Tile Calculator
Never run out of materials mid-project. Eliminate manual math errors and calculate exactly how many tiles and boxes are required for floors, bathroom walls, and kitchen backsplashes.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
1. Project Area
2. Tile Dimensions
3. Materials & Cost
Standard is 10%. Use 15-20% for diagonal layouts or complex rooms.
Mastering Installation Math
Contractors rarely use simple "Length x Width" square footage formulas when ordering tile. Because tiles are rigid geometric shapes, you cannot simply melt down leftover scrap pieces and pour them into the remaining corners. Every time you make a cut to fit a tile against a permanent wall, baseboard, or cabinet, a portion of that tile becomes useless waste.
The "Waste Factor" Rules
10% Overage
The standard baseline. Used for simple rectangular rooms using standard grid (straight-set) layouts.
15% Overage
Recommended for rooms with lots of angled walls, columns, fireplaces, or when using a diagonal pattern.
20% Overage
Required for highly complex patterns (like Double Herringbone or Versailles) where cuts are constant and brutal.
Large Format Tiles vs Small Tiles
The physical dimensions of your tile heavily impact how much waste you produce. If you are using massive 24" x 48" porcelain slabs in a small bathroom, a single bad cut could destroy $50 worth of material, and you'll structurally be creating much larger off-cuts that can't be reused elsewhere. Conversely, 1" x 1" mosaic glass tiles require virtually no complex angle cuts, making their waste factor incredibly low.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a Bathroom Remodel?
Share this exact materials estimator with your contractor or spouse before buying supplies at the hardware store.
Suggested hashtags: #TileRemodel #BathroomDesign #HomeImprovement #DIY #thecalcs