Tile Calculator
Calculate the exact number of tiles, grout, and materials needed for your floor or wall tiling project. Get accurate estimates including waste allowance and total costs for ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles.
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.