dopecalc

Tile Calculator

Calculate how many floor or wall tiles you need for your tiling project. Accounts for waste percentage and shows box quantities needed based on your tile size.

sq ft
%
in
in

About this Calculator

Calculate how many floor or wall tiles you need for your tiling project. Accounts for waste percentage and shows box quantities needed based on your tile size.

Formula & Calculations

Formula

Tile Area (sq in) = Tile Width × Tile Length; Tiles per sq ft = 144 / Tile Area; Total Tiles = Floor Area × Tiles per sq ft × (1 + Waste%); Boxes = Total Tiles / Tiles per Box (round up)
Where:
  • Area=Total floor or wall area to be tiled in square feet
  • Tile W=Tile width in inches
  • Tile L=Tile length in inches
  • Waste %=Percentage of extra tiles for cuts and breakage

Assumptions

  • Standard box quantities: 12"×12" = 10 per box, 12"×24" = 8 per box, 6"×6" = 25 per box, other sizes = 10 per box.
  • Waste percentage of 10% is recommended for straight-lay patterns; 15-20% for diagonal patterns.
  • Does not account for grout joint width.

Calculation Examples

Example 1

Inputs:Area: 100 sq ft, Tile: 12 × 12 inches, 10% waste
Result:110 tiles needed, ~11 boxes

Each 12×12 tile covers 1 sq ft. 100 × 1.10 = 110 tiles. At 10 tiles/box, 110/10 = 11 boxes.

Example 2

Inputs:Area: 60 sq ft, Tile: 12 × 24 inches, 15% waste
Result:42 tiles needed, ~6 boxes

Each tile = 288 sq in (2 sq ft). Tiles needed = 60 × 0.5 tiles/sq ft = 30. With 15% waste: 30 × 1.15 = 34.5 → 35 tiles. 35/8 = 4.375 → 5 boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much waste should I allow for tile?

For a standard straight-lay pattern, allow 10% extra. For diagonal layouts, allow 15-20% extra. For herringbone or complex patterns, 15-20% is recommended.

How many tiles come in a standard box?

It varies by tile size. 12×12 tiles typically come 10 per box (10 sq ft). 12×24 tiles often come 8 per box (16 sq ft). 6×6 tiles may come 25 per box. Always check the manufacturer's packaging.