Calculapedia

Tile Calculator: How Many Tiles Do I Need?

Calculate tile quantity, square footage, waste allowance, boxes, and cost for floors and walls.

Area to cover
Boxes needed
Estimated cost
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How this calculator works

It finds the area you’re covering and the area of a single tile, divides one by the other, then adds a waste allowance for cuts and breakage and rounds up to whole tiles and boxes.

Worked example — a 10 ft × 10 ft floor with 12 × 12 in tiles:
Area 100 sq ft, each tile 1 sq ft → 100 tiles. Add 10% → 110 tiles (11 boxes of 10).

Order tile by box coverage and layout

Cut edges, the occasional break, and future repairs all eat into your count. 10% is standard; use 15–20% for diagonal or herringbone layouts. Compare the calculator's tile count with the coverage printed on the box, then round up to whole boxes. If the package coverage differs from the nominal tile size, use the package coverage to make the purchase decision. Buy all visible-field tile from the same dye lot when possible, and keep a few uncut pieces for future repairs. After choosing tile, estimate setting material with the thinset calculator and joints with the grout calculator.

Frequently asked questions

How many 12×12 tiles for 100 sq ft?

110 tiles — 100 for the area plus 10% waste.

How much extra tile should I buy for overage?

Buy 10% extra for a simple layout, 15% for rooms with many cuts, and 20% for diagonal or herringbone patterns.

How many tiles do I need for a bathroom or shower?

Measure each wall or floor section separately, add the areas together, then add 10–15% for cuts, niches, corners, and breakage.

How do I calculate how many tiles I need?

Multiply the length and width of the area for square feet, divide by the area covered by one tile, then add a waste allowance and round up.

Planning a flooring or tile project

Buy the material for one room from the same product batch when possible. Layout, pattern direction, damaged pieces, and cuts around doors or cabinets affect waste, so a simple rectangular calculation is a starting point rather than a cutting plan.

How to use this estimate

Accuracy and limitations

Calculapedia provides educational planning estimates. It does not inspect your site, select products, guarantee quantities, or replace a contractor, engineer, architect, building official, or supplier. Confirm the final quantity and any safety or code requirements before buying or building.

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