The difference between a running meter and a meter. What does running meter mean?

  • 17.06.2019

1 linear meter - the average price of a meter in length. Used when calculating the cost of a product to order for 1 meter.

Linear meter of the kitchen- a meter in length, this is a CONDITIONAL UNIT OF MEASURING THE KITCHEN of a standard small kitchen with a minimum set of elements. And this means the conditional price per meter, which usually includes: a kitchen made of chipboard, without finishing, with a minimum internal filling of cabinets, lower and upper cabinets with hinged doors, 1 shelf, countertop, a bar for hanging shelves. Sometimes they include plinth, handles, plinth.

Before buying a kitchen

  • We ask what this store includes in a standard linear meter and what height is the standard;
  • We measure the length of our kitchen and choose the height!
  • We multiply the length of the kitchen by the running meter at the selected height.
Linear meter cuisineit is a meter of kitchen furniture installed along the wall. Often the length is called the width of the kitchen and vice versa, but it is important to understand that this is a kitchen from one end to the other when you look at it from front side. (left to right or right to left). That is, the longest part of the kitchen (length).

How do sellers initially consider a running meter of a kitchen? A standard kitchen with a minimum set of drawers, a minimum height and a minimum length and width is taken and its cost is calculated, then divided by meters. (For example, a 3x2 kitchen costs 10,000 rubles, then a running meter will cost 3,333 rubles, respectively, if there are more meters, and drawers and kitchen heights, other material, then the price is greater.) The length of the kitchen is multiplied by the cost of a running meter, which Each store has its own rules.

Manufacturers often include the simplest and cheapest materials in a running meter of a kitchen.


The cost of a running meter of the kitchen is NOT included: backlight panel, socle, cornice, wall panel, wall plinth, sinks, ovens.

Running meter - how much? The nuances of the calculation

Before going to the store, measure the length of the kitchen on the plinth.

Ask what is included in the standard kitchen, according to which the linear meter of the kitchen set was calculated.

When calculating, the low version of the kitchen is taken (up to 72 cm), and the most dimensional parts of the kitchen.

You can find out the price of a running meter of a kitchen by dividing the cost of the kitchen by a meter of the kitchen along the length (along the wall).

Find out the price of the kitchen custom size you can multiply the length of the kitchen set by the cost of a linear meter of the kitchen (but you need to take into account the separate cost of fittings and the different cost of different materials).

The price of any kitchen can be reduced or increased by collecting it differently.

Each of us at least once in our lives had a chance to make repairs or purchase new furniture. And quite often when buying certain building materials we heard about such a unit of measurement as a running meter. Such a concept confuses almost everyone, and it is rather difficult to immediately determine how this value differs from a square meter. You cannot find out what a running meter is from a dictionary, because this concept was invented by manufacturers of goods. But in this material we will understand what this unit of measurement is.

This parameter represents the usual length of one meter for products with a certain width, such as fabric or linoleum. And it is much easier to calculate the cost of goods in linear meters than in square meters. For example, you need to buy a piece of carpet of a certain length with a width of 2.5 meters. In this case, it will not be very convenient to calculate square meters, because you will need to calculate the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe product, and then divide it into squares. In general, to carry out rather complex mathematical calculations.

With a running meter, everything is simple and in order to find out the cost of a product, you just need to multiply this unit of measurement by the length of the segment.

The linear meter is most often used to calculate the cost of such goods:

  • the cloth;
  • linoleum;
  • carpet;
  • finishing film and polyethylene for greenhouses;
  • electrical cable;
  • finished furniture;
  • various cornices and pipes;
  • railings and metal fences.

Most consumers believe that only rolled materials can be calculated in linear meters. And such an assumption cannot be considered absolutely wrong, because in most cases we are faced with this measure when buying similar products with a specific width. But running meters quite often calculate the cost of furniture.

Let's consider an example for clarity. The furniture manufacturer approximately calculated that to fill the kitchen with a length of three meters, taking into account all the cabinets, shelves, doors and fittings, it would be necessary to use materials worth 30 thousand rubles. This means that one meter of furniture will cost 10 thousand - this cost is the price per linear meter. And thanks to such simple mathematical calculations, the manufacturer can immediately indicate to the customer how much this or that set of standard sample will cost him.

But there is one caveat here, the cost of a running meter includes the price of the cheapest material and accessories, and sometimes the latter is generally not taken into account. So if you see a too tempting offer, then you should learn more specifically about the content of the goods. After all, this technique is often used only to attract new customers.


