How much extra tile should I buy?
15% is a common starting point for rectangular rooms. Complex layouts or large format tile may need 18–20%.
Tile Flooring Calculator
Tile is sold by the box, not the single piece. Enter room dimensions, set waste to 15% for cuts and breakage, and enter sq ft per carton from your tile label for a box count rounded up.
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Default 15%
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Overrides box price when set
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Why tile needs more waste than laminate
Cuts around toilets, door casings, and floor registers consume full tiles that never touch the floor. Breakage during transport and install adds another 2–3%. Default 15% is a solid starting point for rectangular rooms.
Complex layouts, herringbone, or large-format tile may need 18–20%. See how much flooring waste to buy for layout-specific guidance.
Finding sq ft per tile box
Check the carton label first. Or multiply tile length × width in inches, divide by 144 for sq ft per tile, then multiply by pieces per box.
Large-format tiles (12×24 and bigger) cover more area per box but break more easily — handle with care and add extra for the learning curve if this is your first tile job.
Subfloor prep before you order
Tile needs a flat, rigid base — flex causes cracked grout and loose tiles. Read how to prep for tile floor and tile underlayment guide before buying thinset and membrane.
For wall tile and backsplash, enter backsplash length and height as your room dimensions — waste for outlets and niches runs higher than floor tile.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
How do I find sq ft per tile box?
Multiply tile length × width in inches, divide by 144 for sq ft per tile, then multiply by pieces per box. Or use the coverage printed on the box.
Does this work for wall tile?
The math is the same — enter wall length and height as your room dimensions. Consider extra waste for outlets and niches.
Related calculators
Flooring Box Calculator · https://flooringboxcalculator.com/tile-flooring-calculator/