An important step to completing your tile project is to find out how the square footage of the area you want to tile. Whether you’re ready to hire a contractor or ready to make a tile purchase, you’ll be asked this question so let’s help you find out the answer.

Basic Measurement of an Area in Square Feet

To calculate how many square feet you’ll need in tile:

Measure the length and width, using a consistent unit of measurement. We recommend measuring in inches. 

Width” x Length” = Total square area in inches

Total square area in inches / 144 = X total square feet

Simple right? However, most areas are not perfect rectangles. For irregular shaped rooms and spaces such as kitchen backsplashes, measure the square footage by breaking it into smaller measurable rectangles. You’ll then calculate the square footage for each section and add them together. Here’s an example of a backsplash where the wall tile goes around a window.

Step 1: Section the area off into as few rectangles as you can, being sure to cover all tiled surfaces. This example is broken into sections A through F – six sections. 

Tip: It helps to draw out the area on a piece of paper to keep track of all the numbers. 

Step 2: Measure the height and width of each section to get the square footage of all six sections. (Width x height)/144 = Square Foot of Section

Step 3: Add the square footage of all sections together for your total. 

Tip: Your measurements don’t have to be super precise because ultimately you’re going to order about 10-20% more than you need for breakage and installation waste. It is better to err on the side of more tile than less tile – always round up!

How to calculate waste

Every tile project will have some waste because tiles need to be cut and some tiles may break in the process. We recommend a minimum of 10% additional square feet for waste, up to 20% more depending on your tile and project.

Porcelain and ceramics = 10% waste

Natural stone = 10-15% waste as it tends to break during install more easily

Intricate patterns or designs = 15-20%

Irregular shaped rooms = 15%-20% as you’ll have more corners to cut 

Calculate the total amount of tile you need to buy by multiplying the square footage by 1.10 for 10%, 1.15 for 15% and 1.20 for 20%.

There you have it! Bring these numbers in with you as well as a photo of your space and inspiration pictures when you visit our Calgary Tile Store or Edmonton Tile Store. You can also book an appointment to ensure you get one on one dedicated service. Virtual appointments are also available.