Accurately determining the quantity of wallpaper needed for a project is essential to minimize waste and ensure a cohesive aesthetic. Several online resources and tools are available to assist in this calculation, factoring in wall dimensions, pattern repeats, and other variables influencing material requirements. These resources are particularly useful when selecting products from specific retailers or brands offering unique wallpaper designs and dimensions.
Precise material estimation yields numerous benefits, including cost savings by avoiding over-purchasing and time efficiency by preventing the need for additional orders. Historically, wallpaper quantity estimations relied on manual calculations, leading to potential errors and increased waste. The advent of online tools streamlined this process, providing greater accuracy and convenience for both professional decorators and DIY enthusiasts.
The following sections will delve into key considerations for wallpaper calculation, exploring factors such as room measurement techniques, pattern matching complexities, and the specific features offered by various estimation resources. This detailed exploration will equip individuals with the knowledge required to confidently approach wallpaper projects, ensuring optimal material usage and a seamless installation experience.
1. Room Dimensions
Room dimensions constitute the foundational input for any wallpaper estimation process. The accuracy of these measurements directly impacts the reliability of the final calculation, including those provided by tools affiliated with specific brands like Serena and Lily. Wall height, wall width, and the total surface area to be covered are primary determinants of how much wallpaper is required. Inaccurate room dimension inputs lead to either underestimation, resulting in insufficient wallpaper to complete the project, or overestimation, causing unnecessary material waste and increased project costs. For example, if a wall’s height is incorrectly measured as 8 feet instead of 9 feet, the calculation will be significantly off, potentially leaving an entire vertical strip of the wall uncovered.
Consider a rectangular room with four walls. Each wall’s width and height must be measured precisely. Any variations in these measurements across the room are noted and accounted for. Obstructions, such as windows and doors, also affect the calculation. While their area is subtracted from the total surface area, it’s vital to recognize that wallpapering around these features often introduces additional waste due to pattern matching and cutting. Therefore, the degree of complexity in the room’s architecture contributes significantly to the overall wallpaper requirement. Specific calculators often provide fields to input each wall’s measurements separately, offering a more refined estimate than simple surface area calculations.
In summary, precise room dimension measurements are not merely a preliminary step; they are integral to the success and cost-effectiveness of any wallpapering endeavor. Erroneous measurements undermine the utility of even the most sophisticated estimation tool. Therefore, careful attention to detail during the measurement phase is paramount. This foundational step directly correlates with minimizing waste, controlling project expenses, and achieving a professional-quality result. Overlooking the importance of precise room dimension input inevitably leads to complications and potential project failures.
2. Pattern Repeat
The concept of pattern repeat is intrinsically linked to the accuracy and effectiveness of any wallpaper quantity estimation tool, including a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator”. Understanding pattern repeat is crucial for minimizing waste and achieving a visually consistent wallpaper installation.
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Vertical Pattern Repeat and Material Consumption
Vertical pattern repeat dictates the distance between identical points in a repeating design along the length of the wallpaper roll. A larger vertical repeat necessitates more material per strip to ensure proper alignment with adjacent strips. For example, a wallpaper with a 24-inch vertical repeat will generate more waste than one with a 12-inch repeat when covering walls of varying heights. The calculator accounts for this by adjusting the estimated number of rolls required, factoring in the unusable portions of each roll resulting from pattern matching.
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Match Type and Installation Complexity
Different match types (straight match, drop match, random match) influence the complexity of installation and the amount of waste generated. A straight match, where the pattern aligns horizontally, is relatively straightforward. A drop match, where the pattern shifts vertically between strips, often results in greater waste. A random match allows for arbitrary alignment, minimizing waste. The calculator requires users to specify the match type to accurately estimate material needs. Serena and Lily’s designs may feature a variety of match types, each impacting the calculation differently.
