To measure a wall for wallpaper, you need two numbers: the width, edge to edge, and the height, from the ceiling down to the top of the skirting board. Measure at both ends and top and bottom, then use the largest figure. We add 2.5 cm of trimmable bleed to every edge, so a centimetre out either way is fine.
Standard Wall Height in the UK
The standard ceiling height in a modern UK home is about 2.4 m (240 cm). Older and period homes are usually taller, around 2.6 to 2.7 m (260 to 270 cm), and some Victorian rooms go higher still. The wall you cover for a mural is a little shorter, because it stops at the skirting board. Always measure your own wall: heights vary between houses and even between rooms.
| Type of home | Typical ceiling height | Typical wall to measure (above the skirting) |
|---|---|---|
| Modern new build | 2.3 to 2.4 m (230 to 240 cm) | about 215 to 230 cm |
| 1930s to 1970s house | 2.4 to 2.5 m (240 to 250 cm) | about 225 to 240 cm |
| Victorian or Edwardian | 2.6 to 2.7 m (260 to 270 cm), sometimes more | about 245 to 260 cm |
These are typical figures, not rules. A skirting board is usually 10 to 15 cm tall.
All walls come in all shapes and sizes — but if your wall is smooth and flat, wallpaper can be applied. Just follow these simple steps to make sure you order the right size to brighten any room in your home.
Measuring Standard Walls for a Mural
For the width, measure your wall edge to edge. For the height, measure down from the ceiling to the top of your skirting board. We recommend taking measurements at both the extreme left and right (and top and bottom), as they often differ — always go with the largest.
Don't chase perfection. We print 2.5 cm of trimmable bleed onto every edge of your mural — so being a centimetre out either way is already forgiven.
Measuring a Slanted Wall for Wallpaper
Your wallpaper is supplied as a rectangle, so take the largest width and height and ignore any odd shapes — the excess is simply trimmed to fit. Consider how your image will sit in relation to your shaped wall.
Measuring Walls with Doors and/or Windows
Measure your wall exactly as you would a typical square or rectangular wall, then simply cut around doors, windows and any other obstacles when hanging.
Helpful Tips
Preparing your wall is fundamental to the finished quality of your wallpaper. Taking the extra time to make sure your wall is smooth and lump-free will enhance the result — wallpaper can only ever be as good as the surface it is laid on.
That's It — Two Numbers
Width and height: that's everything we need. Enter them on any mural page and the price updates live, with your crop shown to scale before you buy.
Browse wallpaper murals How to install →
Need Help?
We are always happy to help — get in touch with one of our team at help@featurewall.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard wall height in the UK?
Most modern UK homes have a ceiling height of about 2.4 m (240 cm). Older and period homes are usually taller, around 2.6 to 2.7 m (260 to 270 cm), and some Victorian rooms are higher still. Always measure your own wall, as heights vary from house to house and even between rooms.
How do I measure a wall for wallpaper?
Measure the width edge to edge and the height from the ceiling down to the top of the skirting board. Measure at both ends and top and bottom, and use the largest figure. We add 2.5 cm of trimmable bleed to every edge.
Do I measure from the floor or the skirting board?
Measure down to the top of the skirting board, as the mural stops there. A typical skirting board is 10 to 15 cm tall, so a wall in a room with a 240 cm ceiling usually measures around 225 to 230 cm.
How tall can a wallpaper mural be?
Our printed and delivered murals go up to 5 m tall and 20 m wide. A fitted One Piece mural, installed by our team, goes up to 3.1 m tall and 10 m wide.