Tile Calculator – Quick & Accurate Estimates
Our free tile calculator helps you answer the common DIY question: “How many tiles do I need?”. Whether you’re tiling a bathroom wall, kitchen backsplash, or a large floor area, this tool provides fast and reliable estimates. Simply enter your room dimensions, tile size, grout joint width, and your preferred pattern, and the calculator does the rest—accounting for wastage so you don’t run short.
How many tiles do I need? (Formula)
This calculator uses an area-based estimate:
Tiles ≈ Total Area ÷ (Tile + Joint Area) × (1 + Waste).
“Tile + Joint Area” is the effective module size of each tile, including grout joint width.
Pattern and orientation mainly affect cutting and wastage, so they’re best handled by choosing an appropriate waste percentage.
How to Use the Tile Calculator
- Choose your unit system (metric or imperial).
- Add one or more areas by entering their length and width.
- Enter your tile size and grout joint width.
- Select your pattern (straight, brick bond, or diagonal).
- Pick a wastage percentage—10% is standard, but diagonal layouts often need more.
- Click Calculate to see the total tiles required.
Patterns, Grout Joints & Wastage
Your chosen tile pattern and grout joint size both affect planning. A straight/stack bond is typically the most efficient with minimal cutting. Brick bond can increase cuts depending on edges and obstacles. Diagonal layouts are beautiful but wasteful—plan for at least 10–15% extra. Grout joints are included by slightly increasing the effective module size per tile.
Buying & Storage Tips
- Always round up to full boxes—tiles are rarely sold individually.
- Keep at least one spare box for future repairs or extensions.
- Check the batch or dye lot numbers to ensure consistent shading.
- Store leftover tiles in a dry place and label the box with the room name.
Related Interior Calculators
Tile Calculator FAQs
How many tiles do I need per square metre?
Tiles per m² depends on tile size and grout joint. A quick estimate is 1 ÷ (effective tile module area), where module area is (tile length + joint) × (tile width + joint). This calculator shows tiles per m² automatically.
How many tiles are in a box?
Tiles per box varies by manufacturer. Check the carton label for tiles per box or coverage per box (m²/ft²). If you know tiles per box, divide your total tile count by that number and round up to full boxes.
What wastage percentage should I use for diagonal layouts?
Diagonal (45°) patterns typically need more cuts, so 12–15% wastage is common. Straight layouts often work with 5–10%, while brick/running bond often falls around 10–12% depending on room complexity.
Does grout width affect tile count?
Yes, slightly. Wider grout increases the effective module size (tile + joint), which can reduce the calculated tile count a little. The real-world effect is usually small compared with cuts and layout waste.
How do I calculate tiles for multiple rooms?
Add each room/section as a separate area and enter its length and width. The calculator sums all areas and estimates the total tiles needed.
Important Estimate Disclaimer
Results are provided for general planning and budgeting purposes only. Actual coverage may vary based on surface condition, layout complexity, waste allowance, and product specifications.
Refer to our Methodology and Data Sources for calculation assumptions.
Surface preparation, substrate irregularities, and installation methods may increase required material quantities.