Quoting by Measurements: Square Meters and Linear Meters

Square meters or linear meters?

• Square meters (m²): when area is what matters. For example windows, glass, flooring, painting, wall tiling and blinds.
• Linear meters: when only length matters. For example railings, profiles, pipes, trims and edging.
• Per unit or a fixed price: for items that don't depend on size, such as a handle, a motor or a day of work.

How to calculate area

Area = width × height, in meters. Divide centimeter measurements by 100. For example, a 120 × 150 cm window is 1.2 × 1.5 = 1.8 m².

When one item has several sizes, calculate each one and add them up. For example, three windows: 120 × 150 (1.8 m²), 100 × 120 (1.2 m²) and 80 × 100 (0.8 m²) - 3.8 m² in total. At $95 per m² (an example only), the total is $361.

And linear meters?

Here you add up lengths only. For example, a 6.4 m railing at $80 per linear meter (an example only) comes to $512.

Tips that prevent mistakes

• Write the measurements in the quote, not just the total, so the client sees how you reached the price.
• Decide in advance how you round, and whether a small item has a minimum charge.
• If there is material waste, add it as a separate line or build it into the price per m² - and be consistent.
• Supplier sizes in inches or feet? Convert them to meters first.

How TEKANGO helps

In TEKANGO you choose per-square-meter or per-linear-meter pricing for each item, and enter the measurements in centimeters or meters.

You can add several sizes to the same item, and the area and the price are calculated automatically.