Tile Calculator
Tiles, thinset, and grout with the right waste factor for your layout. Updated for 2026.
Last reviewed July 2026 · Free · Nothing you enter is stored
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Planning estimate using standard formulas and 2026 national average prices — confirm quantities with your supplier and get local quotes.
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How this calculator works
Tile count = area × pieces per sq ft × (1 + waste). Thinset coverage averages 85 sq ft per 50 lb bag with a 1/4" notch trowel (less for large-format with back-buttering). Grout runs 100–200 sq ft per 25 lb bag depending on tile size and joint width — small tiles use far more grout per square foot.
Frequently asked questions
How much extra tile should I buy?
10% for straight layouts, 15% for diagonal or large-format, 20% for herringbone and complex patterns — plus keep a box in the attic for repairs, since dye lots vary between production runs.
How many square feet does a bag of thinset cover?
A 50 lb bag covers roughly 75–95 sq ft with a 1/4" square-notch trowel. Large-format tile (any side over 15") needs a bigger trowel and back-buttering, cutting coverage nearly in half.
How much does tiling cost in 2026?
Material: ceramic $1–$15/sq ft, porcelain $2–$15, natural stone $5–$35. Professional installation adds $5–$15/sq ft for straightforward floors — more for showers, patterns, and prep work.
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