Tile Calculator — How Many Tiles Do I Need?
Calculate the exact number of tiles, grout, and thinset for your floor or wall project. Choose from popular tile sizes or enter custom dimensions.
Formula: Tiles = Floor Area (sq ft) / Tile Area with Grout (sq ft) x (1 + Waste%)
How to Calculate Tiles for a Room
Accurate tile estimation saves money and prevents project delays. The basic formula is simple: divide the floor area by the area of a single tile (including the grout joint), then multiply by a waste factor.
For example, a 10×12 ft room (120 sq ft) with 12×12 inch tiles needs approximately 120 tiles before waste. Adding 10% waste brings the total to 132 tiles. Since tiles typically come in boxes covering 10-15 square feet, you would need about 9-12 boxes.
Choosing Grout Joint Width
The grout joint width affects the final look and the number of tiles needed. A 1/8" joint gives a tight, modern look and slightly reduces the tile count. A 1/4" joint is more forgiving for handmade or irregularly sized tiles. The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) recommends a minimum 1/16" joint for rectified tiles and 3/16" for non-rectified tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
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