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How the tile estimate works
The calculator multiplies the surface dimensions, adds the selected waste, then rounds both tiles and boxes up to whole units.
Formula
Required area = length × width × surface quantity × (1 + waste %). Boxes = required area ÷ coverage per box, rounded up.
Worked example
A 4 × 3 m floor is 12 m². With 10% waste it needs 13.2 m². If one box covers 1.44 m², you need 10 boxes covering 14.4 m².
Choosing a waste percentage
- 5%: simple room, straight layout and large reusable cuts.
- 10%: common starting point for most straight layouts.
- 15%: diagonal patterns, many corners or fragile material.
- Add more when matching veins, batches or complex patterns.
FAQ
Tile calculator FAQ
Should I calculate boxes or individual tiles?
Buy using full boxes. The tile count is useful for checking the estimate, but box coverage controls the purchase quantity.
Does grout joint width change the result?
It changes layout spacing more than purchase area. This calculator uses box coverage, which is the safer value for buying material.
Can I combine several equal walls?
Yes. Enter one wall size and increase equal surfaces. For different sizes, calculate each group separately and combine the required area.
This is a planning estimate. Confirm box coverage, batch availability, pattern direction and installer allowance before ordering.
About this material
Ceramic and porcelain tileCeramic against porcelain, the ratings that matter underfoot, and why the box coverage beats the tile size.