Calculating tile needs for a backsplash requires more than multiplying area by tile size; factors like layout, pattern, cuts, and damaged pieces all affect the final amount. This guide explains how to measure, add appropriate waste allowances for different tile types, and make cost-smart ordering decisions. It also covers practical tips for ordering, storing, and returning tiles so installations proceed smoothly with minimal delays.
| Tile Type | Recommended Waste Allowance | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Subway/Rectangular (straight set) | 5%–7% | Few complex cuts; grout joints predictable |
| Mosaic Sheets (small tiles) | 7%–10% | More cuts and pattern matching on edges |
| Large Format Tiles (12×24+) | 10%–15% | More cutting waste and breakage; visible seams |
| Diagonal Or Herringbone Patterns | 15%–20% | Complex cutting and fitting create more waste |
| Natural Stone/Handmade Tile | 15%–25% | Variation in color/size; avoid batch mismatches |
How To Measure A Backsplash Area
Accurate measurement is the first step. Measure the width of the backsplash wall(s) and the desired height from countertop to underside of cabinets or to ceiling. Multiply width by height for simple rectangular sections and add separate sections for windows, outlets, or islands.
Need Flooring Help? Call 877-761-0420 for Local Quotes
Measure twice, record dimensions in inches and feet, and convert to square feet by dividing total square inches by 144, or multiply feet directly to get square feet.
Accounting For Cutouts And Obstacles
Measure each cutout (outlets, windows, pipes) and subtract that area from the total if the cutouts are large. Small electrical boxes and switches are typically left in the calculation because tile must be cut around them, which produces extra waste.
How To Convert Measurements To Number Of Tiles
Determine the square footage of one tile (length x width) and divide the backsplash square footage by tile square footage. For mosaic sheets, use sheet dimensions instead of individual tile size. Always round up to the nearest whole tile or sheet.
Example: A 6″x6″ tile equals 0.25 sq ft. A 20 sq ft backsplash will need 80 tiles before waste is applied (20 ÷ 0.25 = 80).
Recommended Waste Allowances By Tile Type
Different tile materials and layouts demand different waste percentages. Choose the allowance based on tile size, pattern complexity, and material variability. Using an inappropriate waste factor leads to underordering or excessive leftover stock.
Use these common guidelines: 5%–7% for standard subway tiles, 7%–10% for mosaics, 10%–15% for large-format tiles, 15%–20% for complex patterns, and 15%–25% for natural stone or handmade tiles.
Need Flooring Help? Call 877-761-0420 for Local Quotes
Why Pattern And Layout Affect Waste
Diagonal, herringbone, basketweave, and offset patterns require more cuts at edges and corners. These patterns often generate offcuts that can’t be reused, increasing waste significantly. Planning the layout to minimize edge cuts reduces the amount of extra tile needed.
Tip: Mock up the layout on paper or with tile layout software to see where cuts occur and estimate waste visually before ordering.
Large Format Tile Considerations
Large-format tiles (12″x24″ and larger) are more difficult to cut and handle. They may break during cutting or transport and require larger grout joints to accommodate substrate irregularities, increasing the likelihood of visible mismatches if tiles from different boxes are used.
Recommendation: Order an additional 10%–15% for large-format tiles and ensure all tiles come from the same production lot to minimize shade variation.
Natural Stone And Handmade Tile Factors
Natural stone and handcrafted tiles vary in color, size, and thickness. To ensure a consistent look, purchase all tile from the same batch. Extra tiles are also helpful for future repairs since matching later batches may be impossible.
For natural stone or handmade tiles, add 15%–25% waste and buy extra for future repairs or replacements.
Small Tile And Mosaic Sheet Tips
Mosaic sheets reduce installer time but create waste when sheets are trimmed to fit around outlets and corners. Because of frequent small cuts, a larger percentage of waste should be expected compared to larger tiles.
Recommended allowance for mosaics is 7%–10%, and keep a few extra sheets for replacements due to grout staining or breakage during installation.
Need Flooring Help? Call 877-761-0420 for Local Quotes
How To Calculate Final Order Quantity
Step 1: Measure total backsplash area in square feet. Step 2: Determine tile coverage per tile or per sheet. Step 3: Divide area by coverage to find required tiles. Step 4: Multiply required tiles by (1 + waste percentage).
