Interiors calculator
Tile Calculator
Calculate tile pieces and whole boxes for a measured surface, with a visible cutting allowance.
Planning estimate, not a contractor quote. Review the assumptions and replace presets with local prices when available.
Method
How this calculator works
Enter the net rectangle to cover and exclude surfaces that will not receive tile. The estimate uses actual tile-face dimensions, then rounds the result to complete retail boxes. It is an area-based takeoff rather than a row-by-row layout, which matters for diagonal patterns, borders, and narrow cuts.
Net area = length × width − excluded area. Tile area in ft² = tile length inches × tile width inches ÷ 144. Pieces = ceil(net area × allowance factor ÷ tile area). Boxes = ceil(pieces ÷ pieces per box).
Worked example
A realistic starting point
A 20 × 10 ft floor with no exclusions and 10% allowance has 220 ft² to purchase. Actual 12 × 12 inch tiles cover 1 ft² each, giving 220 pieces. At 10 pieces per box, that is 22 boxes.
What changes the answer
Factors worth checking
Actual sizes
A nominal tile name may not equal its measured face. Enter actual dimensions or use the flooring coverage calculator when the product is sold by mosaic-sheet or box coverage.
Pattern and cuts
The formula does not optimize piece placement and does not deduct grout gaps. Use a layout to choose an appropriate allowance.
Purchase units
Round pieces before dividing into boxes. A box count is only meaningful when the entered pieces-per-box matches that product.
Common questions
Tile FAQ
Can I calculate wall tile?
Yes. Use surface width and height in the length and width fields, with openings excluded as appropriate.
Does this calculate grout?
No. Grout depends on joint width, tile thickness, product density, and package yield.
What about mosaic sheets?
Use the flooring calculator with the stated sheet or box coverage when individual tile-face dimensions do not represent the sold coverage.
Evidence
Sources & review
- Pergo — installation guidesUse installation instructions for the particular flooring product.
- NIST — SI units: volumeUnit relationships; supplier product coverage and prices remain separate inputs.
Published by Calcstead. Report a correction.
Method and source links reviewed September 6, 2026. Price presets are editable planning inputs and should be replaced with current local information.