How do I calculate how many tiles I need?

Measure the length and width of your area in feet to get the total square footage. Then divide by the area of a single tile (converted to square feet). Add 10% extra for waste due to cuts and breakage. Our calculator does all of this automatically.

What is a good waste factor for tile?

A 10% waste factor is standard for straightforward layouts. For diagonal or herringbone patterns, use 15%. For complex rooms with many cuts or large-format tiles, use 15-20%. Our calculator defaults to 10% but you can adjust it.

How does grout width affect tile quantity?

Grout lines add spacing between tiles, which means each tile effectively covers a slightly larger area. Standard grout width is 1/8 inch (0.125") for most floor tiles. Larger grout lines (1/4") mean you need fewer tiles but more grout.

What size tile is best for a small bathroom?

For small bathrooms, 12x12 or 12x24 inch tiles work well. Larger tiles create fewer grout lines, making the space look bigger. Avoid very large tiles (24x24) in tight spaces as they require more cuts and waste.

How many tiles come in a box?

Most tile boxes contain 10-15 tiles, depending on the tile size. Standard 12x12 inch tiles typically come 10 per box covering about 10 sq ft. Our calculator assumes 10 tiles per box but always check the box coverage listed by the manufacturer.

Should I buy extra tiles beyond the waste factor?

Yes, it's wise to keep 2-3 extra tiles after installation for future repairs. Tile colors and dye lots can vary between production runs, so matching later can be difficult. Factor this into your purchase on top of the waste percentage.