Example Calculation: 20 sq ft area, 6″x6″ tiles (0.25 sq ft each), require 80 tiles. With 10% waste: 80 x 1.10 = 88 tiles. Order 88 tiles (round up to full boxes as needed).
Boxes, Pallets, And How Suppliers Sell Tile
Tiles are sold by the box or pallet, with each box containing a set number of tiles or square feet. Calculate how many boxes are needed after adding waste and always round up to whole boxes. Buying partial boxes is rarely possible from retailers.
Practical step: Check the square footage per box and order whole boxes to meet or slightly exceed the final rounded tile count.
Matching Batches And Shade Variation
Tile manufacturers produce multiple batches (lots) with slight color or texture variations. For visible areas like backsplashes, ensure all tiles come from the same production lot to minimize shade differences.
Ask the retailer to confirm lot numbers and, when possible, request tiles from a single lot or order extra boxes from the same run.
Ordering Extra For Future Repairs
Keep a small stash of tiles for future repairs. For high-variation tiles, store an extra 5%–10% beyond installation waste in case additional repairs are needed down the road.
Label boxes with project details, date, and lot number, and store in a dry place to prevent damage or moisture exposure.
What To Do If Short On Tile During Installation
If short on tiles during installation, stop and order more from the same lot if possible. Cutting corners by mixing lots often leads to visible color shifts. Avoid improvising with mismatched tile unless the design intentionally blends variations.
If the same lot isn’t available, ask the supplier for tiles with a close match and request a small sample to compare in the actual lighting.
Cost Implications Of Ordering Extra Tile
Ordering extra raises upfront costs but reduces the risk of delays, mismatched batches, and the need for emergency shipments. For premium, natural, or discontinued tiles, extra ordering is often the cheaper long-term choice.
Calculate the cost of extra tile versus potential re-ordering or repair costs to decide the most economical waste allowance for the project.
Returns, Restocking Fees, And Store Policies
Many retailers accept unopened, undamaged boxes for return but may charge restocking fees. Understand the store’s return window and conditions before finalizing the purchase so excess tile can be returned if unused.
Keep packaging intact and save receipts and lot numbers to simplify returns.
Storing Leftover Tile Properly
Store leftover tiles in their original boxes, labeled, and stacked flat in a dry, temperature-stable area. Protect tiles from freezing temperatures to avoid damage to certain ceramics or natural stone.
Proper storage preserves tiles for future repairs and increases the resale or returnability of unused boxes.
Practical Checklist For Ordering Backsplash Tile
- Measure Carefully: Record width and height of all sections and cutouts.
- Choose Tile Type And Layout: Decide straight set, herringbone, or diagonal before calculating waste.
- Calculate Coverage: Convert tile size to square footage per tile or sheet.
- Apply Waste Percentage: Use recommended allowance for the tile and pattern.
- Round Up To Boxes: Order whole boxes and confirm lot numbers.
- Order Extra For Repairs: Keep boxed extras labeled and stored.
- Check Return Policy: Verify restocking fees and return windows.
Common Questions About Backsplash Tile Quantities
How Much Extra Tile Should Be Ordered For A Small Kitchen Backsplash?
For small kitchens with standard subway tiles and a simple layout, 5%–7% extra is usually sufficient. If the backsplash has many outlets or corners, increase to 7%–10%.
Is It Better To Order More Than Needed Or Just Enough Tiles?
Ordering slightly more than needed reduces risk of running out and encountering lot mismatches during re-orders. For most projects, ordering an extra 5%–15% depending on tile type and pattern is a prudent choice.
What If The Tile Is Discontinued Later?
If a tile is discontinued, matching later is difficult or impossible. Store an extra 10%–15% beyond installation need for stone or unique tiles to cover future repairs or replacements.
Resources And Tools To Help With Measurements
Use online tile calculators from reputable suppliers, tile layout software, or spreadsheet templates to cross-check manual measurements. Bring photos and sample tiles to the installer or supplier to discuss waste allowances and layout for better accuracy.
Most major tile retailers provide coverage per box and waste calculators online to validate manual calculations.
Final Ordering Tips
Confirm lot numbers, order all needed tiles at once when possible, and keep vendor contacts handy for re-orders. Communicate layout preferences with the installer to reduce unnecessary cuts and waste.
When in doubt, order a little more; the cost of a few extra tiles is typically less than the time, shipping, and aesthetic costs of scrambling for a matching batch mid-project.