Tile Calculator
Calculate how many tiles you need for floors, walls, and backsplashes. Get accurate material estimates including grout, mortar, and cost.
Tile Estimate
Tiles Needed
130
Incl. 10% waste
Boxes
13
10 tiles/box
Tile Estimate
Tiles Needed
130
Incl. 10% waste
Boxes
13
10 tiles/box
Project Type
Floor tiles: Consider durability rating (PEI 3-5 for high traffic).
Area to Tile
Total Area: 120.0 sq ft (11.15 sq m)
Tile Size
Quick select common sizes:
Options
Materials Needed
Cost Estimate
* Does not include spacers, sealer, tools, or labor. Actual costs may vary.
How It's Calculated
1. Calculate Area
12 × 10 = 120.0 sq ft
2. Tile Coverage (including grout)
(12 + 0.125) × (12 + 0.125) = 147.02 sq inches
3. Tiles Needed (base)
120.0 sq ft ÷ 1.0209 sq ft/tile = 118 tiles
4. Add 10% Waste
118 × 1.10 = 130 tiles
Pro Tips
- •Buy all tiles from the same lot/batch to ensure consistent color matching.
- •Order 10-15% extra and keep some tiles for future repairs.
- •For diagonal layouts, increase waste to 20-25% due to more cuts.
- •Large format tiles (>15") need modified thinset and flat substrate.
- •Dry-lay tiles before installing to check pattern and plan cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Add 10% waste for simple rectangular rooms with minimal cuts. Add 15% for rooms with obstacles (toilets, islands). Add 20% for diagonal layouts or complex patterns. Add 25% for hexagonal tiles or intricate designs. Always round up when ordering.
Measure each wall's height and width, multiply for area. Subtract window and door areas. Add all wall areas together. Don't forget to add waste percentage. For backsplashes, measure the counter-to-cabinet height and total length.
Standard grout lines are 1/8" to 3/16". Use 1/8" for rectified tiles with precise edges. Use 1/4" for rustic or handmade tiles with variation. Subway tiles traditionally use 1/16" for a tight look. Wider grout lines hide installation imperfections.
It varies by size and manufacturer. Common counts: 12"×12" tiles: 10-15 per box. 4"×4" tiles: 80-100 per box. 3"×6" subway: 80-100 per box. Always check the box coverage (sq ft) and piece count before purchasing.
Thinset mortar for most floor and wall tiles. Modified thinset for large format tiles (>15"). Mastic for small wall tiles in dry areas. Epoxy mortar for high-moisture areas like showers. White thinset under glass or light-colored tiles.
Tile Estimate
Tiles Needed
130
Incl. 10% waste
Boxes
13
10 tiles/box