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Calculator Algorithms and Pattern Repeat Integration
The algorithms within a wallpaper calculator use the pattern repeat measurement, in conjunction with wall height, to determine the number of usable repeats per roll. These algorithms must account for partial repeats at the top and bottom of each strip, factoring in the need to trim excess material. The calculator effectively simulates the wallpapering process, optimizing for material usage while ensuring visual consistency across the installed surface. Failure to accurately input the pattern repeat into the calculator will result in either insufficient or excessive wallpaper ordering.
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Waste Reduction Strategies Based on Pattern Repeat
Understanding the relationship between pattern repeat and material consumption allows for the implementation of waste reduction strategies. For instance, careful planning of strip placement, considering the room’s layout and wall heights, can minimize the amount of unusable material. In some cases, altering the starting point of the wallpaper installation can optimize pattern alignment and reduce overall waste. The calculator provides insights into these possibilities, enabling users to make informed decisions regarding material utilization.
The interplay between pattern repeat, match type, and room dimensions underscores the importance of utilizing a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” accurately. Precise input of these parameters allows the tool to provide a reliable estimate of wallpaper needs, minimizing unnecessary expense and ensuring a seamless, visually appealing installation. The calculator bridges the gap between intricate design elements and practical material requirements, facilitating efficient and cost-effective wallpapering projects.
3. Roll Width
Roll width is a fundamental parameter directly influencing the amount of wallpaper required for any given project and, consequently, plays a significant role in the computations performed by a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator.” Variations in roll width directly impact the number of vertical strips needed to cover a wall of a specific width, thus affecting the overall material estimation.
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Impact on Coverage Area
Roll width determines the area covered by a single strip of wallpaper. A wider roll reduces the number of strips needed to cover a wall, potentially decreasing the total material required. Conversely, a narrower roll necessitates more strips, increasing the potential for waste due to pattern matching and trimming. For example, if a wall is 10 feet wide, a roll width of 2 feet would require five strips, while a roll width of 2.5 feet would only require four. This difference is factored into the calculations performed by the wallpaper estimator.
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Influence on Seam Visibility
Roll width indirectly affects the visibility of seams in the finished wallpaper installation. Wider rolls result in fewer seams across the wall surface, which can lead to a more visually cohesive and seamless appearance. Narrower rolls increase the number of seams, potentially making them more noticeable. The “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” does not directly address seam visibility, but the user must consider this factor when interpreting the estimated material requirements, as wider rolls may be preferable for aesthetic reasons, even if they are slightly more expensive.
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Considerations for Installation Complexity
Wider rolls can present challenges during installation, particularly in confined spaces or when working around architectural features. The increased weight and bulkiness of wider rolls may require more specialized tools and techniques to ensure proper alignment and adhesion. Conversely, narrower rolls are easier to handle and manipulate, simplifying the installation process. However, the “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” primarily focuses on material quantity and does not account for variations in installation complexity due to roll width.
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Interaction with Pattern Repeat and Waste
Roll width interacts with pattern repeat to influence overall material waste. When the roll width is not a clean multiple of the pattern repeat, it can lead to increased waste during pattern matching. The “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” accounts for both roll width and pattern repeat when estimating material needs. Precise input of both parameters is essential to minimize waste and ensure adequate material for a successful installation.
In conclusion, roll width is a critical variable in wallpaper estimation, intricately linked to coverage area, seam visibility, installation complexity, and material waste. A “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” relies on accurate roll width input to provide reliable estimates. Users must carefully consider the interplay between roll width and other factors to optimize material usage and achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.
4. Wall Obstructions
The presence of wall obstructions significantly complicates wallpaper calculations. A precise estimation of wallpaper quantities, especially when utilizing brand-specific tools, such as a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator,” must account for these features to minimize waste and ensure adequate material coverage.
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Window and Door Dimensions
Windows and doors necessitate precise measurement to deduct their area from the total wall surface. Failing to accurately account for these dimensions can result in overestimating the necessary wallpaper, leading to unnecessary expenditure. For example, if a large windows dimensions are underestimated by even a few inches, the calculator will erroneously assume more wall surface requires coverage, resulting in excess wallpaper ordered.
