Tile Calculator

How to use the Tile Calculator

1. Enter the area to be tiled — wall height and width, or floor length and width.
2. Select the tile size and the grout joint width.
3. Choose the layout pattern — straight, brick bond, or diagonal.
4. Review tile count, adhesive quantity, and grout needed, including a wastage allowance.

Why use this tool

• Applies the correct wastage percentage for each layout pattern — diagonal cuts produce more waste.
• Calculates adhesive coverage based on trowel notch size and substrate type.
• Includes grout quantity so you can order everything in one trip to the tile supplier.

Tile wastage varies significantly depending on the layout pattern. A straight layout typically wastes 5-10%, a brick bond pattern 10-15%, and a diagonal layout 15-20% because of the angled cuts at the edges. This calculator applies the appropriate wastage factor and rounds up to whole boxes. Adhesive coverage depends on the trowel notch size — larger tiles need a bigger notch, which uses more adhesive per square metre. Grout quantity depends on the tile size, grout joint width, and tile thickness. Getting these calculations right means one trip to the tile shop instead of three.

Part of Builder Tools Calculators — construction tools for UK tradespeople.