How to Measure for Floor or Wall Tiles
Learn how to measure tiled areas, calculate tile coverage and allow for cuts and breakage.
Measure each tiled surface
Measure the actual floor or wall area that will receive tile. Exclude permanent areas that will not be tiled.
Convert tile dimensions to area
A 300 mm × 300 mm tile is 0.3 m × 0.3 m, so it covers 0.09 m². Use the product's stated dimensions where possible.
Allow for cutting and breakage
The more complicated the layout, the more important the allowance becomes. Diagonal layouts, patterns and many corners can increase off-cuts.
Keep the same batch when possible
Colour and shade can vary between manufacturing batches. Buying the full planned quantity at once can make matching easier.
Related calculator
Use the Tile Calculator to calculate tile count from the project area and tile size.
Tile measurement checklist
Record the tiled surface dimensions, tile length and width, the layout pattern, the product's box coverage and the allowance recommended by the supplier or installer. For walls, measure the actual height and width of each tiled section rather than using the whole room size.
Plan the layout before ordering
Tile count is not only a mathematical exercise. A layout with a narrow sliver at one edge may require a different starting point or a different cut plan. If the pattern is diagonal, staggered or decorative, expect more cutting than a simple grid.
Box coverage matters
If the manufacturer states coverage in square metres per box, use that figure rather than relying only on the number of tiles in a box. Different tile sizes can produce very different coverage even when the box count looks similar.
Quick FAQ
Should I keep spare tiles?
A small number of matching tiles can be useful for future repairs, particularly when a colour, finish or product line may later be discontinued.
Does grout change the tile quantity?
The calculator estimates tile quantity from tile dimensions and surface area. Grout joint width affects the final layout, so detailed projects should be checked against the installation plan.