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Fixed Fixtures and Architectural Elements
Features such as fireplaces, built-in shelving, and molding introduce further complexity. These elements not only reduce the surface area requiring wallpaper but also necessitate intricate cuts around their perimeters. This cutting process invariably increases waste, particularly when dealing with wallpapers featuring prominent patterns. The “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” might offer general guidelines but will not account for the unique shapes of such obstructions, requiring manual adjustments to the final estimate.
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Irregular Wall Shapes and Alcoves
Walls with non-standard shapes, including alcoves or angled sections, demand careful segmentation and measurement. The surface area of each distinct section must be calculated separately and then summed to determine the total wallpaper requirement. Such irregularities can significantly impact the accuracy of a standard “serena and lily wallpaper calculator,” as these tools typically assume rectangular wall surfaces. Therefore, users must adapt the calculator’s inputs to accommodate these complexities.
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Impact on Pattern Matching
Wall obstructions can disrupt the continuity of wallpaper patterns, increasing the challenge of seamless matching. The need to align patterns around windows, doors, or other features often results in substantial waste. A “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” may not fully account for the additional material required to maintain pattern integrity around these obstructions. Therefore, an experienced installer will typically factor in a higher wastage allowance to compensate for these challenges.
The effective integration of wall obstruction considerations into the wallpaper estimation process is crucial for achieving both cost-efficiency and a visually appealing outcome. While a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” provides a valuable starting point, manual adjustments and a thorough understanding of installation complexities are essential for accurate material procurement and a successful project execution.
5. Waste Minimization
Effective waste minimization is a crucial objective in any wallpapering project, directly influencing project cost and environmental impact. A “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” serves as a primary tool to achieve this goal by providing an estimate of the required wallpaper quantity, thereby reducing the likelihood of over-purchasing. The calculator’s functionality incorporates key variables such as room dimensions, pattern repeat, and roll width, allowing for a more accurate material assessment compared to manual estimations. For example, a homeowner undertaking a bedroom wallpapering project can input specific room measurements into the calculator, and the tool will determine the number of rolls needed, minimizing surplus material. Without such a tool, a tendency to overestimate could lead to significant financial loss and increased disposal of unused wallpaper.
The precise estimations facilitated by the wallpaper calculator extend beyond simply avoiding excess material purchase. By accurately accounting for pattern repeats, the tool assists in optimizing wallpaper strip layout, further reducing waste generated during the installation process. A recurring challenge in wallpaper installation involves matching intricate patterns, which often results in considerable offcuts. The calculator, by integrating pattern repeat data, guides users in strategically positioning the wallpaper to minimize unusable sections. Moreover, when integrated with careful planning and precise cutting techniques, the estimations produced by the calculator enable users to repurpose smaller wallpaper pieces for accent walls or craft projects, thereby further minimizing waste sent to landfills.
In summary, the “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” is instrumental in waste minimization within wallpapering projects. Its ability to incorporate critical parameters, such as room dimensions and pattern repeats, enables accurate material estimation, reducing both financial losses and environmental impact. While the calculator provides a strong foundation for waste reduction, its effectiveness is amplified when paired with careful planning, strategic installation practices, and creative repurposing of leftover materials. The combination of these elements contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective approach to wallpapering.
6. Seam Matching
Seam matching is a critical aspect of wallpaper installation, directly influencing the final aesthetic and perceived quality of the finished surface. A “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” implicitly incorporates seam matching considerations within its algorithms, although the level of user input and control over this factor can vary. The pattern repeat, a key variable within the calculator, dictates the alignment required between adjacent wallpaper strips to achieve a seamless or visually continuous effect. A longer pattern repeat necessitates greater precision in seam matching, potentially increasing material waste if not accounted for during the estimation phase. Real-world scenarios, such as wallpapering a wall with multiple windows or doors, amplify the challenges associated with seam matching, as the installer must carefully cut and align the wallpaper around these obstructions while maintaining pattern continuity. Inadequate attention to seam matching results in visible discontinuities, detracting from the intended design and reducing the overall impact of the chosen wallpaper.
