Tile Calculator — How Many Tiles Do I Need?
Find out exactly how many tiles to order for any floor, wall, or backsplash project. Enter the area, your tile size, and grout joint width — we’ll handle the math and add a waste buffer.
Industry standard is 10%. Increase for complex cuts, patterns, or rough surfaces.
Results are estimates based on the dimensions and specifications you provide. Actual material needs may vary based on project conditions, material waste, and installation method. Always consult with a professional for complex projects.
What's next
How this calculator works
We compute the area you’re covering, then divide by the effective tile area — that is, the tile dimensions plus the grout joint width on two sides. The result is rounded up, then multiplied by 1 + waste factor. Standard tile installations use a 10% waste factor; diagonal layouts and herringbone patterns need 15–20% to account for cut tiles.
More about this calculator
Tile waste matters more than for most materials because individual tiles can chip during cutting, and dye lot variation between boxes purchased later means a partial reorder rarely matches. Always buy at least one extra full box beyond what the calculator suggests, and store them for future repairs.
Grout joint width affects tile count more than people realize. A 1/8 inch joint on a 12 × 12 inch tile changes the effective coverage from 144 to 148.5 square inches, dropping your tile count slightly. Larger joints (used with rectified or rustic tiles) compound that effect.
Layout pattern affects waste. A straight grid is the most efficient at about 10% waste; offset patterns run 12–15%; diagonal layouts and herringbone need 15–20% because every cut on a wall edge produces an unusable triangle.
Frequently asked questions
10% for a straight-grid layout, 15% for offset or brick-pattern layouts, and 20% for diagonal or herringbone patterns where edge cuts produce more scrap.
Always round up to the next full box. Tile dye lots vary between production runs, so buying a partial replacement box later rarely matches your installed tile.
1/16 inch for rectified tiles, 1/8 inch for most ceramic and porcelain tiles, 3/16 to 1/4 inch for rustic or hand-made tiles where dimensions vary.
Yes. Even rectified tiles need consistent joint spacing (often 1/16 inch) to allow for grout and movement.