Tile Calculator

Determine exactly how many tiles to purchase for your next renovation. Accurately accounts for grout lines and the necessary waste buffer.

Tile Calculation: 1. Total Area = Length × Width 2. Effective Tile Area = (Tile Length + Grout) × (Tile Width + Grout) 3. Tiles Needed = (Total Area ÷ Effective Tile Area) × (1 + Waste Factor)
A 10ft x 12ft room (120 sq ft) with 12x12 tiles and 1/8 inch grout: Including 10% waste, you would need approximately 132 tiles.

How much extra tile should I buy for waste?

A standard rule of thumb is to add 10% for basic rectangular rooms. If you are laying tile on a diagonal or have a complex room shape with many alcoves, you should add 15-20% for waste and cuts.

Do I need to include the grout line in my calculation?

Yes, grout lines can slightly reduce the number of tiles needed, especially for smaller tiles. However, most people ignore them to provide a safety buffer in their estimate. This calculator allows you to include grout width for a more precise count.

How do I calculate tiles for a wall?

Wall calculations are the same as floors: multiply the height by the width of the wall area. Subtract the area of any windows or doors. For a shower, calculate each wall individually and add them together.

What is the standard size for floor tiles?

Common sizes include 12"x12", 18"x18", 12"x24", and increasingly popular large format tiles like 24"x24" or 24"x48". Smaller tiles (like 1"x1" mosaics) are common for shower floors for better grip.