How is the square footage of a home plan calculated?
Square footage calculations are taken from outside perimeter of the exterior frame wall and includes only living (heated) spaces. Two story, vaulted areas, and staircases are only included once in the calculations of the first floor. Balconies and open walkways are included with the second floor calculations. The combine total gives you the total square footage. Decks, porches, garages, basements, and attics are not included in the total heated square footage. Basements are usually the same square footage of the first floor if it follows the same footprint of the first floor.
