Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or any other space in your home, accurately calculating the square footage of the area you want to tile is critical to ensure you have enough materials and stay within budget. In this article, we will walk you through the process of calculating square footage for tiles.

1. Measure the Area:

Begin by measuring the length and width of the area where you want to install the tiles. Be sure to measure every corner and section, especially if the room is irregularly shaped. Use a tape measure or a laser distance measurer for accurate measurements, and note down your numbers in inches.

2. Calculate Total Square Footage:

Once you have recorded the length and width, multiply them together to get the total area:

Area (in square inches) = Length (in inches) x Width (in inches)

Now convert your result from square inches to square feet:

Area (in square feet) = Area (in square inches) / 144

3. Account for Waste and Extra Tiles:

When ordering tiles, it’s essential to account for potential waste due to cutting or breakage during installation. As a general rule of thumb, add 10%-15% extra tile to account for waste:

Total Tiles Needed (in square feet) = Area (in square feet) x [1 + Waste percentage]

4. Determine Tile Size:

Your choice of tile size will affect the number of tiles required for your space. Tile sizes can range from small mosaic tiles measuring around 0.5 sq ft per piece to larger tiles up to around 3 sq ft per piece. To determine how many tiles you need for your project:

Number of Tiles = Total Tiles Needed (in square feet) / Tile Size (in square feet)

5. Round Up:

Always round up when determining the number of tiles required for your project as partial tiles won’t cover the necessary area. It’s also a good idea to have some extra tiles on hand in case any get damaged after installation.

6. Calculate Grout and Other Material Needs:

To estimate grout, spacers, and adhesive, factor in their specific requirements as advised by the product manufacturer. Additionally, account for any edge or corner pieces required when ordering your materials.

By diligently following these steps, you’ll be able to accurately calculate the square footage and number of tiles needed for your tiling project. With proper planning, you’ll keep costs under control and ultimately achieve a beautifully tiled space.