Tile Calculator
Calculate tiles, grout, and mortar needed for floors, walls, and backsplashes
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Quick Answer
To calculate tiles needed: (Room sq ft × 1.10 for waste) ÷ Tile sq ft = Number of tiles. A 100 sq ft room with 12×12" tiles needs 110 tiles (including 10% waste).
Planning a tile installation for floors, bathroom walls, kitchen backsplash, or shower? This calculator determines exactly how many tiles you need plus grout and mortar quantities, accounting for different tile sizes, patterns, and waste factors.
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian
15+ years experience
PhD from Yale University. Published mathematical historian ensuring precision in all calculations.
Education
PhD in Mathematical History - Yale University
Tile Size Coverage Reference
| Tile Size | Sq Ft/Tile | Tiles/Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| 4×4" | 0.11 | 9 |
| 6×6" | 0.25 | 4 |
| 8×8" | 0.44 | 2.25 |
| 12×12" | 1.0 | 1 |
| 12×24" | 2.0 | 0.5 |
| 18×18" | 2.25 | 0.44 |
| 24×24" | 4.0 | 0.25 |
Tile Pattern Waste Factors
| Pattern | Waste | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Straight/Grid | 5-10% | Easy |
| Diagonal | 10-15% | Medium |
| Brick/Offset | 10% | Easy |
| Herringbone | 15-20% | Hard |
| Versailles | 15-20% | Hard |
| Chevron | 15-20% | Hard |
Tile Installation Pro Tips
- • Start from center of room and work outward
- • Dry lay tiles before setting to check pattern
- • Use tile spacers for consistent grout lines
- • Cut edge tiles last for best fit
- • Let thinset cure 24 hours before grouting
- • Seal natural stone before and after grouting
- • Use unsanded grout for joints under 1/8"
- • Back-butter large format tiles (>15×15")
Frequently Asked Questions
How many 12×12 tiles do I need for 100 square feet?
100 sq ft ÷ 1 sq ft per tile = 100 tiles. Add 10% waste = 110 tiles total.
How do I calculate tiles needed for a bathroom?
Measure floor area (length × width). For walls, measure height × width for each wall. Add all areas together, then add 10% waste.
How much grout do I need for 100 square feet?
One 10 lb bag of sanded grout covers 100-200 sq ft depending on tile size and joint width. For 100 sq ft with 12×12" tiles: 1 bag.
Should I buy extra tiles?
Yes, buy 10-15% extra for waste and future repairs. Tile batches vary in color, so you may not find exact match later.
How many tiles come in a box?
Varies by size. 12×12" tiles: 15-20 per box. 18×18" tiles: 8-10 per box. 6×6" tiles: 40-48 per box. Check manufacturer specs.
How much thinset do I need?
One 50 lb bag of thinset covers approximately 95 sq ft with a 1/4" trowel. For 100 sq ft, you need about 1-2 bags.
Can I tile over existing tile?
Yes, if existing tile is firmly attached, clean, and level. Roughen surface with sandpaper, use bonding primer, and use appropriate thinset.
What's the difference between sanded and unsanded grout?
Sanded grout for joints 1/8" and wider (floors, most wall tile). Unsanded for joints under 1/8" (glass tile, polished stone).
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian | PhD from Yale
Dr. Lawrence is a published mathematical historian with a PhD from Yale University. She ensures mathematical precision and accuracy in all our calculations, conversions, and academic score calculators. Her expertise spans computational mathematics and educational assessment.
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