The practical application of seam matching principles extends beyond mere pattern alignment. Professional installers frequently employ techniques such as double-cutting at seams to create perfectly flush joints, minimizing visibility and preventing the edges of the wallpaper from peeling or lifting. The accuracy of a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” in estimating the required material quantity is directly related to the installer’s ability to effectively execute these seam matching techniques. A skilled installer can optimize material usage, minimizing waste while simultaneously achieving a high level of seam integration. Conversely, an inexperienced installer may require significantly more wallpaper to achieve a satisfactory result, negating the benefits of a precise calculator output.
In summary, while a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” provides a quantitative assessment of wallpaper requirements, the qualitative aspect of seam matching remains paramount. The calculator’s effectiveness is contingent upon accurate input of pattern repeat data and the installer’s proficiency in executing seam matching techniques. Challenges such as complex room geometries and intricate pattern designs necessitate a balance between calculated estimations and practical expertise to ensure a seamless and visually cohesive wallpaper installation. The successful integration of both computational and manual skills is essential for maximizing the value of a wallpaper calculator and achieving a superior aesthetic outcome.
7. Accuracy Assurance
Accuracy assurance is paramount when utilizing a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator,” as deviations from precise measurements and input parameters directly impact the quantity of wallpaper estimated. Erroneous data, such as incorrect room dimensions or inaccurate pattern repeat measurements, propagate through the calculation, leading to either underestimation or overestimation of material needs. Underestimation results in insufficient wallpaper to complete the project, necessitating costly and time-consuming reorders. Overestimation leads to unnecessary financial expenditure and potential material waste. A real-world example involves a homeowner who miscalculated the wall height by several inches when using an online calculator. This seemingly minor error resulted in a significant shortfall of wallpaper, delaying the project and incurring additional shipping expenses. Accuracy assurance, therefore, functions as a critical control point, preventing errors and ensuring efficient resource allocation.
The practical significance of accuracy assurance extends beyond simple arithmetic. The algorithms within a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” rely on the assumption that input data accurately reflects the physical reality of the space being wallpapered. However, variations in wall straightness, architectural anomalies, and unforeseen installation challenges can introduce discrepancies between the calculated estimate and the actual material requirements. To mitigate these risks, employing multiple measurement techniques, verifying input data, and consulting with experienced wallpaper installers are essential steps. For instance, before finalizing a wallpaper order, a professional installer might visually inspect the room, assess potential challenges, and adjust the calculator’s output accordingly. This layered approach to accuracy assurance enhances the reliability of the calculator’s estimate and minimizes the potential for costly errors.
In summary, accuracy assurance constitutes an indispensable component of the “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” ecosystem. While the calculator provides a valuable tool for estimating wallpaper needs, its effectiveness hinges on the precision and reliability of the input data. Addressing challenges related to measurement errors, architectural complexities, and unforeseen installation factors requires a multi-faceted approach to accuracy assurance, incorporating rigorous data verification, expert consultation, and adaptive adjustments. The practical significance of this understanding lies in optimizing material utilization, minimizing financial risks, and ensuring a successful wallpaper installation outcome.
8. Cost Efficiency
The principle of cost efficiency is intrinsically linked to the utilization of a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator”. The tool’s primary function is to provide an accurate estimate of required wallpaper quantities, directly impacting project expenses by minimizing both overspending on excess material and the costs associated with reordering due to underestimation. A strategic approach to wallpaper selection and installation, facilitated by this calculator, directly contributes to overall budgetary control.
