Calculate Tiles Needed
Enter room dimensions and tile specifications to calculate materials needed.
Tile Calculation Results
Total Area
Area to be tiled
0 sq ft
Tiles Needed
Including waste factor
0 tiles
Boxes Needed
Based on tiles per box
0 boxes
Waste Tiles
For cuts and breakage
0 tiles
Grout Needed
Estimated grout amount
0 lbs
Tile Coverage
Per tile area
0 sq ft
Material Cost Estimate
$
per tile
$0.00
$
per bag
$0.00
$
per bag
$0.00
$0.00
Tile Layout Preview
Layout Key:
Full tile
Cut tile
Tile Calculator Guide: Professional Installation Tips
As a construction expert, I've seen many tile jobs fail due to poor planning. This guide covers everything from substrate preparation to grout selection.
Tile Types and Applications
| Tile Type | Best For | Water Absorption | PEI Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain | Bathrooms, Kitchens, Floors | < 0.5% | 4-5 |
| Ceramic | Walls, Backsplashes | 3-7% | 1-3 |
| Natural Stone | Accent walls, luxury | Varies | 2-4 |
| Glass | Backsplashes, accents | 0% | N/A |
Waste Factor Guidelines
- Simple rooms (rectangle): 10% waste
- Complex layout (L-shaped): 15% waste
- Diagonal pattern: Add 5% extra waste
- Herringbone pattern: 20% waste minimum
- Natural stone: 15-20% waste (matching veining)
- Large format tiles (> 24"): 15% waste (more breakage)
Grout Selection Guide
Grout width affects aesthetics and maintenance:
- 1/16" (1.5mm): Modern look, difficult to install, needs rectified tiles
- 1/8" (3mm): Standard for most installations
- 3/16" (5mm): For uneven tiles or rustic look
- 1/4" (6mm): For natural stone or outdoor use
Frequently Asked Questions
How much thinset/adhesive do I need?
Approximately 0.5 lbs per sq ft for 1/4" notched trowel. A 50lb bag covers about 100 sq ft. Always check manufacturer specifications.
Can I tile over existing tile?
Yes, if existing tile is securely attached, clean, and flat. Use a premium flexible thinset mortar and consider added height.