How to Estimate the Number of Tiles Needed for a Project

Calculate the number of tiles needed for your next project.

If you are planing on adding tile to an area of your home as part of a remodel or other project, you will need to calculate the number of tiles needed to prevent buying an incorrect number of tiles. Tiles come in different sizes, and it might seem complicated to calculate the correct amount needed. But with some basic calculations this task can be made simple.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Calculator

Instructions

Estimate by Area

1. Measure the length of the area you would like to cover with tile in feet using a measuring tape. Round your measurement to the next foot if it is not a whole number. Write down the measurements on a piece of paper.

2. Measure the width of the project in feet, again using a measuring tape. Round your measurement to the next foot if needed and write the measurement down.

3. Calculate the area of the project by multiplying the length measurement by the width measurement. Use a calculator for an accurate result. Write the result down.

4. Add 15 percent to the area to allow for breakages and spares. Multiply the total area calculated in Step 3 by 0.15. Add this figure to the total area calculated in Step 3 for a result of the area plus the 15 percent.

5. Check the package of the tile you would like to purchase for the amount of area it will cover.

Estimate by Number of Tiles

1. Measure the length of the project in inches using a measuring tape. Write down the measurement.

2. Measure the width of the project in inches and write it down on a piece of paper.

3. Divide the length measurement of your project by the length of the tile, which should be noted on the package.

4. Divide the width measurement of your project by the width of the tile, again found on the package.

5. Multiply the results calculated in steps 3 and 4 for the total number of tiles. Add a few extra tiles to that number to allow for breakage and spares.

Tips & Warnings

• If the project is not rectangular or square, divide the area into smaller rectangular shapes, calculate each sector's area and add them together for a total area result.

References

• Dummies.com; Home Improvement for Dummies; Gene Hamilton
• Concept Tiles: Tile Guide