Measure Twice, Order Once

Tiling a floor or a backsplash is one of the most satisfying DIY projects, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you run out of tiles mid-way through. Tiles are made in "batches" or "lots," and even the same color can vary slightly between batches.

Step 1: Calculate the Area

Measure the length and width of the space in feet. Multiply them together to get the total square footage. If your room is L-shaped, divide it into two rectangles and add them together.

Step 2: The Importance of the 'Waste Factor'

You will inevitably break some tiles while cutting them for corners, outlets, or edges. You should always order 10-15% more material than your square footage suggests.

• 10% Waste: For standard square or rectangular patterns.
• 15-20% Waste: For diagonal, herringbone, or complex patterns.

Step 3: Boxes vs. Individual Tiles

Most retailers sell tiles in boxes. Once you know how many individual tiles you need, divide that by the number of tiles per box and always round up to the nearest whole box.

Pro Tip: Keep an Extra Box

Even after your project is done, keep one extra box in your attic or basement. If a tile cracks years from now (perhaps after a heavy object falls), you'll have a perfect color match ready for repair.

Calculate your project needs accurately with our Tile Calculator.