Before purchasing wall tiles, it is worth calculating the amount of material needed accurately to avoid both shortages and excess. There are various calculation methods. In this article, we suggest how to easily and precisely calculate the required number of tiles, taking into account a small reserve for cuts and possible losses during installation.
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Step 1 - Accurate measurements of the wall
The first step is to accurately measure the wall where you intend to lay the tiles. It is best to use a tape measure to ensure precision. Measure the height and width of the wall, then multiply both values. You will get the total area in square meters. Remember to subtract large sections that will not be covered with tiles, such as door and window openings or areas you plan to finish in another way. There is also another school of thought that suggests not subtracting the area of windows and doors. The excess material will be useful for cuts and will serve as a reserve in case of damage during installation or use. Any recesses to be covered with tiles should be measured separately and added to the total area.
Example: 2.6 m x 3.0 m = 7.8 m²
Step 2 - Calculating the area of one tile
Assuming you have already chosen wall tiles in the store. Check the dimensions of a single piece, provided by the manufacturer in centimeters. Convert the values to meters and calculate the area of one tile. The obtained value will be used in the next step to calculate the total number of tiles needed for the wall. Grouting, in principle, does not change the number of tiles needed. However, with wide joints and large areas, it is worth consulting the need for adjustment with a professional.
Example: 30 cm x 60 cm = 0.3 m x 0.6 m = 0.18 m²
Step 3 – Estimating the necessary reserve
It is always worth including a reserve for cuts and possible losses that may occur during the installation of wall tiles. For a standard layout, it is recommended to add about 10% reserve to the required number of tiles, and in the case of laying tiles in a complicated pattern - even 15%. In principle, the larger the area to be covered and the simpler the layout, the less reserve for losses and cuts you need (the minimum for large rooms with a standard layout is 3%). Are you wondering why to buy excess material when you can always run to the store? It is better not to risk running out of stock or the withdrawal of a given tile model from sale. It is worth having at least a little spare material on hand.
Example: 50 pcs. + 10% = 55-58 tiles (including reserve)
Step 4 - Calculating the number of tiles needed for the wall
To quickly and easily calculate the minimum (!) number of tiles needed for the wall, divide the area of the ![NORTHWOOD BEIGE floor tile 198x1198x8mm, structure, wood-inspired, matte, rectified, grade I, abrasion class: PEI4, slip resistance class: R10b, [package=1.19m2=5 pcs.] NT1053-002-1](https://onninen.pl/lib/images/25366446.jpg)
wall by the area of a single tile. The result is rounded up. Then, you need to add the necessary reserve for losses and cuts to the obtained value. Using this simple method will save you time, money, and often a lot of stress. When calculating the reserve, follow the tips provided in the paragraph above.
Example:
(7.8 m² / 0.18 m²) + 10% = 43.33
44 (rounded up) + 10% (reserve) = 48 pieces
Gres and terracotta tiles at Onninen building warehouse
Are you looking for a wide selection and high-quality wall, floor, or terrace tiles? The Onninen building and tool warehouse offers a rich assortment of finishing materials that will be suitable for the most demanding projects. We offer, among others, tiles made of gres - with excellent resistance to damage and weather conditions, ideal for both interiors and the exteriors of buildings.
Do you have questions? Do you need help choosing terracotta/gres tiles? Take advantage of the advice from our specialists!
FAQ
1. How to measure walls for tiles?
Measure the height and width of each wall, preferably in several places, to account for any irregularities. Multiply the largest dimensions by each other. You will get the area in square meters. Subtract the area of windows and doors from the result (some skip this step and treat these sections as natural reserves). Finally, add about 10% reserve for possible losses and cuts.
2. Will adding 10% reserve to the calculated number of tiles be sufficient?
10% is the recommended reserve for a standard layout of wall tiles. In the case of more complicated layouts, such as squares or herringbone, the reserve should be 15%.
3. How to calculate the required number of tiles when the wall has irregular shapes?
Divide the wall into rectangles, triangles, and other simple shapes. Calculate their areas separately and sum them up. Do not subtract the area of windows and doors (the exception is large windows). Divide the result by the area of one tile. Add 10–20% reserve depending on the complexity of the layout.
4. Do online tile calculators provide accurate results?
Online calculators available on the websites of tile manufacturers and distributors are relatively accurate but not infallible. They should be treated as auxiliary tools, not as substitutes for professional calculations. If you want to be sure that the number of tiles will be calculated precisely — especially in the case of unusual rooms, large formats, or complicated layouts, it is worth using the services of a renovation company or an architect or interior designer.
5. Gres or terracotta - which is better for walls?
Terracotta tiles generally perform better on walls, as they have a warm, decorative character. Due to their low absorbency, high durability, and smooth surface, they are excellent for finishing walls in bathrooms and kitchens. On the other hand, hard and durable gres tiles are more often found on floors.