Free Tile Calculator
Calculate how many tiles you need for any room. Enter dimensions and tile size to get exact tile count, waste allowance, and boxes needed.
Tiles Needed (with waste)
132 tiles
Room Square Footage
120 sq ft
Boxes Needed
11 boxes
Tiles Per Box (12×12)
12 tiles/box
Formula
Tiles = (Room Sq Ft ÷ Tile Sq Ft) × (1 + Waste %) | Boxes = Tiles ÷ Tiles per BoxHow to Calculate Tiles for Your Project
Getting the right amount of tile is crucial — too few means a frustrating mid-project supply run, and too many wastes money. This calculator takes your room dimensions and tile size to determine exactly how many tiles and boxes you need, including a waste allowance for cuts and breakage.
The math is simple: divide your room's square footage by the area of a single tile, then add your waste percentage. A 12×12 inch tile covers 1 square foot, an 18×18 covers 2.25 square feet, and a 24×24 covers 4 square feet. Larger tiles cover more area per piece but often require more cuts in smaller rooms.
Understanding Tile Waste Percentages
Waste isn't just about broken tiles — it's primarily about cuts. Every time a tile meets a wall, doorway, or obstacle, you'll likely need to cut it. The cutoff piece may or may not be usable elsewhere. A standard 10% waste factor works for simple rectangular rooms with a grid layout. Increase to 15% for L-shaped rooms or those with many obstacles, and 20% for diagonal or complex patterns like herringbone.
Pro tip: buy all your tile from the same production lot. Tiles from different lots can have slight color variations that become noticeable when installed side by side.
Tile Size Selection Guide
12×12 inch tiles are the most versatile and easiest to handle. They work in any room size and produce less waste than larger formats. 18×18 inch tiles offer a more modern look with fewer grout lines and are the most popular choice for living areas and kitchens. 24×24 inch tiles create a sleek, contemporary appearance but require a very flat subfloor (no more than 1/8 inch variation over 10 feet) and are heavier to work with.
Cost Estimation Tips
Tile costs range widely: basic ceramic starts at $1-3 per square foot, porcelain runs $3-8, and natural stone can reach $10-30+. Don't forget to budget for thinset mortar ($15-25 per 50-lb bag, covering about 60-80 sq ft), grout ($10-15 per 25 lbs), spacers, and tools. For professional installation, add $5-15 per square foot for labor. A 120 sq ft room with mid-range porcelain tile typically costs $600-$1,200 for materials and $600-$1,800 for professional installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra tile should I buy for waste?
Plan for 10% extra for standard grid layouts. For diagonal or herringbone patterns, increase to 15-20% waste. Complex rooms with many cuts (around cabinets, doorways, or irregular walls) may need 15% extra. Always keep a few spare tiles for future repairs.
How many 12x12 tiles do I need per square foot?
Each 12×12 inch tile covers exactly 1 square foot. So for a 120 sq ft room, you need 120 tiles before waste. With 10% waste, order 132 tiles. This makes 12×12 the easiest size for quick mental math.
What tile size is best for small rooms?
Larger tiles (18×18 or 24×24) can actually make small rooms appear bigger because there are fewer grout lines breaking up the floor. However, larger tiles require a flatter subfloor and generate more waste in tight spaces due to more cuts.
How many tiles come in a box?
It varies by tile size. Typically, 12×12 tiles come in boxes of 10-15 (average 12). 18×18 tiles usually come in boxes of 6-10 (average 8). 24×24 tiles come in boxes of 4-8 (average 6). Always check the box coverage listed in square feet.
Should I install tile myself or hire a pro?
DIY tile installation can save 50-70% on labor costs. Simple rectangular rooms with 12×12 tiles are the easiest DIY projects. Hire a professional for large-format tiles (24×24+), complex patterns, shower installations, or rooms with many obstacles. Professional installation typically costs $5-15 per square foot.