Tile Calculator
Calculate how many tiles you need for floors, walls, or backsplashes.
Reviewed March 2026 How we build our calculators →
Tiles Needed
Includes waste factor
Room Area
Tile Area
The Formula
Formula
Tiles needed = Area (ft²) / Tile area (ft²)
Add 10–15% for cuts and waste
Tile area = (tile size in inches)² / 144
Add 10–15% for cuts and waste
Tile area = (tile size in inches)² / 144
Worked Example
Floor: 120 ft² · 12×12 inch tiles (1 ft²)
Tiles = 120 / 1 = 120
+ 10% waste = 132 tiles
Order 135 tiles (rounding up)
Tiles = 120 / 1 = 120
+ 10% waste = 132 tiles
Order 135 tiles (rounding up)
How to Calculate Tile Quantity
Area (sq ft) ÷ tile area (sq ft) = number of tiles. Always add 10% for waste (cuts, breakage), or 15–20% for diagonal installations. Buy extra from the same batch — dye lots vary and matching tiles later can be difficult.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tile is best for a small bathroom?
Larger tiles (12×24" or larger) actually make small rooms feel bigger by reducing the number of grout lines. Small mosaic tiles work well for shower floors where smaller tiles are safer due to more grout lines providing grip.
How do I calculate tile for a backsplash?
Measure the width and height of each section of backsplash and calculate the area. Subtract the area of windows, outlets, and other openings. Add 10% for waste.