Tile Calculator - Calculate Tiles Needed for Floor or Wall

About this tool

Our Tile Calculator is the ultimate tool for accurately estimating tile quantities for any home improvement project. Whether you're tiling a bathroom floor, installing a kitchen backsplash, or covering an entire basement, this calculator provides precise estimates based on your specific measurements and tile sizes. The tool supports all common tile dimensions including 12"×12", 6"×6", 4"×4", 18"×18", and custom rectangular sizes. It automatically calculates the number of individual tiles needed, converts to boxes (based on tiles per box), and provides a complete cost breakdown for budgeting.

Unlike basic area calculators, our tool incorporates essential real-world factors that professional tilers use. The waste factor accounts for cuts, breakage during installation, and future repairs. Standard straight-lay patterns require 10-15% extra tiles, while diagonal or herringbone patterns need 15-20% waste due to more complex cuts. The calculator also considers grout lines (typically 1/8" to 1/4"), which slightly reduce the effective coverage area of each tile. These small details make a significant difference in the final tile count, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars by preventing over-ordering or the nightmare of running short mid-project.

For complex rooms with alcoves, islands, or irregular shapes, you can calculate each section separately and sum the results. The tool provides both tiles-per-square-foot and total-tiles-needed, making it easy to cross-verify your estimates. Many tile retailers sell tiles by the box rather than individual pieces, so our calculator shows both individual tile count and number of boxes needed (assuming standard box sizes of 12, 15, or 18 tiles per box, which you can customize). This box calculation ensures you purchase complete boxes and don't end up with shortages.

Professional contractors, interior designers, and DIY homeowners trust our tile calculator for accurate material estimates. The cost estimation feature helps you compare different tile options by brand, material (ceramic, porcelain, natural stone), and quality level. Higher-priced tiles often save money in the long run through better durability and lower breakage rates during installation. The calculator also helps you decide if splurging on expensive tiles for a small backsplash is within budget, or if you should consider more economical options for large floor areas.

Usage examples

Area: 48 sq ft → 60 tiles needed (including waste)

Area: 20 sq ft → 276 tiles (17.3 boxes of 16)

Area: 300 sq ft → 147 tiles (7.4 boxes of 20)

Area: 48 sq ft → 233 tiles (15.5 boxes of 15)

How to use

1. Select your project area (floor, wall, or specific dimensions)
2. Enter room or area dimensions in feet and inches
3. Input your tile size (common sizes: 12x12, 6x6, 4x4 inches)
4. Choose waste factor percentage (typically 10-15% for straight layouts, 15-20% for diagonal)
5. Enter tile price per piece or per box for cost estimation
6. View results showing number of tiles, boxes needed, and total cost
7. See coverage area breakdown and grout line calculations

Benefits

• Accurate tile quantity calculations for any project size
• Supports all common tile sizes and custom dimensions
• Includes waste factor for cuts, breakage, and future repairs
• Calculates both individual tiles and boxes needed
• Accounts for grout line spacing in coverage calculations
• Cost estimation with per-tile and per-box pricing
• Helps prevent over-ordering and under-ordering
• Mobile-friendly for use at tile stores
• Separate calculations for floor, wall, and backsplash projects
• Free tool with instant results
• Professional-grade accuracy used by contractors

FAQs