Tile Calculator

Calculate the exact number of tiles needed for your flooring or wall project. Get accurate estimates including waste allowance, costs, and all necessary materials.

Tile Calculator

Calculate the number of tiles needed for your project including waste, costs, and materials

Room Dimensions

Tile Specifications

Tile Size

Basic grid pattern, minimal cuts

Packaging & Pricing

How to Measure for Tiles

Basic Room Measurement

1. Measure length and width of the room in feet
2. Multiply length × width for total square footage
3. Subtract areas for built-in fixtures (cabinets, islands)
4. Add 5-15% for waste depending on pattern complexity

Complex Layouts

L-shaped rooms: Break into rectangles, measure separately
Diagonal installations: Add 10-15% extra waste
Pattern tiles: May require 15-20% waste
Multiple rooms: Calculate each room individually

Tile Installation Patterns

Straight/Grid

Basic grid pattern aligned with walls. Easiest to install with minimal cuts.

Waste: 5%

Brick/Offset

Each row offset by half a tile. Creates a classic brick appearance.

Waste: 8%

Diagonal

Tiles rotated 45° to walls. Makes room appear larger but increases cuts.

Waste: 10%

Herringbone

V-shaped pattern creating zigzag effect. Complex installation requiring precision.

Waste: 15%

Material Requirements Guide

MaterialCoverageTypical CostNotes
Tile Adhesive50 sq ft per bag$25-40Choose based on tile size and substrate
Grout100-200 sq ft per bag$15-30Coverage varies by grout line width
Tile Spacers100 tiles per bag$10-20Size depends on desired grout line
Trim/EdgingBy linear foot$3-15 per ftAdd 10% extra for cuts and corners

Tile Size Guide

Small Tiles (4" and under)

Pros: Detailed look, good for small spaces, better slip resistance
Cons: More grout lines to clean, longer installation time
Best for: Bathrooms, backsplashes, accent areas

Medium Tiles (6"-12")

Pros: Balanced look, moderate installation time, versatile
Cons: May look busy in very large spaces
Best for: Most residential applications, kitchens, floors

Large Tiles (16" and up)

Pros: Modern look, fewer grout lines, faster installation
Cons: More waste on cuts, requires flatter substrate
Best for: Large rooms, contemporary designs, walls

Installation Cost Factors

Factors That Increase Cost

  • • Complex patterns (herringbone, chevron)
  • • Diagonal installation
  • • Small tile sizes (more labor intensive)
  • • Uneven substrate requiring leveling
  • • Multiple tile sizes in same project
  • • Intricate cuts around fixtures
  • • Premium tile materials

Ways to Save Money

  • • Choose simple grid patterns
  • • Use standard tile sizes (12"x12", 6"x6")
  • • Buy tiles in bulk for better pricing
  • • Prepare substrate properly beforehand
  • • Minimize cuts by planning layout
  • • Remove old flooring yourself
  • • Shop end-of-season sales

Frequently Asked Questions

How much extra tile should I buy?

Always buy 10-15% extra tiles beyond your calculated need. This accounts for breakage during installation and provides spares for future repairs. Complex patterns require even more waste allowance.

What's the difference between wall and floor tiles?

Floor tiles are rated for foot traffic and are typically thicker and more durable. Wall tiles can be thinner and may not be suitable for floors. Always check the tile rating before purchasing.

Can I install tiles myself?

Simple patterns on even surfaces can be DIY projects. However, complex patterns, uneven surfaces, or valuable tiles are best installed by professionals. Factor in tool rental and learning curve costs.

How long does tile installation take?

Professional installers can typically complete 75-150 sq ft per day depending on tile size and pattern complexity. Add extra time for substrate preparation and complex cuts.

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