1. What is Square Footage?

Square footage is a measurement of area expressed in square feet (sq ft). It's commonly used in construction, real estate, and interior design to measure floor space, wall areas, and other surfaces.

2. How to Calculate from Inches

The formula to convert inches to square feet is:

Where:

• 144 — Number of square inches in one square foot (12 inches × 12 inches)
• Length — Measurement in inches along one side
• Width — Measurement in inches along the perpendicular side

Explanation: Multiply the length by width to get square inches, then divide by 144 to convert to square feet.

3. Practical Applications

Details: This calculation is essential when working with materials measured in inches (like tiles or flooring) but needing to know coverage in square feet for purchasing or estimating purposes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both length and width in inches. Measurements should be in decimal format (e.g., 36.5 inches). The calculator automatically converts to square feet.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why divide by 144?
A: There are 144 square inches in one square foot (12 inches × 12 inches), so dividing by 144 converts square inches to square feet.

Q2: Can I use this for irregular shapes?
A: No, this only works for rectangles. For irregular shapes, break them down into rectangular sections and sum the areas.

Q3: How accurate should my measurements be?
A: For most projects, measuring to the nearest 1/8 inch (0.125) is sufficient. For precision work, measure to 1/16 inch (0.0625).

Q4: What if I have measurements in feet and inches?
A: Convert all measurements to inches first (e.g., 5 feet 6 inches = 66 inches) before using the calculator.

Q5: Does this work for three-dimensional measurements?
A: No, this calculates area only. For volume (cubic feet), you would need to include height and divide by 1728 (12×12×12).