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Material Optimization and Waste Reduction
Accurate material estimation, a core functionality of the “serena and lily wallpaper calculator,” directly reduces material waste. Over-purchasing wallpaper due to imprecise estimations leads to financial losses and increased disposal costs. The calculator incorporates variables such as room dimensions, pattern repeat, and roll width to optimize material usage, ensuring that only the necessary amount of wallpaper is procured. For example, a homeowner with a complex room layout might traditionally overestimate wallpaper needs; however, the calculator provides a precise estimate, potentially saving hundreds of dollars in material costs.
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Labor Cost Control
Efficient project planning, enabled by the calculator, indirectly contributes to labor cost control. Accurate material estimation minimizes delays caused by insufficient wallpaper, reducing the number of hours required for installation. Furthermore, waste reduction streamlines the installation process, as installers spend less time cutting and fitting excess material. For instance, a project requiring multiple re-cuts due to inaccurate initial estimates might incur significant additional labor costs. The calculator mitigates this risk by providing a more precise material plan.
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Avoiding Reordering Expenses
Underestimating wallpaper quantities necessitates reordering, incurring additional expenses such as shipping fees and potential project delays. These costs can be substantial, particularly for specialized or custom-printed wallpaper designs. The “serena and lily wallpaper calculator” minimizes the likelihood of reordering by providing a more reliable initial estimate. This reduces the risk of unforeseen budgetary increases and maintains project momentum.
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Long-Term Value and Aesthetic Impact
Cost efficiency extends beyond immediate expenses to encompass long-term value. A well-planned wallpaper installation, facilitated by the calculator, enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space, potentially increasing property value. By minimizing waste and ensuring a professional finish, the calculator contributes to a lasting investment that provides both functional and aesthetic benefits. A properly executed wallpaper project using a calculated approach avoids the long-term costs associated with poorly matched seams, damaged rolls, and other negative externalities of wallpaper installation.
These facets collectively highlight the direct and indirect cost efficiencies realized through the utilization of a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator.” Accurate material estimation, reduced waste, minimized reordering expenses, and enhanced long-term value contribute to a more fiscally responsible and aesthetically pleasing wallpaper project. The tools functionalities translate into tangible financial benefits, reinforcing its value as a resource for homeowners and professional decorators alike.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wallpaper Quantity Estimation
The following questions address common concerns and misconceptions regarding the use of tools designed to estimate wallpaper requirements, focusing specifically on features and considerations relevant to planning a wallpapering project.
Question 1: How does a wallpaper calculator, such as one associated with Serena & Lily, determine the required number of wallpaper rolls?
A wallpaper calculator employs an algorithm that processes input data including wall dimensions (height and width), room characteristics (number of walls, presence of obstructions), and wallpaper specifications (roll width, pattern repeat). The algorithm calculates the total surface area to be covered, adjusts for waste due to pattern matching, and divides the result by the area covered by a single roll to determine the estimated number of rolls required.
Question 2: What impact does pattern repeat have on the estimated wallpaper quantity?
Pattern repeat significantly affects wallpaper usage. A longer pattern repeat necessitates more wallpaper to ensure consistent alignment between adjacent strips, leading to increased waste. Calculators adjust the estimated quantity based on the pattern repeat to compensate for this additional material requirement. Failure to accurately input the pattern repeat results in an underestimation of wallpaper needed.
Question 3: Are wallpaper calculators accurate for rooms with irregular shapes or numerous obstructions?
While wallpaper calculators provide a useful starting point, their accuracy diminishes in rooms with complex geometries or extensive obstructions (windows, doors, built-ins). These calculators typically assume rectangular walls and require manual adjustments to account for irregular shapes. Experienced installers often visually assess such rooms and adjust the calculated estimate based on their professional judgment.
Question 4: What steps can be taken to minimize waste when using a wallpaper calculator?
To minimize waste, ensure accurate measurements of wall dimensions and pattern repeat. Strategically plan wallpaper strip placement to optimize pattern matching and reduce offcuts. Consider using leftover wallpaper pieces for smaller projects or accent walls. Additionally, consult with a professional installer to identify potential waste-reduction strategies specific to the room’s layout.
