Pipe stock lengths Calculator: measuring notes and method
Measure straight pieces and fittings separately
Record the pipe lengths required between fittings, allowing for the actual connection detail. Do not treat every bend as a length of straight pipe.
Check the cut list
A required unbroken length longer than available stock needs a permitted joint. Identify those runs before pooling short offcuts with the rest of the order.
Formula
Required length = length per run × runs × (1 + waste ÷ 100). Stock count = required length ÷ stock length, rounded up.
Worked examples in metric and imperial units
Illustrative values match Reset example and stay fixed when you edit the calculator. Both columns describe the same calculation; converted inputs are rounded.
Metric worked example
- Required length per run
- 6 m
- Quantity
- 1
- Stock length
- 3 m
- Waste allowance
- 10 %
Stock lengths to buy: 3
Imperial worked example
- Required length per run
- 19.685 ft
- Quantity
- 1
- Stock length
- 9.8425 ft
- Waste allowance
- 10 %
Stock lengths to buy: 3
Follow the calculation
Lengths in this working are in metres.
- Net required length = 6 × 1 = 6 m.
- Stock count = 6 × 1.1 ÷ 3, rounded up. This assumes usable offcuts.
Reviewed 19 October 2026. How calculations are checked · Report a correction