Tile Calculator

Use the tile calculator to estimate the amount of material required for a tiling project.

Measuring for Tile

Before beginning a tiling project, the installer will need to calculate the amount of material required. Underestimating can lead to project delays, while overestimating can lead to unnecessary expenses and waste. To determine the number of tiles required, the first step is to measure the area you plan to tile. Here's how:

Using a tape measure, calculate the length and width of the space in inches or centimeters, based on preference. For irregularly shaped spaces, divide the area into rectangles or squares and measure each segment separately.

Multiply the length by the width to determine the total area. If the space is divided into segments, calculate the area for each segment and then sum them up. For instance, if you're tiling a floor that's 10 feet long and 8 feet wide, the area is 80 square feet.

Calculation Factors for Tile

Grout Lines

Tiles are not typically laid edge-to-edge. Instead, they have gaps between them to allow for grout. These gaps, also known as grout lines, can impact the number of tiles required. 

The width of the grout line often varies based on the tile size and the desired appearance. While 1/16 inch is common for wall tiles, floor tiles might have wider gaps, like 1/8 inch. The tile manufacturer may specify a minimum grout line width. 

While the calculator will handle the intricate calculations, it's essential to understand that the area occupied by grout lines reduces the area covered by each tile.

Tile Layouts

The way tiles are laid can significantly affect the quantity required:

• Straight Lay or Grid: This is the most straightforward layout where tiles are laid side by side in straight rows. It's predictable and usually requires fewer cuts, resulting in minimal wastage.
• Diagonal Lay: In this layout, tiles are set at a 45-degree angle. It adds visual interest but might require more tiles due to the increased number of cuts, especially around the perimeters.
• Herringbone or Chevron: These intricate patterns can result in a lot of wastage because of the numerous cuts required. If opting for such designs, always factor in a higher buffer.
• Other Patterns: Other designs, like basketweave or windmill, can also influence the tile requirement. Always familiarize yourself with the pattern intricacies before estimating.

Tile Waste

Despite accurate measurements, always order extra tiles to account for breakage, miscalculations, or future repairs. A common practice is to order 10% more tiles than the estimated requirement for straightforward projects and up to 20% for intricate designs.

Accurate Estimating is Key for Tile Projects

Estimating accurately is the foundation of any successful tiling project. By understanding the space's measurements, accounting for grout lines, considering the tile layout, and keeping a buffer for wastage, contractors can ensure they have the right amount of material on hand. 

Manual estimates will always be prone to human error. Professional tile contractors often rely on estimating software for automated material takeoffs that produce much more accurate, repeatable results. 

Written by