exactly how much space they would have to work with.

However, linear feet are used for straight lines and edges. It is more useful when you are planning to purchase furniture or decorate your home. And it is particularly useful when you are buying wallpaper, curtains, sofas, and tables. 

When Should You Use the Linear Foot Measurement?

There are several reasons why you might choose this measurement. The most common use is when you are selling your home, and you want to express the size of different areas. Here are some other times when this measurement is particularly useful. 

Lighting

Measuring the perimeter or border of a building or room is useful when designing lighting features. It can help you work out where to place spotlights, lamps, and ceiling lights. This will help to make sure your rooms are perfectly lit without dark and gloomy corners.

Interior Design

When choosing carpets and rugs, you need to make sure they are the perfect size for your room. Measuring the edges of your interior walls will make sure your rugs and carpets are not too big. It will also help you choose the right sofa to be placed along a particular wall, for example. 

Organization

The last thing you want is to purchase a new piece of furniture that’s too large for your room. This is essential when it comes to purchasing a new bed. So, you need to measure the walls the bed will fit against to ensure it is the perfect fit. 

Storage Space

Linear feet are also a useful measurement when it comes to storing items in a moving truck or closet. It will help you to work out how much space you have to work with. This helps to make sure that large items can be stored and positioned safely.

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Ok, back to…

Final Thoughts

When you are measuring your home, it’s important to be as precise as possible. This detailed information will help to capture the attention of potential buyers. They will be able to visualize how long walls and other features are more easily with this measurement.

Measuring in linear feet is also useful when you are working on home improvement projects. This will help you to work out how much paint you need to cover different walls, for example. Understanding linear feet will also ensure that you purchase enough material when you are making curtains and other soft furnishings.

Happy measuring!