If you are looking at your CubiCasa floor plan report in the US or Canada, you might notice two different square footage calculations: Total Area (formerly called Gross Internal Area or GIA) and GLA (Gross Living Area).
Because these two numbers are calculated using different rules, they might not match. Here is a breakdown of why they differ and how to choose the right one for your needs.
The Quick Breakdown
Feature | Total Area (formerly GIA) | GLA (Gross Living Area) |
What is it? | A practical estimate of all finished, enclosed indoor space, including wall dimensions. | A highly regulated measurement designed specifically for real estate valuations. |
ANSI-Z765 Compliant? | No. While it is designed to be close to GLA, it does not strictly follow ANSI guidelines. | Yes. It adheres to ANSI standards. |
How are walls handled? | Includes external wall dimensions. | Includes external wall dimensions. |
Best Used For | Marketing, MLS listings, and matching local public records. | Appraisals, formal valuations, and mortgage lending requirements. |
Why Your Numbers Might Differ
The most common reason for a discrepancy between your Total Area and your GLA comes down to ANSI standards.
Because our GLA add-on strictly follows ANSI-Z765 standards, certain spaces are excluded from the GLA calculation even if they are finished and enclosed.
For example:
A room that is non-contiguous will be excluded from the GLA total, but included in the Total Area.
Other examples of spaces excluded from GLA but included in Total Area are areas with sloped ceilings, or non-heated but finished and enclosed areas.
Which one should I use?
Rule of thumb: If a client mentions the word "ANSI," is working with an "appraiser," or needs "formal total measurements" for a lending institution, always advise them to use the GLA.
While our new Total Area is designed to be as close to GLA as possible—making it perfect for standard MLS listings and matching public records—it is not bound by ANSI standards. For formal, official valuation work, the GLA add-on is always the safest bet.