ConstructionCalculatorHub
Tile calculator

Tile Calculator

Estimate tile count and boxes using surface size, tile dimensions, grout joint, and waste allowance.

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Short answer

What this calculator does

This tile calculator counts whole rows and columns, includes the grout joint in the repeating module, tests both rectangular orientations, and applies waste to the lower-count layout.

Surface and tile

Tile layout details

The calculator counts full and cut positions by rows and columns, checks both tile orientations, then uses the lower valid count before adding waste.

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Calculated result
Tiles including waste132 tilesIncludes 10% waste
Surface area120 ft²
Grid layout12 × 10
Tile orientationAs entered
Tiles before waste120
Boxes to buy11

Tile positions = columns × rows, including grout joints. Both normal and 90°-rotated layouts are evaluated; the lower count is used.

The arithmetic uses the exact values shown above. Verify field measurements, product pack sizes, layout constraints, and local requirements before ordering or building.

Free to useNo signup requiredInstant calculationsMetric & imperial units

How to interpret the result

The estimate assumes a regular rectangular grid. Borders, diagonal patterns, niches, direction-sensitive designs, batch matching, and unusable offcuts can require a different layout and allowance.

Formula

How the result is calculated

Base tiles = surface area ÷ ((tile length + grout) × (tile width + grout)). Final tiles = base tiles × (1 + waste %).

Worked example

A 12 × 10 ft surface using 12 inch square tile and ⅛ inch joints requires about 131 tiles with 10% waste.

How to use this calculator

  1. Measure each tiled rectangle separately.
  2. Enter actual tile dimensions and planned grout-joint width.
  3. Add tiles per box from the product label.
  4. Review the chosen orientation and whole-box count.
  5. Confirm layout, substrate, movement joints, and installation method before ordering.

Supported units

Feet and inches in imperial mode; meters and millimeters in metric mode.

Practical guidance

  • Measure each separate area and add them.
  • Use a higher waste factor for diagonal layouts.
  • Keep spare tiles from the same dye lot for repairs.

Assumptions and limitations

This is a grid-layout estimate. Borders, niches, diagonals, patterns, breakage, and batch matching may require more waste.

Methodology

Each orientation counts complete module positions using tile size plus joint width. The lower whole-position result is selected, waste is applied, and boxes round up.

Read the complete calculation methodology and testing policy.

Sources and technical references

References support terminology, units, or practical constraints. They do not imply endorsement or project approval.

Frequently asked questions

Does grout spacing reduce tile count?

Yes. The repeating module includes the joint between tiles.

How much tile waste should I add?

Straight layouts often start around 10%; complex cuts or patterns may need more.

Are boxes rounded up?

Yes. When tiles per box is supplied, the result rounds up to a whole box.