Tile Calculator
Calculate tiles needed for your floor or wall project
How to Use the Tile Calculator
- Measure your space: Enter the length and width of the area you want to tile in feet.
- Select tile size: Choose from common tile sizes like 12"x12", 6"x6", or 18"x18".
- Set waste percentage: Add 10-20% extra tiles for cuts, breakage, and future repairs.
- Enter tile price: Input the cost per tile to calculate total material costs.
- Review results: Get the number of tiles needed, grout bags required, and total estimated cost.
Tile Installation Tips & Best Practices
Planning Your Tile Layout
- • Start from the center of the room and work outward
- • Use chalk lines to mark your starting point
- • Plan tile cuts to be equal on opposite sides
- • Consider tile patterns: straight, diagonal, or brick
- • Account for doorways and transitions
Material Considerations
- • Order 15-20% extra tiles for waste and future repairs
- • Check tiles for color and size variations
- • Use appropriate adhesive for your tile type
- • Choose grout color that complements your tiles
- • Consider tile trim and edging pieces
Types of Tiles for Different Applications
Floor Tiles
Ceramic & Porcelain: Durable, water-resistant, available in many styles
Natural Stone: Marble, travertine, slate - elegant but requires sealing
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): Waterproof, comfortable underfoot, easy installation
Wall Tiles
Subway Tiles: Classic 3"x6" rectangular tiles, versatile patterns
Mosaic Tiles: Small tiles on mesh backing, great for accents
Large Format: 12"x24" or larger, modern look with fewer grout lines
Common Tile Sizes & Coverage
| Tile Size | Coverage per Tile | Tiles per Sq Ft | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3" x 6" (Subway) | 0.125 sq ft | 8 tiles | Kitchen backsplashes, bathroom walls |
| 6" x 6" | 0.25 sq ft | 4 tiles | Small bathrooms, accent areas |
| 12" x 12" | 1.0 sq ft | 1 tile | Most common floor tile size |
| 12" x 24" | 2.0 sq ft | 0.5 tiles | Modern floors, large spaces |
| 18" x 18" | 2.25 sq ft | 0.44 tiles | Large rooms, contemporary look |
Related Construction Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
How much waste should I add when calculating tiles?
Add 10-15% for straight layouts and 15-20% for diagonal or complex patterns. This accounts for cuts, breakage, and future repairs.
What size grout lines should I use?
Most tiles use 1/8" to 1/4" grout lines. Larger tiles can use smaller grout lines, while smaller tiles typically need wider grout lines.
How do I calculate tiles for irregular rooms?
Break the room into rectangular sections, calculate each section separately, then add them together. Always round up to whole tiles.
Should I buy extra tiles beyond the waste calculation?
Yes, keep 5-10 extra tiles for future repairs. Tile lots can vary in color and pattern, making exact matches difficult later.