Enter dimensions
ConstructionHow to calculate the number of tiles
Basic formula: room area divided by the area of a single tile gives the theoretical tile count. A waste allowance is added to this number since tiles need cutting at room edges or around obstacles (pipes, door openings), and part of the material becomes waste.
How much extra to allow
- Straight layout (10%): standard allowance for a simple straight pattern along walls.
- Diagonal layout (15%): more waste due to angled cuts.
- Complex pattern or mosaic (20%+): the most waste due to non-standard shapes and cuts.
- Irregularly shaped rooms: alcoves, protrusions, or many corners also increase the needed allowance.
Why box count matters
Tiles are usually sold in boxes with a fixed number of pieces (e.g., 4 or 8 tiles per box). Rounding the calculated tile count up to full boxes helps plan the purchase precisely, without needing to buy more mid-project.
It's recommended to buy all the tile you need from a single production batch, since different batches can have slight color shade differences that become noticeable when laid side by side.
FAQ
How much extra tile should I allow for cutting waste?
Typically 10% extra is recommended for straight layouts and 15-20% for diagonal or complex patterns with more cut pieces.
Why does grout line width matter?
Grout lines between tiles take up additional space, so for precise calculations it helps to add a few millimeters to each tile's size for a more realistic count.
Should I buy tile from a single production batch?
Yes, tile from different production batches can have slight color shade differences, so it's better to buy the full amount needed from a single batch.