Linear metres measure length
One linear metre is simply one metre of length, regardless of the width or thickness of the material.
Typical uses
Skirting, coving, timber, gutter, battens and trim are commonly estimated as lengths.
Area can sometimes convert to linear metres
If a product has a fixed effective cover width, linear metres can be estimated as area ÷ cover width.
Stock lengths still matter
A 30 m linear requirement does not automatically mean five 6 m pieces will cut efficiently. Check the actual run lengths and joints.
Use the numbers in a calculator
Accuracy note
Where a figure depends on a product, supplier, installation method or project specification, use the current information for the exact material being purchased. The reference pages explain the maths and estimating logic; they are not a substitute for current technical data.