We know what this unit of measurement is from school desk. And remember that a square meter is needed to measure the area of ​​various figures. And in fact, this measure is relevant for measuring any building materials and furniture. And if the width of the product practically does not affect the linear meter, then for a square this value is of great importance. For example, you need to lay linoleum in a room with a length of 3 meters and a width of 2.5. By simple mathematical calculations, we find out that the cut is 2.5 * 3 = 7.5 square meters.

This unit measures:

  • area of ​​the room;
  • area of ​​flooring surfaces;
  • area of ​​facing materials;
  • area occupied by furniture.

As for furniture, this unit of measurement is especially relevant for small kitchens, where the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe headset plays a very important role.


Quite often, when buying certain materials, we need to convert one unit of measure to another and vice versa. But how to do this, because a linear meter is, in fact, a unit of length, while a square meter is an area. Do not despair, because it will be much easier to do than it seems.

In order to convert a linear meter to a square meter, you will need to know the exact width of the product, which the manufacturer takes as standard. And if everything is quite simple with the calculation of linoleum or carpet - we divide one linear meter by the width of the product and get the number of square meters, then with the calculation of furniture you will have to tinker a bit.


For example, in order to find out how many "squares" are contained in a standard kitchen 5 meters long. You will need to measure the width of the floor elements, not the height kitchen set. Let's say it is standard 60 cm (0.6 meters). Now you need to multiply these parameters among themselves: 5 * 0.6 = 3 square meters. So in a simple way you will be able to calculate the area occupied by the kit and measured by "squares".

Counting Materials to Do repair work many are accustomed to produce in square meters, which at first glance is quite logical - in this way the actual area of ​​\u200b\u200bfinishing is determined. However, during a store visit, the calculation created on paper may be useless, since the price is usually indicated not per square meter, but per running meter. "How much is this?" - an inexperienced buyer will ask, and it’s good if he hears a clear and intelligible answer from the seller. In order not to be in a stupor and not to start "on the knee" to count the number required material, it is better to prepare in advance, clearly understanding the terminology and its practical application.

A similar term is used not only by sellers of construction stores, but also by foremen of repair teams when they bill for materials and work done. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to independently perform calculations in order to be able to verify the correctness of the estimates provided.

Ability to correctly measure and calculate expendable materials- an important aspect of repair activities

Reference terminology

A running meter is a conventional unit of measurement for long objects, which corresponds to a piece or segment 1 meter long. The most common molded products include the following materials:

  • wallpaper;
  • carpet;
  • the cloth;
  • plinth;
  • pipe;
  • electrical cable;
  • corrugated board;
  • wooden planks etc.

With the help of running meters, only the length of the product is determined, while other parameters (width, diameter, section) are already included in the price. For example, the same linoleum model can have different widths (from 1.5 m to 5 m), respectively, each product will have its own price for 1 linear meter. m.

The cost of molded material is formed taking into account its overall dimensions

Calculation examples

Suppose that the room has a size of 4x5 m, that is, its area is 20 m². It is from this figure that it is necessary to build on when making the calculation. To find out the length, you need known area divide by width. That is, if the choice fell on a roll of linoleum 2.5 m wide, then you will need to purchase 8 linear meters. m of such material: 20 ÷ 2.5 = 8.

Example #2. How much corrugated board is needed to fence the site.

Initially, you need to decide on the width of the corrugated sheet, which, together with the above-ground part of the foundation, will make up the height of the fence. Then everything is extremely simple - the perimeter of the site is measured and the corresponding molding is purchased.

Example #3. Determine the size of the countertop for the kitchen.

standard depth kitchen worktop is 0.6 m, and its length depends solely on the size of the kitchen and the number of pieces of furniture. If you need to close two lockers (0.6 m wide), a built-in stove (0.5 m) and a double sink (0.8 m), you will need 2.5 linear meters. m countertops.

If the depth of the countertop is usually standard, then its thickness, depending on the material used, varies from 18 to 60 mm

Is it possible to calculate the cost of a kitchen by the number of linear meters

Sellers of furniture, in particular kitchen sets, often use the term "linear meter" when calculating the price of an order. However, in this case, this value is very conditional, since for an approximate calculation of the cost of the product, a standard package is taken, which includes:

  • countertop made of chipboard;
  • minimal "stuffing" of cabinets;
  • ordinary hinged doors;
  • medium quality hardware.

If the customer wants to use a more expensive countertop, for example, made of stone, add a large cabinet with a roll-out mesh, install a door closer on each door, then the price can increase several times. Therefore, such a concept as a running meter of a kitchen can only be used for initial, very approximate calculations.

The price calculated taking into account the molding and the actual cost of the kitchen may differ significantly

Calculation of apartment renovation: how builders determine their salary

Often, a dispute between customers and builders arises against the backdrop of a misunderstanding related to the final price for repairs. The vast majority of repair teams make an estimate for the implementation various kinds finishes based not on square meters, but on running meters. As a result, the amount of treated surface indicated in the estimate is an order of magnitude greater than the actual area of ​​the room.

