A tile installation covers 1,200 square feet using 12-inch × 12-inch tiles. Including 8% waste factor, how many tiles are needed?
Correct Answer
B) 1,296 tiles
Each 12" × 12" tile covers 1 square foot, so 1,200 tiles are needed. Adding 8% waste: 1,200 × 1.08 = 1,296 tiles total.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Each 12-inch × 12-inch tile covers exactly 1 square foot (12" ÷ 12" = 1 sq ft). For 1,200 square feet, you need 1,200 tiles before waste factor. Adding the 8% waste factor: 1,200 × 1.08 = 1,296 tiles. This accounts for cuts, breakage, and future repairs that are standard in tile installations.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 1,555 tiles
This answer only accounts for the base coverage (1,200 tiles) but fails to include the required 8% waste factor, which is essential for any tile installation project.
Option D: 1,200 tiles
This answer incorrectly calculates waste as 20% instead of 8% (1,200 × 1.20 = 1,440), which would be excessive for a standard tile installation.
Memory Technique
Remember '1.08 for 8%' - always convert waste percentage to a multiplier by adding 1.00 to the decimal (8% = 0.08, so multiplier = 1.08)
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code, Chapter 4 - Masonry and Tile Installation, or construction estimating references covering material waste factors
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