Tile Calculator

How to Calculate How Many Tiles You Need

Getting the right number of tiles for your project saves money and avoids delays. Our tile calculator takes the guesswork out of your renovation. If you are considering alternatives to tiles, try our flooring calculator for laminate, vinyl, or hardwood options.

The Tile Calculation Formula

Tiles needed = (Total Area ÷ Single Tile Area) × (1 + Waste Factor)

The effective tile area includes the grout joint width on two sides of each tile.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Measure the area — Record length and width of the surface to be tiled.
2. Choose your tile size — Common sizes: 30×30cm, 45×45cm, 60×60cm.
3. Select grout width — Standard is 3mm for rectified tiles, 5mm for rustic.
4. Add waste factor — 10% minimum, more for complex patterns.

Materials You'll Need Beyond Tiles

Choosing the Right Tile Layout

• Straight lay — Simplest, least waste (5-10% extra)
• Diagonal/Diamond — More visual interest, higher waste (15-20% extra)
• Herringbone — Premium look, complex cuts (15-20% extra)
• Brick/Offset — Good for rectangular tiles (10-15% extra)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not buying enough — Always order 10% extra minimum. Tile batches can vary in shade.
• Wrong adhesive — Use flexible adhesive for floor heating, waterproof for wet areas.
• Skipping waterproofing — Essential for bathrooms and kitchens near water.
• Ignoring tile direction — Check if tiles have a directional pattern before laying.
• Forgetting the subfloor — If you are tiling on a new concrete base, use our concrete calculator to get the slab quantity right before you start.

When to Hire a Professional Tiler

Professional tiling is recommended for bathrooms (waterproofing is critical), large-format tiles (60cm+), complex patterns, and heated floors. A skilled tiler ensures waterproof joints and level surfaces. Once the tiling is done, estimate the wall paint above the tiled area with our paint calculator.