How to Measure for a Christmas Tree

Eyeballing a tree in a lot or garden center doesn’t always give you the height perspective you need. That’s why it’s a smart idea to know your ceiling height before you go. Here are some other measurements to keep in mind:

• Start by measuring floor to ceiling. The average ceiling height is typically about eight feet. Subtract 6-12 inches for your tree topper. Keep in mind that trees often have branches at the top that can be trimmed to create a better spot for your tree topper.
• Don’t forget your tree stand. Depending on the type you use it can add roughly six to ten inches to the height of your tree. Typically, artificial Christmas trees take the height of the base into consideration, but it never hurts to double check.
• Many families use the same topper year after year, making it easy to remember how much clearance you need between the top of your tree and the ceiling. If you fall in love with a larger tree, using a bow as a tree topper requires less ceiling space and still looks festive.

Leave it to nature to keep things interesting. The width of the tree can vary from bushy to narrow. If you have the space, a wider tree offers more room for lights and ornaments. Here’s how to figure out if you’ve got enough space:

• After moving items to create a spot for your tree, measure its width and depth, leave at least 12-to 18-inches of breathing room between the tree and walls, windows or furniture. This gives enough space for people to pass by the tree without brushing against branches full of ornaments and prevents sap from branches getting transferred to furniture.
• Remember that branches for live trees will need to settle. So the width they appear to be in the tree lot might change when you get the tree home and the branches relax. Budget space for the tree to look fuller in your heated home.
• If you’re buying a tree from a garden center or tree lot, trees are often trimmed to 80 percent of the tree’s height. So the diameter of the base of a ten-foot tree would be about eight feet.
• The shape sets a style tone too. Want a dramatic, full-bodied tree that turns your living room into a forest retreat? Or a slim, modern silhouette that tucks neatly into a corner? Width helps determines the vibe.

There’s more to consider here than just giving it a fresh trim before bringing it home.

• Check your stand. Measure the inside of your tree stand before you buy. Most are adjustable and can support trunks 6–8 inches across, but a larger trunk means a larger tree, so it might need a sturdier base. Once a tree crosses that 9-to-10-foot mark it’s recommended to invest in a heavy-duty tree base for added stability.
• The size of a Christmas tree’s trunk also is an indicator of how much water your tree could need. For every inch of trunk diameter your tree needs roughly a quart of water.

• Furniture space: Give the tree 1–2 feet from couches and chairs so your living room feels cozy, not cramped.
• Fire safety: Keep at least 3 feet of space between your tree and fireplaces, radiators, or heating vents. A hydrated, well-placed tree stays fresher (and safer) longer.
• Traffic flow: Make sure doorways and walkways stay clear—your guests will thank you when they’re carrying gifts and mugs of hot cocoa.
  
• Watering Access: Don’t forget space at the base for easy watering. A well-hydrated tree means longer-lasting needles and a fresh pine scent all season long.