Why is it so? The fact is that builders can assign 1 linear meter. m object, the length of which is significantly less than 1 m. For example, when finishing a multi-level ceiling, each end is considered as 1 linear. m, even if its actual area is insignificant.

Some customers are sure that it is absolutely wrong to count running meters in this way, recommending builders to calculate according to the square of the finish. However, it should be understood here that it is much easier to process a flat surface without any transitions than the same multi-level ceiling, where each transition, even if it is 10 cm, requires a separate finish, and therefore a separate payment.

If the plane to be finished is less than 1 m, it is still considered as 1 lin. m

As already noted, a linear meter is a conditional value, which becomes even more conditional if it is not about materials, but about the work performed. Therefore, do not be surprised by the provided repair estimate and consider the builders as scammers. In the case of contacting professionals, you can be sure that the cost of each work has a real justification.

Everything is measurable. It is a fact. But the values ​​used are different. Most of the products that are rolled up, which relate to fittings and kitchen products, are today measured in linear meters. To be more precise, a running meter is how many meters in length. The width is not taken into account.

In one store, these stripes are in this form. But in the other there is just one wide strip of 3 meters long 10 meters. In essence, this is what we need. Since the cost is indicated in linear meters, in the first store we will pay three times more than in the second. The savings are huge!

Remember, 1 linear meter is 1 meter of the product in length. And then it doesn't matter what the width is. The price will not change.

Carefully!

Very often, only the number of linear meters and the price are indicated in the product information card. This means that we do not know anything about the width of the product. If you buy everything in a store or market, you can bring your own tape measure.

On the Internet, such data is often hidden. You can not order a product without making sure of its parameters. It is worth calling the store and find out its width.

When you find two identical items with different prices, do not rush to order the cheapest one. It is possible that the width of that product will not suit you.

Marking the fabric is a matter, although not simple, but accurate. With kitchens, which are also measured in linear meters, everything is much more complicated. Usually, we take into account 1 meter of standard headset. That is, simple cabinets and tables are always used for miscalculations. All additional decorative elements are negotiated separately.

If you buy a ready-made kitchen, then information about running meters is not particularly important. You already see the finished price tag and decide whether the price is right or not. But with individual orders, you need to carefully consider everything.

It is important to emphasize that you can never know the exact amount in advance. We can only judge the minimum cost of 1 linear meter of your future kitchen.

There are two popular situations in which the answers are completely different:

1. Accurate calculation. You order an ordinary kitchen, where all drawers, cabinets and tables have standard sizes. You don't change anything. The final price may differ slightly from the planned one.

2. Completely inaccurate calculation. The kitchen is completely original. All cabinets and drawers are designed for your convenience and size of dishes and furniture. The headset fits exactly into the design of the room. The final price may be several times higher.

Why is the total going up?

It is difficult to translate linear meters. And for the sake of a new idea, you have to put up with the pricing policy. To cut costs, it is worth connecting different components. That is, it is necessary to use as many standard elements as possible, diluting them with custom ones. So you get a kitchen that fits well into the interior, and save your budget.

Don't forget that different materials and designer features add value. One linear meter of a locker can become more expensive if you decide to install not 4, but 5 drawers in it. Each detail requires additional expenses. Carving or decorative stickers are far from cheap.

Alternative to running meter

Many shops calculate the price based on ready-made kitchens. You choose the model you like, see its price, and then change it a little, if necessary. In such cases, it is easier to evaluate a future purchase.

As a result, we see that a linear meter is a value by which many goods are measured, from fabric to kitchen. It defines the length without specifying the width. In order not to make a mistake in the purchase, you need to clarify all the points. If the Internet refuses to tell you the width, then it's not worth the risk. After all, you can just lose your money.

The concept of "linear meter" is often found in articles on repair and interiors, and sometimes it confuses a person. In this article we will talk about what a running meter means, how it differs from a square meter and how to determine it.

The concept of "linear meter" is used to determine the length of products and materials in the event that the width is standard or does not matter. It is equal to the usual meter, or 100 cm, and is abbreviated as "lin. m.


In the production of furniture in linear meters measure:

  • roll materials - various fabrics, finishing braid, piping;


  • built-in cabinet furniture - kitchens, wardrobes.

When repairing and building in running meters, they also measure:

  • rolled metal - corner, channel, pipes and other profile products;

  • rolled building materials - linoleum, substrate, geotextiles;

  • water, sewer and ventilation pipes;

  • wood - a bar, a board;

  • fencing, fences;

  • cable products.

