Calculating the square footage of a two-story house can be a bit of a challenge, but it is a necessary step when buying or selling a home. Knowing the exact square footage of a property is important for determining its value, setting a fair price, and ensuring that the property is up to code. Whether you are a homeowner or a real estate agent, it is essential to know how to calculate the square footage of a two-story house accurately.

There are several methods for calculating the square footage of a two-story house, and each one has its pros and cons. Some methods involve measuring the exterior of the house, while others require measuring the interior. Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to be as accurate as possible to avoid any discrepancies in the final calculation. In this article, we will explore some of the most common methods for calculating the square footage of a two-story house and provide step-by-step instructions to help you get the most accurate results possible.

Understanding Square Footage

Square footage is a term used to describe the total area of a space. It is a measurement of the floor space within a building or room, and is typically expressed in square feet. Understanding the square footage of a 2-story house is important for a variety of reasons, such as determining the amount of materials needed for a renovation or calculating the value of a property.

To calculate the square footage of a 2-story house, one must first measure the length and width of each floor. The length is the longest dimension of the floor, while the width is the shortest dimension. Once these measurements are taken, they can be multiplied together to determine the total square footage of each floor.

It is important to note that not all areas of a house are included in the square footage calculation. For example, garages, attics, and unfinished basements are typically not included in the calculation. Additionally, rooms with sloping ceilings or irregular shapes may require additional calculations to determine the correct square footage.

Overall, understanding square footage is an important aspect of home ownership and renovation. By accurately calculating the square footage of a 2-story house, homeowners can make informed decisions about their property and ensure that they have the right amount of materials for their projects.

Preparing to Measure

Gather Materials

Before measuring the square footage of a 2 story house, it is important to gather the necessary materials. These materials include a measuring tape, paper, and a pencil. A laser measuring tool may also be used to make the process easier and more accurate.

Create a Measurement Plan

To ensure that all areas of the house are accurately measured, it is important to create a measurement plan. This plan should include a floor plan of the house, with each room labeled. The plan should also include a list of all the areas that need to be measured, including the length and width of each room, as well as any hallways or staircases.

Once the measurement plan is complete, it is important to take the time to review it carefully. This will help ensure that all areas of the house are accounted for and that no measurements are missed.

By gathering the necessary materials and creating a measurement plan, homeowners can ensure that they are prepared to accurately measure the square footage of their 2 story house.

Measuring the First Floor

Measuring the first floor of a two-story house is an essential step in calculating the total square footage of the house. To measure the first floor, follow these steps:

Outline the Perimeter

Start by outlining the perimeter of the first floor. This can be done by measuring the length of each wall and writing down the measurements. Next, measure the width of each wall and write down the measurements. Once you have these measurements, multiply the length of each wall by the width of the same wall Percentage to a Decimal Calculator get the area of each wall. Add up the area of all the walls to get the total area of the first floor.

Account for Irregularities

It is important to account for any irregularities in the first floor when measuring the square footage. This includes any alcoves, bay windows, or other features that protrude from the main structure of the house. To do this, measure the length and width of each irregularity and calculate its area. Then, subtract the area of each irregularity from the total area of the first floor to get an accurate measurement.

By following these steps, you can accurately measure the first floor of a two-story house and calculate its total square footage.

Measuring the Second Floor

When measuring the second floor of a two-story house, there are a few things to keep in mind. It's important to consider the layout of the second floor and any areas that may not be included in the total square footage.

Consider Staircase Area

One important factor to consider when measuring the second floor is the area taken up by the staircase. This area should be measured separately and subtracted from the total square footage of the second floor. It's important to measure the entire area taken up by the staircase, including any landings or turns.

Handle Varied Layouts

Another thing to keep in mind when measuring the second floor is that the layout may vary depending on the house. Some houses may have open areas or vaulted ceilings that extend over both floors, while others may have separate rooms or areas that are only accessible from the second floor. It's important to measure each area separately and add them together to get an accurate total square footage.

Overall, measuring the second floor of a two-story house requires careful consideration of the layout and any areas that may not be included in the total square footage. By taking the time to measure each area separately and subtracting any areas taken up by the staircase, you can get an accurate measurement of the total square footage of the second floor.

Calculating Total Square Footage

Calculating the total square footage of a two-story house involves adding up the square footage of each floor. Here are the steps to follow:

Combine Floor Measurements

First, measure the length and width of each floor separately. Then, multiply the length and width of each room to get the square footage of that room. Add up the square footage of all the rooms on each floor to get the total square footage of that floor.

