Tile Calculator – Quick & Accurate Estimates
Our free tile calculator helps you answer the common DIY question: “How many tiles do I need?”. Whether you’re tiling a bathroom wall, kitchen backsplash, or a large floor area, this tool provides fast and reliable estimates. Simply enter your room dimensions, tile size, grout joint width, and your preferred pattern, and the calculator does the rest—accounting for wastage so you don’t run short.
How to Use the Tile Calculator
- Choose your unit system (metric or imperial).
- Add one or more areas by entering their length and width.
- Enter your tile size and grout joint width.
- Select your pattern (straight, brick bond, or diagonal).
- Pick a wastage percentage—10% is standard, but diagonal layouts often need more.
- Click Calculate to see the total tiles required.
Patterns, Grout Joints & Wastage
Your chosen tile pattern and grout joint size both affect how many tiles you’ll need. A straight/stack bond is the most efficient with minimal cutting. Brick bond (50% or 33% offset) creates a more natural look but usually requires 2–5% more tiles. Diagonal layouts are beautiful but wasteful, so plan for at least 10–15% extra. Grout joints should be factored in as they slightly increase the module size of each tile.
Buying & Storage Tips
- Always round up to full boxes—tiles are rarely sold individually.
- Keep at least one spare box for future repairs or extensions.
- Check the batch or dye lot numbers to ensure consistent shading.
- Store leftover tiles in a dry place and label the box with the room name.
Planning Other Surface Projects?
If you’re working on outdoor areas or need to prepare a base, we also recommend:
- Paver Calculator – ideal for patios, driveways, and garden paths.
- Aggregate Calculator – useful for estimating crushed stone or gravel needed for sub-bases under tiles or pavers.
Important Estimate Disclaimer
The results provided by this calculator are intended as general estimates only and should not be considered precise engineering measurements. Actual material requirements, costs, and quantities can vary significantly based on site conditions, local building codes, soil type, reinforcement requirements, climate exposure, and the intended use of your project.
These calculators are designed to help you plan and budget your project more effectively, but they do not replace professional advice from a qualified contractor, engineer, or building inspector. Always verify your calculations and assumptions with trained professionals before placing material orders or commencing construction.
For more information on the assumptions, formulas, and data used in these tools, see our Data Sources and Methodology pages.
Material estimates, cost figures, and volume calculations are approximate and may not reflect your actual requirements. Always double-check dimensions and project-specific needs, and consider adding a contingency allowance for waste, over-excavation, and unforeseen conditions.
If you are unsure about any aspect of your project — including structural requirements, reinforcement needs, drainage, or load-bearing capacity — consult with a licensed professional before proceeding.