How to Calculate Tiles
Enter your tile size and the area to cover. The calculator accounts for grout gaps to give an accurate tile count.
Common Tile Sizes
- 12" x 12": Classic floor tile, easy to install
- 12" x 24": Modern rectangular, popular for floors
- 6" x 6": Standard wall tile
- 3" x 6": Subway tile for backsplashes
- 24" x 24": Large format for open spaces
Grout Gap Guidelines
- 1/16": Rectified tiles, tight joints
- 1/8": Standard for wall tiles
- 1/4": Standard for floor tiles
- 3/8": Rustic or handmade tiles
How Many Tiles You Need
The formula: Tiles = Area ÷ (Tile Width + Grout Gap) × (Tile Height + Grout Gap). Then add your waste factor. Example: 100 sq ft floor with 12×12" tiles and 1/4" grout gaps needs about 100 tiles + 10% = 110 tiles.
Choosing the Right Tile
- Ceramic: $1-7/sq ft. Good for walls and low-traffic floors. Easy to cut, lightweight
- Porcelain: $3-10/sq ft. Denser and more water-resistant than ceramic. Best for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor use
- Natural stone: $5-25/sq ft. Marble, slate, travertine. Requires sealing. Each piece is unique
- Glass mosaic: $5-15/sq ft. Decorative backsplashes and accents. Not for floors
Installation Tips
- Dry-lay tiles before adhering to check the pattern and plan cuts
- Start from the center of the room and work outward for symmetrical borders
- Use tile spacers for consistent grout lines
- Plan cuts so edge tiles are at least half a tile wide — narrow slivers look unprofessional and break easily
- For floors, use floor-rated thinset mortar. Wall adhesive won't hold floor tiles
- Wait 24 hours after setting tiles before grouting