Note! The remaining parameters of materials and products measured in linear meters - diameter, width, thickness, profile shape - are standard. They are selected in accordance with the project and are not measured when buying.


What is the difference between a running meter and a square meter

Square meters measure the area of ​​a surface or material. To calculate the area of ​​​​a material, you need to multiply its length, expressed in meters, by the width, also in meters.


Recalculation from linear meters to square meters may be required if the project measurements are carried out in linear meters, and the price of the material is indicated per square meter.

Calculation example

According to the project, it is necessary to buy 5.5 linear meters of material 240 cm wide, the price of the material is expressed in square meters and amounts to 300 rubles. per m 2. It is necessary to calculate the total cost of the material.

  1. The first step is to convert centimeters to meters. To do this, all values ​​​​in centimeters must be divided by 100. The width of the material will be 240 / 100 = 2.4 m.
  2. The length and width of the material in meters must be multiplied. The area of ​​the material will be 5.5 x 2.4 = 13.2 square meters but.
  3. The resulting area of ​​​​the material must be multiplied by the price of the material: 13.2 x 300 = 3960 rubles.

In square meters, not only the material can be measured, but also the cost of any finishing works– cleaning, painting, upholstery of furniture. In this case, measure the width and length of each of the surfaces to be trimmed, multiply them, and add the results obtained.

Linear meter of fabric and other roll materials

To measure a running meter, you can use any measuring tool - a tape measure, a folding or wooden meter, a centimeter tape. On some materials, for example, decorative films, markings are applied from the inside, according to which you can measure the desired length without a tape measure.


The markings on the tool or materials, as well as the dimensions on the drawings, may be indicated in other units of measurement, they must be converted to meters according to the table.

Table. Converting various units of measurement to linear meters.

Having picked up the material of the desired width and configuration, proceed to the measurements. Roll materials laid out on flat surface and measure the required number of running meters, and then cut off.


Linear meter of piece products

Piece products - various strips, slats, skirting boards - usually have a standard length. To purchase the required number of piece products, you must:

  • find out the standard length of the product;
  • the total number of linear meters for the project divided by the standard length of the product;
  • Round the result up to an integer.

Calculation example

According to the kitchen project, a wall plinth is required in the amount of 7 linear meters. The standard length of the plinth is 2 m. It is necessary to determine the required number of bars.


  1. The total number of linear meters is divided by the standard length of the bar: 7/2 = 3.5 pcs.
  2. The result is rounded up and get the required amount - 4 pcs.

Note! Sometimes the length of piece products is non-standard, for example, when buying wooden bars, slats. In this case, each selected unit of the product is measured and the values ​​expressed in meters are summarized.

Manufacturers kitchen furniture often indicate its base cost not per set, but per linear meter. Thanks to this conventional unit when drawing up an individual project, you can quickly calculate the approximate cost of the entire kitchen by multiplying its estimated length by the price for 1 linear meter. m.


Video - Linear meter of the kitchen

The basic package of the kitchen usually includes a set of cabinets and cabinets. standard height with the simplest finish, as well as the minimum necessary fittings. When drawing up an individual project, the cost per linear meter of a kitchen may change.


The basic package does not include:

  • built-in appliances;
  • sink and mixer;
  • hood;
  • cornice, lighting panel;
  • wall panels, apron;
  • wall plinth.

Postforming countertops can also be calculated separately, not by the number of linear meters of the kitchen, but by the number of plates used for its manufacture, this nuance also needs to be clarified with the manufacturer.


The final cost of the kitchen is also affected by:

  • Non-standard width and height of cabinets and cabinets;
  • additional fittings, components;
  • the choice of other fittings, facade decoration, countertop material;
  • calling specialists to install the kitchen and other additional services.

Video - What affects the cost of the kitchen

Note! Modules with hinged doors on cabinets and cabinets cost 1.5-2 times cheaper than similar cabinets with drawers and facades with lifts.

Technology for calculating the kitchen by linear meters

For the calculation, you need a plan of the room indicating the dimensions, as well as the price of 1 linear meter. m. kitchen of the selected model.

Step 1. Choose a way to arrange furniture depending on the size and layout of the room, as well as personal preferences.


Kitchen furniture layout plan Total length of kitchen furniture Calculation of the total length of the kitchen

Step 4 Multiply the specified length of the kitchen by the base price per linear meter of the selected model. Keep in mind: if the length of the lower and upper parts of the kitchen is different, then it is better to calculate their cost separately. At the same time, the "bottom" of the kitchen is taken as 60-65% of its total cost.


Note! Custom-width modules tend to be more expensive, as they require reconfiguration of equipment to produce.