How Much Tile Do I Need for a Bathroom?

Measure each tile area in square feet, add the areas together, then add at least 10% waste for cuts and breakage. Small bathrooms often need more waste because cuts take a larger share of the layout.

Bathroom tile estimate steps

  1. Measure the floor, shower wall, or backsplash area separately.
  2. Multiply length by width for each rectangle.
  3. Subtract large openings only when they materially change the estimate.
  4. Add 10% to 15% waste for cuts and breakage.
  5. Divide by the box coverage or tile area and round up.

Bathroom-specific waste notes

Bathrooms often have toilets, vanities, niches, drains, and tight corners. These obstacles can increase cuts, so a slightly higher waste factor is usually safer.

Use the calculator

For a project-specific estimate, enter your measurements in the Tile Calculator.

Frequently asked questions

Should shower tile and floor tile be calculated together?

Calculate them separately when the tile size, pattern, or waste factor differs.

Does grout spacing reduce tile quantity?

Grout spacing has a small effect on many projects. Waste percentage usually matters more for ordering.