Tile Calculator

Calculate tiles needed for floors and walls with waste factor.

Tile Size
0% \u2013 30%
Cost Estimate (optional)
Tiles Needed (with 10% waste)
130 tiles
118 tiles + 12 for waste
120.0
Room Area (ft\u00b2)
1.000
Tile Area (ft\u00b2)
118
Tiles (no waste)
13
Boxes (10/box)
130.0
Total Coverage (ft\u00b2)
Layout
Tiles across (width) 10
Tiles down (length) 12
Grid 10 \u00d7 12 = 120
Grout Estimate
Estimated grout needed 120 lbs
Bags needed (25 lb bags) 5
Based on 0.125 in gap width. Actual usage varies with tile thickness and application technique.
Waste allowance accounts for cuts, breakage, and pattern matching. Use 10% for standard layouts, 15% for diagonal patterns, and 20% or more for complex patterns or irregular rooms. Always keep a few spare tiles for future repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate how many tiles I need?

Divide the total area by the area of one tile. For a 120 sq ft room with 12x12 inch tiles: each tile covers 1 sq ft, so you need 120 tiles. Then add your waste factor (typically 10-15%): 120 x 1.10 = 132 tiles. The calculator handles the math for any room and tile dimensions, including metric sizes.

What waste factor should I use?

Use 10% for simple rectangular rooms with straight cuts. Use 15% for rooms with angles, alcoves, or complex layouts. Use 20% for diagonal patterns or first-time tilers. The waste accounts for cuts at edges, breakage, and future repairs. The calculator lets you adjust the waste percentage to match your project.

Does grout spacing affect tile count?

Yes — grout lines increase the effective size of each tile slightly, which can reduce the number of tiles needed for large areas. For 12x12 tiles with 1/4 inch grout: effective size is 12.25 x 12.25 inches. The calculator includes a grout line option for precise calculations.

How do I calculate tiles for a wall or backsplash?

The process is the same as floor tiles: measure the wall area (height x width) and subtract areas for windows, doors, or openings. The calculator includes fields for deductions. For a backsplash, measure the total area between countertop and upper cabinets.

Can I estimate the total cost?

Yes — enter the price per tile or per square foot and the calculator multiplies by the total tile count (including waste). It shows the tile cost, estimated grout and adhesive cost, and total materials cost. This helps you compare different tile options and stay within budget.