Next, add the square footage of both floors together to get the total square footage of the house. It is important to note that the square footage of the second floor is usually smaller than that of the first floor due to the presence of staircases, so it is crucial to measure each floor separately.

Adjust for Partial Stories

If the house has a partial story, such as an attic or a basement, it is important to adjust the square footage accordingly. For example, if the attic has a sloping roof, only measure the floor space where the ceiling height is at least 7 feet. If the basement has a low ceiling, only measure the floor space where the ceiling height is at least 7 feet.

It is also important to note that some rooms may have different ceiling heights, such as a two-story living room or a room with a vaulted ceiling. In this case, measure the square footage of each section of the room separately and add them together to get the total square footage of the room.

By following these steps and adjusting for partial stories, one can accurately calculate the total square footage of a two-story house.

Dealing with Attached Structures

When calculating the square footage of a 2-story house, it is important to consider any attached structures such as garages and porches. The following subsections provide guidance on whether to include or exclude these structures from the overall square footage calculation.

Include Garages and Porches

If a garage or porch is attached to the main house and is accessible through the house, it can be included as part of the total square footage. The appraiser should measure the area of the garage or porch and add it to the square footage of the main house.

Exclude Unfinished Areas

Unfinished areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces should not be included in the total square footage calculation. Only finished areas that are heated and cooled and have a ceiling height of at least 7 feet should be included.

It is important to note that including or excluding attached structures and unfinished areas can have a significant impact on the overall square footage calculation. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with an appraiser or a real estate professional to ensure an accurate calculation.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Calculating the square footage of a 2-story house can be a tricky task, and even the pros make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overlooking Irregularities

One of the most common mistakes when calculating square footage is overlooking irregularities in the shape of the house. For example, if the house has a bay window or a rounded wall, the square footage calculation can be incorrect if these areas are not measured and included in the calculation. Therefore, it is important to measure all areas of the house, including any irregularities.

Using Incorrect Units

Another common mistake when calculating square footage is using incorrect units. For example, if the measurements are in feet but the calculation is done in inches, the result will be incorrect. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the units of measurement are consistent throughout the calculation.

Not Accounting for Staircases

When calculating the square footage of a 2-story house, it is important to account for the staircase. The area of the staircase should be included in the calculation to ensure an accurate result.

Forgetting to Add the Two Levels

It may seem obvious, but another common mistake is forgetting to add the total area of both levels together. This can result in an incorrect calculation and an inaccurate representation of the square footage of the house.

Not Double-Checking the Calculations

Finally, it is important to double-check the calculations to ensure accuracy. Even small errors can result in a significant difference in the final result. Therefore, it is recommended to double-check the calculations and ensure that all measurements are accurate before finalizing the calculation.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, anyone can calculate the square footage of a 2-story house with confidence and accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you measure the square footage of each level in a multi-story home?

To measure the square footage of each level in a multi-story home, you need to measure the length and width of each room on each level. Then, calculate the area of each room by multiplying the length by the width. Finally, add up the areas of all the rooms on each level to get the total square footage for that level.

What parts of the house are generally excluded when calculating square footage?

Generally, the parts of the house that are excluded when calculating square footage are the garage, unfinished basement, and attic spaces that are not finished or heated. Additionally, any outdoor living spaces such as patios, decks, and porches are also excluded.

Are both floors included when calculating the square footage of a two-story house?

Yes, both floors are included when calculating the square footage of a two-story house. To calculate the total square footage of a two-story house, you need to add up the total area for both floors.

What is the standard method for calculating the square footage for home appraisal?

The standard method for calculating the square footage for home appraisal is to measure the exterior walls of the house at the foundation level, including any finished areas such as garages. This measurement is then adjusted to account for any interior walls that are not load-bearing and any spaces that are not considered living spaces, such as garages and unfinished basements.

How can you accurately calculate the square footage of your home online?

To accurately calculate the square footage of your home online, you can use online calculators that take into account the total area of each room in your home. You can also use satellite images and floor plans to get a rough estimate of the square footage of your home.

Does the square footage of a house include the basement or attic space?

The square footage of a house generally includes only the finished and heated living spaces, such as bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens. Unfinished and unheated spaces such as basements and attics are not usually included in the square footage of a house.