Tile Calculator

For standard straight-lay installations in rectangular rooms, add 10% waste for cuts, breakage, and future repairs. Diagonal (45°) patterns need 15% extra due to more edge cuts. Herringbone or chevron patterns require 15-20% extra. Small rooms with many cuts around fixtures need higher waste allowance. Large format tiles (60cm+/24"+) break more easily and benefit from 15% buffer. Always keep leftover tiles for future repairs.

For L-shaped or irregular rooms, divide the space into rectangles and calculate each separately. Measure the longest length and width of each section. Add 15% waste instead of 10% for irregular rooms due to additional cuts. For curved areas or rooms with many obstacles, add 20% waste. Create a scale drawing and count partial tiles as full tiles to ensure adequate coverage for your project.

Medium-sized tiles 30×30cm to 30×60cm (12"×12" to 12"×24") work best for small bathrooms—fewer grout lines make spaces appear larger. Large format 60×60cm (24"×24") tiles work but need more cuts. Small mosaics create busy patterns that can make rooms feel smaller, but they're excellent for shower floors needing drainage slope. For walls, larger tiles reduce visual clutter and grout maintenance.

Ceramic tile prices vary globally: USA $1-15/sq ft; UK £15-80/m²; EU €15-100/m²; Australia A$25-150/m²; India ₹30-200/sq ft. Porcelain costs 20-50% more than ceramic. Natural stone (marble, slate) costs 2-5× more. Prices depend on quality, finish, and brand. Budget tiles start around $1/sq ft while designer tiles can exceed $50/sq ft. Always factor in adhesive, grout, and installation costs.

Common conversions: 12"×12" = 30×30cm, 18"×18" = 45×45cm, 24"×24" = 60×60cm, 12"×24" = 30×60cm, 3"×6" (subway) = 7.5×15cm. Note that metric tiles are often slightly different—a "30cm" tile is actually 298mm to allow for grout joints. This calculator handles conversions automatically. When ordering, confirm actual tile dimensions with supplier as stated sizes are nominal, not exact measurements.

Yes, floor tiles must be rated for floor use with adequate slip resistance (look for PEI rating 3+ or R-rating). Wall tiles are thinner and may crack under foot traffic. Porcelain tiles work for both floors and walls. For wet areas like showers, use tiles with slip-resistant finish. Outdoor tiles need frost resistance in cold climates. Always check manufacturer specifications for intended use before purchasing.