How do I calculate how many tiles I need?

Divide total square footage by the tile square footage (tile size ÷ 144 for square inches), then add 10% for waste. Round up to the nearest full box.

How much extra tile should I order?

Order 10% extra for straight-lay installations. Add 15% for diagonal patterns. Always order extra from the same lot to match dye batches for future repairs.

What size tile makes a small room look bigger?

Larger tiles (18×18 or 24×24) with thin grout lines make small rooms appear larger because there are fewer grout lines to visually break up the space.

How do I calculate tiles for a backsplash?

Measure the backsplash width and height in inches, multiply to get square inches, then divide by 144 to get square feet. Add 10-15% waste for cuts around outlets.

What grout joint size should I use?

For rectified (precision-cut) tiles, use 1/16" joints. For standard tiles, use 1/8" to 3/16" joints. Floor tiles typically use 1/8" to 1/4" joints for strength.

Tile Calculator – DIY Calculators — Free Home Improvement Tools

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Quick Answer

To calculate tiles needed, divide total square footage by the area of one tile (in square feet, converting tile dimensions from inches), then add 10% for waste. For diagonal patterns, add 15% — more cuts mean more waste, especially in corners.

Calculate how many tiles you need for any floor or wall project, including waste and cost.

Room Length (feet) Room Width (feet) Tile Size Waste Percentage (%) Cost Per Tile (optional, $)

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Cite This Tool

Tile Calculator. (2026). DIY Calculators Online. Retrieved from https://diycalculator.net/tile-calculator/

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