Tile Calculator
Free online tile calculator to estimate the number of tiles needed for floor and wall projects. Calculate by area or room dimensions, includes grout spacing and waste percentage. Get accurate tile estimates.
Calculate Tiles by Area
Calculate Tiles by Room Dimensions
What is a Tile Calculator?
A Tile Calculator is a practical tool for homeowners, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts to estimate the number of tiles required for flooring or wall tiling projects. It accounts for tile dimensions, grout spacing, and waste percentage to provide accurate estimates. This helps in purchasing the right quantity of tiles, avoiding shortages or excessive leftovers, and planning your budget effectively.
Common Tile Sizes
- Small Format (mosaic): 2×2 in (5×5 cm) to 6×6 in (15×15 cm) - Used for detailed work, backsplashes, and decorative accents
- Medium Format: 8×8 in (20×20 cm) to 12×12 in (30×30 cm) - Popular for walls and floors, versatile and easy to install
- Large Format: 16×16 in (40×40 cm) to 24×24 in (60×60 cm) - Modern look, fewer grout lines, faster installation
- Plank/Rectangular: 6×24 in (15×60 cm), 12×24 in (30×60 cm) - Wood-look tiles, creates elongated appearance
Tile Calculation Formulas
Effective Tile Area (with grout):
Tile Area = (Length + Grout) × (Width + Grout)
Number of Tiles Needed:
Tiles Needed = (Area to Cover / Tile Area) × (1 + Waste %)
Total Tiles with Waste:
Total Tiles = Base Tiles × (1 + Waste/100)
About Grout Spacing
Grout spacing (or grout gap) is the space between tiles filled with grout. Standard grout spacing ranges from 1/16 inch (1.5mm) for rectified tiles with straight edges, to 1/4 inch (6mm) or more for rustic tiles. Larger tiles generally use smaller grout lines (2-3mm), while smaller tiles use wider spacing (3-5mm). The grout gap affects the number of tiles needed and the overall appearance of the installation.
Tips for Using Tile Calculator
- Always add 10-15% waste for straight patterns, 15-20% for diagonal or complex patterns
- Measure your space carefully - account for alcoves, doorways, and irregular shapes
- Consider tile orientation - some tiles are directional (wood-look, patterned)
- Order all tiles from the same batch to ensure color consistency
- Standard grout spacing is 3-5mm for floor tiles, 2-3mm for wall tiles
- Larger tiles require fewer cuts and faster installation but more waste on edges
- Check if tiles are sold individually, by the box, or by square footage
- Keep a few extra tiles for future repairs - discontinued patterns are hard to match
- For complex layouts (herringbone, chevron), add 20-25% waste
- Rectified tiles have straight edges and can use minimal grout spacing
About Tiling
Tiling is a durable and versatile flooring and wall covering option used in residential and commercial spaces. Common materials include ceramic, porcelain, natural stone (marble, granite, slate), and glass. Ceramic tiles are made from clay fired at high temperatures, while porcelain tiles are denser and more water-resistant. Proper installation requires a level substrate, appropriate adhesive, and skilled application. Grout fills the spaces between tiles and should be sealed to prevent staining and moisture penetration. Tile installation typically involves planning the layout, cutting tiles to fit, applying thin-set mortar, placing tiles with spacers, and grouting the joints. Professional installation is recommended for large areas or complex patterns.