What this estimate includes
This estimate shows tile quantity, boxes, grout, and adjusted square footage based on your area, tile size, and waste percentage.
Before you order
Pattern, cuts, grout spacing, room shape, and dye lot can change the final quantity. Use this as a planning estimate and confirm with your tile supplier before ordering.
Need other flooring estimates? Try the vinyl flooring calculator or carpet calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tiles do I need for a 10x12 room?
A 10x12 room is 120 sq ft. Using 12x24 inch tiles (2 sq ft each), you need 60 base tiles plus waste. With 10% waste, order 66 tiles. With 15% for a diagonal layout, order 69 tiles.
How much waste should I add for tile?
For a straight lay, 10% is standard. For diagonal patterns, add 15%. For herringbone or complex patterns, add 15-20%. Tiles cut along walls and around obstacles create waste that cannot be reused.
Does grout spacing change the tile count?
For material quantity, grout joint width has a small effect on tile count. The main impact is visual spacing and grout quantity, not the number of tiles needed for the area.
Should I calculate by tiles per box or square feet per box?
Either method works. If your tile box lists tiles per box (common for small tiles), use that mode. If the box lists sq ft per box (common for large format tiles), use the sq ft mode. Check the box label before entering.
How many extra tiles should I keep after installation?
Keep at least 10% of your total order as spare tiles, ideally from the same dye lot. Tiles from different batches can vary in shade, and matching replacements years later is often impossible.
What tile pattern uses the most waste?
Diagonal and herringbone patterns generate the most waste because more cuts are needed at every wall edge. A diagonal layout can add 15-20% waste over a straight lay.
Do shower walls need a different estimate?
The square footage calculation is the same. However, shower installations require cement backer board, waterproofing membrane, and rated grout and caulk. The tile quantity estimate applies, but the prep materials are different.