Tile Calculator
Enter the area to be tiled and the tile size — get exact tile count, number of boxes, and total square footage to order with industry-standard waste built in.
Check the box label — usually 5–15 tiles per box.
Results
Tip: store leftovers in a climate-controlled space for future repairs. Tiles from a different batch may not match.
Common Tile Sizes & Coverage
Reference for the most popular floor and wall tile sizes. Tiles per box vary by manufacturer, so always confirm at the store.
| Tile Size | Coverage per Tile | Typical per Box |
|---|---|---|
| 4" × 4" (mosaic) | 0.11 sq ft / tile | ~16 sq ft |
| 6" × 6" | 0.25 sq ft / tile | ~12 sq ft |
| 8" × 8" | 0.44 sq ft / tile | ~11 sq ft |
| 12" × 12" | 1.0 sq ft / tile | 10–15 sq ft |
| 12" × 24" | 2.0 sq ft / tile | 14–16 sq ft |
| 18" × 18" | 2.25 sq ft / tile | 13.5 sq ft |
| 24" × 24" | 4.0 sq ft / tile | 16 sq ft (4 tiles) |
How Layout Affects Waste
Straight Lay — 10% waste
Tiles aligned to walls with minimal cuts at the perimeter. The most material-efficient pattern and the easiest for DIY.
Diagonal — 15% waste
Tiles set at 45 degrees create a more dynamic look but every perimeter tile becomes a cut piece. Plan extra material accordingly.
Herringbone / Chevron — 20% waste
Both patterns demand precise cuts at the room edges and double the labor. Higher waste also accounts for tile breakage during fitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Tile is often paired with grout, paint, and flooring — calculate the rest of the renovation here.
Square Feet Calculator
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Flooring Calculator
Estimate flooring material needed with industry-standard waste percentages.
Paint Coverage Calculator
Calculate how many gallons of paint you need based on wall area and coats.
Carpet Calculator
Calculate carpet square footage and yards including seam and pile allowance.
Wallpaper Calculator
Calculate wall area and the number of wallpaper rolls needed for a room.
Sources
The figures on this page are based on data from these authoritative industry sources.
- National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) — Installation guidelines and waste recommendations for wood flooring.
- The Home Depot Buyer’s Guides — Retail price ranges for flooring, paint, and finishing materials.