Tile Calculator

Calculate how many tiles, adhesive, and grout you need. Choose your tile size, layout pattern, and wastage percentage.

Running out of tiles mid-job is the quickest way to derail a bathroom or kitchen project — especially if the batch you bought is no longer available. This calculator works out exactly how many tiles you need based on the area, tile size, and your chosen layout pattern, plus the adhesive and grout to go with them.

The layout pattern makes a noticeable difference to quantities. A standard grid pattern wastes the least material, while a diagonal or herringbone layout can increase wastage to 15% or more because of the extra cuts at the edges. Larger format tiles cover the area faster but are less forgiving with uneven walls or floors.

The Tile Association estimates that over 250 million square metres of tiles are sold in the UK each year, with porcelain now accounting for more than half of all sales (TTA). Ordering the right quantity first time avoids delays, colour-matching issues, and unnecessary trips to the merchant.

How this calculator works

  1. Enter the room length and width (or total area), then select your tile size and layout pattern.
  2. Set your wastage percentage — 10% is standard, 15% for diagonal layouts.
  3. The tool calculates the number of tiles, bags of adhesive, and packs of grout you need to buy.

Written by the CalcStack team · Last updated April 2026

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Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate how many tiles I need?▾
Divide the total area (in m2) by the area of one tile (in m2). For example, for a 10m2 room with 600x300mm tiles (0.18m2 each), you need 10/0.18 = 56 tiles. Then add wastage.
How much wastage should I allow for tiles?▾
Allow 10% for grid/straight lay patterns, 15% for brick bond/offset patterns, and 20-25% for herringbone or diagonal patterns. More complex room shapes also need more wastage for cuts.
How much tile adhesive do I need?▾
Typically 3-5 kg per m2 depending on tile size and substrate. Larger tiles need more adhesive (often back-buttered). Budget around 4 kg/m2 for standard floor tiling.
How much grout do I need?▾
Approximately 1-2 kg per m2 depending on tile size and joint width. Smaller tiles with wider joints need more grout. Budget around 1.5 kg/m2 for standard installations.
What tile size is best for a small room?▾
Larger tiles (600x600 or 600x300mm) can make small rooms look bigger as there are fewer grout lines. However, they may need more cuts. 300x300mm is versatile and easier to handle.
What is brick bond tiling?▾
Brick bond (or running bond) means each row of tiles is offset by half a tile, like a brick wall. It creates a classic look and disguises slight tile size variations, but produces more wastage than grid layout.
What is herringbone pattern?▾
Herringbone is a V-shaped zigzag pattern where rectangular tiles are laid at 45-degree angles. It is visually striking but requires the most cutting and has the highest wastage (15-25%).
Do I need to seal my tiles?▾
Porcelain tiles are generally non-porous and do not need sealing. Natural stone (marble, slate, limestone) and unglazed ceramic tiles should be sealed before grouting to prevent staining.
How long should I wait before grouting?▾
Wait at least 24 hours after tiling before grouting. The adhesive needs to set fully. In cold or damp conditions, allow 48 hours. Follow the adhesive manufacturer instructions.
Should I order extra tiles?▾
Yes, always order extra beyond your wastage calculation. Keep spare tiles for future repairs. The same tile may be discontinued or have batch colour variations if you order later.

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© 2026 CalcStack — a Flavoureak UK Ltd product. Quantities are estimates — always verify with your tiler.