BCBuildCalc
BuildCalc Project Guide

Wall & Floor Tiling Quantity Guide

Calculate tiles, adhesive and waste using surface area, tile size, layout and product coverage

In this guide
  1. Surface area
  2. Tile quantity
  3. Pattern and waste
  4. Adhesive
  5. Worked example
  6. Regional/product checks

Surface area

Measure each tiled surface and deduct openings where sensible. Small openings may not reduce purchasing quantity because cuts around them still consume tiles.

Tile quantity

Area divided by tile face area gives a theoretical count. In practice, boxes and waste determine the order quantity.

Pattern and waste

Diagonal, herringbone and complex patterns generally require more cuts than a straight grid. Keep spare matching tiles for future repairs when practical.

Adhesive

Adhesive coverage depends on trowel notch, substrate flatness, tile size and product. Use manufacturer coverage for the selected adhesive.

Worked example

For 18 m² of tile with 10% waste, plan for 19.8 m². If a box covers 1.44 m², 19.8 ÷ 1.44 = 13.75, so order 14 boxes.

Regional/product checks

BuildCalc supports the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and South Africa. The geometry is universal, but terminology, units, pack sizes and common product dimensions differ. Use the dimensions printed on the product you intend to buy rather than assuming a regional default is exact.

Confirm substrate preparation, movement joints, waterproofing and adhesive/grout suitability for the location.

Use the related calculators

Use the calculator for your measurements, then return to this guide to check assumptions, allowances and ordering considerations.

Floor tilesTile adhesive
Important: BuildCalc provides indicative quantity estimates, not structural, regulatory or professional design advice. Check manufacturer data, site conditions and applicable local requirements before ordering or construction.