Free tile calculator

How many boxes of tile do I need?

Enter your surface size, pick a layout pattern for a waste allowance, and enter the coverage printed on the tile box. This calculator uses the same box-rounding math as the TileCount iPhone app: tile is ordered in full boxes, so the waste-adjusted area is rounded up to whole boxes.

This calculator needs JavaScript. The formula is simple to run by hand: net area × (1 + waste%) ÷ sq ft per box, rounded up to a whole box. Example: 120 sq ft × 1.10 = 132 sq ft; 132 ÷ 10 = 13.2 → 14 boxes.

Net area 120 sq ft

Order area (with waste) 132 sq ft

Tile boxes to order 14

Purchased tile 140 sq ft

What this calculator does not cover

Openings and deductions, niches, grout and thinset quantities, backer board, waterproofing, movement joints, trim, labor, and pricing. The TileCount app estimates all of those, per space, with a client-ready proposal PDF — the Quick Calc is free.

Where the waste percentages come from

Straight and running-bond layouts commonly plan around 10% cutting waste; stacked layouts slightly less; diagonal, herringbone, and chevron layouts waste more because of angled cuts at every edge. Complex rooms, small tile against big offsets, or natural stone lots can justify more — when in doubt, order the next box up.

Estimates are not guarantees. This tool provides planning estimates based on the numbers you enter. Always verify quantities, dimensions, box coverage, manufacturer instructions, local code requirements, and jobsite conditions before ordering materials, signing a contract, or starting work.

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