Question 5: How does roll width affect the estimated wallpaper quantity?
Roll width inversely affects the number of strips needed to cover a wall. Wider rolls require fewer strips, potentially reducing total material requirements. However, wider rolls can also present challenges during installation, particularly in confined spaces. Calculators account for roll width in their estimations, but the user must also consider the practical implications of roll width on ease of installation.
Question 6: Can a wallpaper calculator account for variations in dye lots between different wallpaper rolls?
Wallpaper calculators do not directly account for dye lot variations. Dye lot differences, subtle color variations between production batches, can be visually noticeable. It is crucial to order sufficient wallpaper from the same dye lot to complete the project. Ordering slightly more wallpaper than estimated by the calculator provides a buffer against potential dye lot issues.
Accurate measurement and consideration of variables beyond the calculated output improve the likelihood of a successful wallpaper project, minimizing material waste and ensuring a professional finish.
The following section provides additional tips on how to ensure a successful wallpaper installation.
Essential Tips for Accurate Wallpaper Estimation
Achieving a successful wallpaper installation hinges significantly on accurate material estimation. Integrating insights gleaned from a wallpaper calculator is paramount to minimizing waste and ensuring a visually cohesive outcome.
Tip 1: Prioritize Precise Wall Measurements.
Inaccurate wall dimensions undermine the utility of any estimation tool. Employ a laser distance measure for enhanced accuracy, verifying measurements multiple times to mitigate human error. Document all measurements meticulously.
Tip 2: Carefully Account for Obstructions.
Windows, doors, and built-in fixtures must be precisely measured to deduct their area from the total wall surface. Factor in the additional material required for intricate cuts around these obstructions, particularly when working with patterned wallpaper.
Tip 3: Accurately Determine Pattern Repeat.
The pattern repeat dimension dictates the amount of material required for seamless alignment between strips. Consult the wallpaper manufacturer’s specifications to obtain the precise pattern repeat measurement, verifying this information independently.
Tip 4: Consider Wall Straightness.
Older buildings often exhibit uneven wall surfaces. Account for these irregularities by measuring wall heights at multiple points. A plumb line can assist in identifying deviations from vertical, informing adjustments to the calculated estimate.
Tip 5: Account for Seam Allowances.
Professional installers typically employ a double-cutting technique at seams to create perfectly flush joints. Factor in a small allowance for this process when calculating the total wallpaper quantity, minimizing the risk of material shortages.
Tip 6: Integrate Visual Inspection.
Prior to finalizing the order, conduct a comprehensive visual inspection of the room. Identify any potential challenges or complexities not accounted for by the calculator, adjusting the estimate as necessary. This crucial step allows for an early recognition and mitigation of potential issues.
Effective integration of these guidelines, along with a keen understanding of the wallpaper installation process, ensures optimal material utilization and a professional-quality result.
The following section provides concluding remarks summarizing the importance of proper wallpaper calculations.
Conclusion
The preceding analysis clarifies the role and utility of tools designed to estimate wallpaper requirements, specifically referencing the functionalities associated with a “serena and lily wallpaper calculator”. Accurate material estimation is a critical determinant of project cost, waste reduction, and aesthetic outcome. The effectiveness of such tools hinges on precise input data, a comprehensive understanding of installation complexities, and adherence to industry best practices. Deviations from these principles compromise the accuracy of the calculated estimates and can lead to significant financial and logistical complications.
Prudent planning and diligent execution remain essential for successful wallpaper projects. While calculators offer valuable assistance, they do not substitute for professional expertise and meticulous attention to detail. Ongoing advancements in estimation technologies may further streamline the process; however, the fundamental principles of accurate measurement, waste minimization, and skilled installation will continue to underpin successful outcomes in interior design. The informed application of these principles ensures that wallpaper projects are both aesthetically pleasing and economically sound.
