Tile
Calculator
Calculate exactly how many tiles you need for any floor or wall. Enter room dimensions, tile size, grout width, and waste — get tile count, boxes needed, and total cost instantly.
Common Tile Sizes & Types
Reference guide for popular tile formats and their typical uses.
Recommended Waste % by Pattern
Always order extra — tiles from different batches can vary in shade.
| Laying Pattern | Waste % to Add | Reason | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight Grid | 10% | Minimal edge cuts | Rectangular rooms, standard tile |
| Brick / 50% Offset | 10–12% | More cuts at edges | Subway tiles, plank tiles |
| Diagonal 45° | 15% | Many angled corner cuts | Square rooms; classic elegance |
| Herringbone | 15–20% | Complex pattern, many cuts | Hallways, feature walls |
| Versailles Pattern | 20% | Multiple tile sizes, complex layout | Large formal rooms |
| Irregular/Custom | 20–25% | Non-rectangular cuts throughout | Curved surfaces, unique designs |
Always Order from the Same Batch
Tiles from different production batches can vary slightly in color and texture — even the same product code. Order all tiles for a project at once. If unsure between quantities, buy the larger amount; returning unused tiles is easier than finding an exact batch match later.
Floor tiles must be slip-resistant and rated for floor use (PEI rating 3–5). They're generally thicker and harder to withstand foot traffic, furniture, and dropped objects.
Wall tiles can be thinner, lighter, and have a smoother finish. They're not rated for floor use — wall tiles on a floor will crack under load. Always check the tile's intended use before purchasing.
Ceramic: Made from clay, fired at lower temps. Lighter, easier to cut, less expensive. Best for indoor walls and light-traffic floors. Water absorption rate >0.5%.
Porcelain: Denser, harder, nearly waterproof (<0.5% absorption). Better for wet areas, high-traffic floors, outdoor use. More expensive and needs a diamond blade to cut. Porcelain can mimic stone, wood, or concrete convincingly.
How to Calculate How Many Tiles You Need
Calculating the correct number of tiles prevents the frustration of running short mid-project or over-ordering expensive materials. The process involves three key measurements: the area to be tiled, the size of each tile (including grout joints), and the waste allowance for cuts and breakage.
The Basic Tile Calculation Formula
Calculating Wall Tiles
For walls, measure each wall section's width and height. Subtract the area of any openings — doors typically average 21 sq ft (1.95 sq m) and windows average 9–12 sq ft (0.84–1.1 sq m). For full-perimeter bathroom walls, calculate each wall separately. Add all wall areas together, then apply the tile and grout formula above.
Grout Joint Size Guidelines
The recommended grout joint size depends on tile type and size. Mosaic tiles (under 4 inches): 1/16 inch (1.5mm). Standard floor tiles (12–18 inches): 1/8 inch (3mm). Large format tiles (18 inches and above): 3/16 to 1/4 inch (5–6mm). Rectified tiles (precisely cut edges) can use as little as 1/16 inch. Always follow the tile manufacturer's recommendation.
Tile Installation Tips & Best Practices
Understanding the installation process helps you calculate materials more accurately and avoid costly mistakes.
Start From the Center
Professional tile installers start from the center of the room and work outward, ensuring the pattern is symmetrical and full tiles are visible in the most prominent areas. Border cuts at the edges should be equal on opposite walls. Measure and snap chalk lines across the room's center before laying the first tile.
Tile Layout Patterns and Waste
The laying pattern significantly affects material usage. A straight grid pattern is the most economical — most tiles go down whole, with only border cuts. A 45° diagonal pattern requires 15% more material because every border tile needs angled cuts. Herringbone and Versailles patterns are beautiful but require the most cuts and skill, adding 15–20% material cost.
Subfloor Preparation
Tiles require a flat, stable, moisture-resistant substrate. For floors, cement backer board is installed over the subfloor before tiling. For walls, cement board or waterproofing membrane is used in wet areas. Unevenness in the substrate leads to lippage (tiles sitting at different heights) and can cause tiles to crack. The substrate must be within 1/8 inch of flat over 10 feet.
Acclimating Tiles
Unbox tiles and let them acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 24 hours before installation. This is especially important for stone and large-format porcelain tiles, which can expand or contract significantly with temperature changes. Mix tiles from several boxes to blend any subtle color or texture variations across the installation.