Home & DIY calculator

Tile Calculator

Calculate full tiles and full boxes, not just surface area.

Your measurements

Metric + imperial

How this calculator works

Tiles = round up[(surface area ÷ tile area) × waste factor]. Boxes = round up(tiles ÷ tiles per box).

Worked example

A 3 m × 2.5 m surface is 7.5 m². With 30 cm × 30 cm tiles, 10% waste, and 12 tiles per box, buy 8 boxes (96 tiles).

Assumptions to check

  • The surface and tiles are rectangular.
  • Grout-joint area is ignored; waste normally covers small differences.
  • Pattern repeats, diagonal layouts, breakage, and batch matching can require more material.

Common questions

FAQ

Does grout spacing reduce the tile count?

Slightly, but for ordering purposes it is common to calculate from tile face area and include a waste allowance.

How much extra tile should I buy?

Many straightforward layouts use around 10%, while diagonal or highly cut layouts may need more. Follow the installer or manufacturer recommendation.

Why are purchased tiles higher than required tiles?

The calculator rounds to complete boxes because retailers normally sell tile by the box.