Installing a backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom can greatly enhance the look and feel of the space. However, before installing a backsplash, it’s important to calculate the square footage to determine how much tile or other material you will need. With some simple measurements and math, you can easily calculate the backsplash square footage.
Measuring Your Space
The first step in determining backsplash square footage is accurately measuring the area you wish to cover. Here are some tips for measuring:
- Focus on continuous sections – Only measure continuous sections where you plan to install backsplash. For example, if you have a 4 foot section over your stove and a separate 2 foot section on another wall, measure these as separate sections.
- Measure length & height – For each backsplash section, measure the length and height. For height, measure from the countertop or vanity top up to where you want the backsplash to end. Often backsplashes end at the bottom of wall cabinets.
- Write down measurements – Be sure to write down the length and height measurements for each backsplash section. This will make the square footage calculation much easier.
- Use a laser measure – For accuracy, use a laser measuring tool or tape measure. A laser is great for longer distances and awkward angles. Avoid guessing or eyeballing.
Precise measurements are key for calculating the total square footage and purchasing enough backsplash material. Take your time and double check your numbers.
Calculating Square Footage
Once you have accurate length and height measurements for each backsplash section, you can calculate the square footage using this simple formula:
Length x Height = Square Feet
For example, if you have a backsplash section that is 8 feet long and 4 feet high, the calculation would be:
8 feet x 4 feet = 32 square feet
To determine the total square footage, simply add together the square footage of each section. Be sure to keep track of the measurements and calculations for each section.
Here is an example for a kitchen with three separate backsplash sections:
- Section 1 (behind stove): 4 feet long x 4 feet high = 16 square feet
- Section 2 (behind sink): 5 feet long x 4 feet high = 20 square feet
- Section 3 (on side wall): 2 feet long x 4 feet high = 8 square feet
- Total = 16 sq ft + 20 sq ft + 8 sq ft = 44 square feet
Once you have the total square footage amount, you know exactly how much backsplash material to purchase.
Factors That Impact Square Footage
A few factors can slightly impact the total backsplash square footage calculation:
Outlets & switches
If your backsplash area includes any electrical outlets, switches, or fixtures, be sure to subtract these areas from the total square footage. Just estimate the square inch size and convert to square feet.
For example, if you have a 4 inch x 4 inch outlet in your backsplash, that is 16 square inches which equals 0.11 square feet. Subtract 0.11 square feet for each outlet or fixture.
Inside corners
For sections that turn and have an inside corner, you may need to account for the extra surface area needed to wrap the tile. Add a couple extra square feet in cases where multiple inside corners exist.
Pattern match
If using a patterned tile, ensure your total square footage amount allows for cuts that match the pattern. Extend measurements to the nearest full tile to calculate.
Waste factor
Add 10-15% extra for cuts, warped tiles, and waste. Complex patterns and mosaics require even more waste factor.
Ordering Your Backsplash Materials
Use your total square footage amount to determine how much of each material to order. Here are some tips:
- Tile – The square footage calculates how much tile is needed. Order 10-15% extra to allow for waste and pattern matching.
- Adhesive – Consult adhesive packaging for coverage rate based on square footage. Purchase accordingly.
- Grout – Estimate grout needs at 0.25 pounds per square foot. Grout coverage varies by tile size and thickness.
- Backing board – If using backerboard, measure to determine sheets needed based on size. Account for seams and cuts.
- Metal edging – Measure linear feet of countertop edges that will be exposed. Purchase metal edging/trim accordingly.
- Other materials – Calculate needs for sealant, spacers, tools, and any other required backsplash accessories.
Having the exact backsplash square footage makes it easy to order materials. Don’t forget some extras for waste and errors!
Backsplash Square Footage for Common Areas
To give you a general idea of backsplash sizes for typical installations, here are some averages:
- Full kitchen backsplash – 50 to 100 square feet
- Bathroom vanity backsplash – 8 to 16 square feet
- Around a tub/shower – 25 to 40 square feet
- Backsplash small section behind stove – 5 to 15 square feet
- Backsplash behind sink area – 10 to 25 square feet
- Full height backsplash on one wall – 25 to 50 square feet
Of course, each space is unique, so be sure to follow the measuring steps above to get the exact square footage. Plan for more square footage in larger, open concept kitchens and bathrooms.
Tools for Measuring Square Footage
Having the right tools can make measuring and calculating backsplash square footage much simpler:
- Laser distance measurer – Great for accuracy and measuring long distances and heights. Models with laser crosshairs are very helpful.
- Measuring tape – A basic retractable tape measure will also do the trick. Use a metal one for durability.
- Calculator – Use a basic calculator to multiply measurements for square footage. Most phones have a calculator app.
- Pencil & paper – Write down all measurements for each section to keep them organized for math later.
- Square footage calculator apps – Apps like “Measure” for iPhone and iPad automatically calculate square footage.
- Graph paper – Sketch sections on graph paper first to visualize the shapes and help take measurements.
Investing in quality measuring tools helps ensure you calculate square footage accurately.
FAQs About Calculating Backsplash Square Footage
Some frequently asked questions about determining backsplash square footage:
How much extra should I get for waste factor?
It’s recommended to add 10-15% to your total square footage when ordering tiles and materials. Complex patterns and mosaics require even more extra.
My backsplash has multiple outlets. How should I account for these?
Carefully measure the square inch size of each outlet or switch. Convert inches to feet and subtract that amount from your total for each outlet.
What’s the best way to measure height for irregular areas?
Use a laser distance measurer and take multiple height measurements at each end and in the middle. Average them for the most accurate height.
Should I include inside and outside corners in my measurements?
Include the entire area inside your corners for total coverage. Add a couple extra square feet for each inside corner to account for the extra surface area.
How can I estimate linear feet for metal edging strips?
Measure or trace the countertop edges that will be exposed after backsplash installation. Add up the total linear inches and convert to linear feet.
Should I have extra tiles for repairs down the road?
Yes, set aside 5-10% extra tile and store for future repairs. Put tile remnants in labeled baggies to make finding the right one easier later on.
What tools can help me sketch and diagram measurements?
Use graph paper to sketch out the shape and help visualize measurements. You can also find apps that allow you to draw a basic floor plan and take measurements.
Accurately measuring and calculating square footage takes a little time and effort, but it ensures you end up with a beautiful, professional backsplash installation. Taking it step-by-step allows you to determine the precise tile and materials needed. Be sure to use quality measuring tools for the best accuracy. With the total backsplash square footage amount, you can confidently purchase what you need and get started on your project.
Conclusion
Determining backsplash square footage is an important first step for any kitchen or bath project. Carefully measuring each section and using the simple length x height calculation will give you the exact total area that will need to be covered in backsplash tile. Account for outlets, inside corners, and waste factor for the most precise number. Use quality tools to take measurements and make sure to write down each one. Having the total backsplash square footage will tell you how much of each material to purchase, ensuring you don’t come up short. This will lead to a successful installation that completely transforms the space. Just take it step-by-step to end up with stunning new backsplash you’ll love.