Installing a backsplash in your kitchen can add visual interest and protect your walls from splashes and spills. When planning a backsplash project, one of the most important calculations you’ll need to make is determining how much tile you need to purchase. This requires calculating the square footage of the backsplash area. With some simple measurements and math, you can easily figure out the tile square footage for your backsplash.
Measuring the Backsplash Area
The first step is to measure the area where you plan to install the backsplash tile. Here’s how to do it:
- Measure the length and height of the backsplash area. Use a tape measure to measure the length and height of the area, including any spaces around windows or appliances. Measure in inches.
- Multiply the length times the height. This will give you the square footage of the backsplash area. For example, if the backsplash is 36 inches long and 48 inches tall, 36 x 48 = 1,728 square inches.
- Convert to square feet if needed. There are 144 square inches in a square foot. To convert square inches to square feet, divide the total square inches by 144. In our example, 1,728 square inches ÷ 144 = 12 square feet.
Tips for Measuring:
- Measure from the lowest to the highest point for the height.
- Include any space behind appliances or around windows.
- For irregularly shaped areas, break the area into rectangles and triangles to calculate.
- Round up to the nearest quarter or half foot for a little extra tile.
Calculating How Much Tile You Need
Once you know the square footage of the backsplash area, you can determine how much tile is needed:
- Check the tile size. Tile is sold in different sizes like 1-inch mosaics, 4×4 inches, 6×6 inches. This info is needed for the calculations.
- Divide the area square footage by the tile square inches. For a 12 square foot backsplash using 4×4 inch tiles, each tile is 16 square inches (4 x 4). So 12 sq ft backsplash / 16 sq in per tile = 75 tiles needed.
- Add 5-10% extra for cuts and waste. No backsplash is perfectly rectangular, so you’ll need extra tiles. For a 75 tile project, add 8-15 tiles as extras.
Tile Calculation Formula:
(Backsplash Square Footage ÷ Tile Square Inches) x (1.05 to 1.10) = Number of Tiles
Other Tips for Calculating Tile Needs
- Use a tile calculator – There are simple online tile calculators that you can input measurements into to determine tile needs.
- Make a grid layout – Map out the backsplash area with grid paper first to visualize tile layout. This can help estimate needs.
- Calculate thinset/grout – Estimate 1 bag of thinset for every 50 sq ft and grout for every 75 sq ft.
- Don’t forget edging – Calculate linear feet of any borders or edging pieces needed.
DIY Backsplash Tiling Tips
Installing a tile backsplash is an achievable DIY project for most homeowners. Here are some tips:
- Carefully prepare the surface – Clean and sand the area, apply adhesive mesh if needed.
- Use a level and temporary supports to get the first row straight.
- Mix thinset well and apply evenly. Let it get tacky before applying tile.
- Use spacers between tiles for consistent grout lines. Remove once tiles set.
- Grout using a rubber grout float. Wipe diagonally across grout lines.
- Seal grout after drying for water protection.
- Caulk perimeter edges with a flexible sealant when finished.
With the right planning and preparation, you can calculate how much tile is needed for your backsplash project and create a stunning focal point in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calculate square feet for a backsplash?
Measure the length and height of the backsplash area in inches, multiply them to get square inches, then divide by 144 to convert to square feet. Include any space behind appliances or outlets.
What size tile is best for a backsplash?
4×4 inch, 6×6 inch and subway tiles are common backsplash sizes. Larger tiles are faster to install while smaller mosaic tiles create intricate patterns.
How much tile should I buy for my backsplash?
Take the backsplash square footage, divide by the tile square inch size, then add 5-10% extra for waste and cuts. An online tile calculator can help estimate needs.
Can I install a backsplash myself?
Yes, with the right preparation and materials, installing a tile backsplash is totally DIY friendly. Watch tutorials to learn proper techniques for best results.
What tools do I need to install backsplash tile?
Basic tiling tools include a tile cutter, spacers, grout float, sponges, buckets, tape measure, level, adhesive trowel, and mixing paddle. A wet saw helps make tricky cuts.
Conclusion
Calculating how much tile you need for a kitchen backsplash involves measuring the area, determining the tile size, and doing some simple math. Measure square footage, divide by tile square inches, and add extra for waste when estimating needs. With a tile quantity estimate, some essential tools, and tile laying techniques, you can tackle a DIY backsplash project with beautiful results.