Tile Calculator — How Many Tiles Do I Need? (Floor & Wall)
Calculate the exact number of tiles, boxes, thinset mortar, grout, and spacers for any floor or wall project. Supports standard, diagonal, and herringbone patterns.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the length and width of the area to be tiled
- Select your tile size (or enter custom dimensions)
- Choose your laying pattern — diagonal and herringbone add cutting waste
- Select grout joint width
- Click "Calculate Tile" for a complete materials estimate
How the Calculation Works
total_area_sqft = length × width
tile_area_sqft = (tile_width_in × tile_height_in) / 144
tiles_per_sqft = 1 / tile_area_sqft
// Pattern waste: Straight = 0 | Offset = 5% | Diagonal = 15% | Herringbone = 20%
total_tiles = ceil(total_area_sqft × tiles_per_sqft × (1 + waste + pattern_waste))
thinset_bags = ceil(total_area_sqft / 80) // 50lb bag covers ~80 sqft
grout_bags = ceil(total_area_sqft / 100) // varies by joint width Total tiles is calculated by dividing the room area by the area of a single tile, then adding waste and pattern-cutting allowance. Diagonal layouts add 15% cutting waste; herringbone adds 20%. Thinset mortar (50lb bags) covers approximately 80 square feet. Grout coverage varies by joint width — tighter joints use less grout.
Variables:
- tile_area_sqft: Area of one tile in square feet (width × height ÷ 144)
- tiles_per_sqft: Number of tiles that fit in one square foot
- pattern_waste: Extra waste from pattern cuts (diagonal +15%, herringbone +20%)
- thinset_bags: 50lb bags of thinset mortar (~80 sqft per bag)
- grout_bags: Bags of grout needed for joint coverage
Pro Tips
- Always start from the center of the room and work outward for a symmetrical layout
- Diagonal patterns require 15% extra tile for angled cuts at walls; herringbone needs 20%
- Use a notched trowel matching your tile size — larger tiles need deeper notches for proper coverage
- Let the thinset slump test guide you — press your thumb into it; ridges should hold without slumping
- Seal grout within 72 hours of installation to prevent staining and simplify cleaning
Recommended Products
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tiles do I need for a 10×10 floor?
A 10×10 floor is 100 sqft. Using 12×12" tiles (1 tile/sqft): 100 tiles + 10% waste = 110 tiles. Using 6×6" tiles (4 tiles/sqft): 400 tiles + 10% = 440 tiles. Always round up — you cannot buy partial tiles.
How many square feet are in a box of tile?
It varies by tile size. 12×12" tiles: typically 10–15 per box (10–15 sqft). 3×6" subway tiles: often 10 sqft per box. 24×24" large format: 4 per box (16 sqft). Always check the box label for exact coverage.
How much thinset do I need?
A 50lb bag of thinset mortar covers approximately 60–80 sqft depending on tile size and trowel notch depth. Larger tiles with back-buttering need more. Plan for 1 bag per 60 sqft to be safe.
What grout joint width should I use?
Rectified (precision-cut) tiles: 1/16" to 1/8". Standard ceramic tiles: 1/8" to 3/16". Large format tiles: 3/16" to 1/4". Natural stone: 1/4" to 3/8". Wider joints require sanded grout; narrower joints use unsanded.
Should I use sanded or unsanded grout?
Sanded grout for joints 1/8" and wider (more durable, less shrinkage). Unsanded grout for joints narrower than 1/8" (smoother, won't scratch polished tile). Epoxy grout is best for wet areas and high-traffic surfaces.