Installing a tile backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom can add visual interest and protect your walls from splashes and stains. But before you start tiling, it’s important to calculate how much tile you’ll need to complete the job. With some simple measurements and math, you can determine the square footage of your backsplash area and purchase the right amount of tile.
Measure the Backsplash Area
The first step in determining how much tile you need is to accurately measure the area you plan to tile. Here are some tips for measuring your backsplash space:
- Clear the area – Remove everything from the backsplash surface so you can get accurate measurements. This includes taking down curtains, light fixtures, existing backsplash tile, etc.
- Measure length and height – Use a tape measure to measure the length and height of the backsplash area. For height, measure from the countertop or vanity to the bottom of the upper cabinets. Record these measurements.
- Calculate square footage – Multiply the length by the height to get the square footage. For example, if the backsplash is 8 feet long and 4 feet high, the area would be 8 x 4 = 32 square feet.
- Make note of any irregular spaces – If the backsplash extends past your main rectangles, take separate measurements of these areas and add them to get the total square footage.
- Remember inside corners – Inside corners where two walls meet will require specialized tile pieces called bullnose tiles. Make sure to account for these.
Accurately measuring and calculating the square footage is crucial for determining how much tile to buy. Don’t guess – take the time to carefully measure.
Factor in Design Elements
In addition to the overall size of your backsplash, the specific design will impact how much tile you need. Here are some things to consider:
- Pattern and orientation – Grid, subway tile, or herringbone patterns may require more cutting and custom pieces. This adds waste. Orienting tile diagonally uses more tile as well.
- Borders or accent tiles – Adding a border or decorative accent tiles increases the amount of tile needed. Calculate this additional tile separately.
- Backsplash height – Extending the backsplash above a standard area will increase the square footage.
- Outlets and switches – Tile around outlets and light switches needs to be cut. This can create a lot of small wasted pieces.
- Inside and outside corners – These require bullnose tiles and sometimes special corner pieces.
- Edges and trim – Small mosaic tiles often have special edge pieces. Larger tiles may need trim like chair rail.
- Niches and shelves – Tiling around niches, soap dishes, shelves etc. requires additional tile.
Take these design factors into consideration when estimating your tile needs. Make sketches to help calculate irregular spaces.
Determine Tile Square Footage
Now that you have the total square footage of your backsplash, you need to know the coverage size of your tile.
- Tile dimensions – Tile is sold either in square feet or by the piece/box. Look at the tile size (in inches) to calculate square feet if needed.
- Mesh-mounted mosaics – Small mosaics mounted on mesh sheets are usually sold by the sheet. Check coverage area per sheet.
- Coverage charts – Tile retailer websites provide charts showing how many pieces cover 1 square foot. Use this for irregular shaped tile.
- Manufacturer specs – Check manufacturer specs for exact dimensions and coverage per piece/box. Don’t guess.
Knowing your tile size and coverage per piece/sheet will allow you to order the correct amount.
Calculate Tile Needed
With your measurements complete, it’s time for the final tile math:
- Total square feet ÷ Tile square feet/coverage = Number of tile needed
For example:
Total Backsplash Area: 32 sq ft
Tile Dimensions: 4″ x 4″ (covers 1 sq ft with 4 tiles)
32 sq ft ÷ 1 sq ft (4 tiles) = 128 tiles needed
Round up for safety if it’s a partial box. It’s better to have extras than to run short!
For mosaics on mesh sheets, simply divide total area by the sq ft coverage per sheet to get the number of sheets needed.
If you have multiple types of tile (field, border, accent), calculate each section separately then add totals.
Order Extra Tile
It’s always smart to order 5-10% extra tile beyond your final calculated amount. Here’s why:
- Waste from cutting – There is always waste from irregular cuts and holes.
- Mistakes and breakage – Accidents happen, especially with irregular cuts or fragile mosaic.
- variation – More tile allows you to mix and match for the most natural look.
- Repairs – Having leftover tile makes it easy to replace a damaged tile later on.
While it may seem unnecessary, spending a little more upfront to get extra tile can save you from a tile shortage nightmare.
Purchase Materials
Use your tile measurements and calculations to create a material list for purchasing everything you need:
Tile
- Field tile
- Accent tile
- Borders
- Bullnose edge tiles
- Inside/outside corner pieces
Tools and Supplies
- Tile saw – For straight cuts
- Nippers – For angled or irregular cuts
- Tile spacers – For consistent grout lines
- Grout float
- Grout sealer
- Mixing buckets
- Notched trowel
- Grout lines
Adhesives and Grout
- Thinset mortar – For adhering tile to surface
- Grout – For filling in seams between tiles
- Sealer – For sealing grout pores
Purchase all materials together to avoid shortages or variances in dye lots. Have everything on hand before you start tiling.
Double Check Your Work
After purchasing materials, remeasure your backsplash area and recheck calculations to confirm you’ve purchased enough.
It’s better to realize you need more tile now rather than when you’re halfway done tiling. Having the right amount from the start ensures an efficient install.
With thoughtful measurements, accurate math, and a well-stocked supply of materials, you’ll be set up for backsplash success.
Tips for Measuring and Calculating Tile
Installing a tile backsplash is a big project. Proper planning, measuring, and purchasing from the start helps ensure your efforts aren’t wasted. Keep these tips in mind:
- Use a laser measure for accuracy – Laser measures account for uneven walls and corners.
- Create a detailed sketch – Mark all dimensions, corners, outlets, etc. Reference this when purchasing.
- Calculate border tile separately – Border tile often requires more cutting and waste.
- Account for pattern direction – Diagonal tile patterns use more material.
- Leave tile in boxes until needed – Keeping tile organized in whole boxes prevents loss or damage.
- Check tile and grout match – Make sure grout color complements your tile design.
- Have 20% extra tile on hand – More inventory means you can cherry pick the best pieces.
- Take pictures before removing existing tile – Useful for recreating the original design and placement.
- Shop sales for bargains on excess tile – You may score leftover bulk orders at a discount.
With careful prep and these measurement tips, you can create a beautiful backsplash design with math-based confidence.
Common Questions about Calculating Tile
Figuring out how much tile is needed for a backsplash often brings up many questions, especially for first-time tilers. Here are some frequently asked questions and helpful answers:
How much tile should I order?
Order 10-15% more tile than your final calculations indicate you need. This provides extras to account for waste, mistakes, or future repairs.
What measurements do I need?
Carefully measure the length, height, and any irregular areas of the backsplash. Also measure tile dimensions to calculate coverage size.
How do I calculate tile for niches or shelves?
Measure the area of any niches or shelves you plan to tile. Calculate this tile separately then add to overall totals.
Should I include extra for pattern matching?
Yes, adding 5-10% extra allows you to pick tiles that blend well into the pattern across uneven walls.
What about future repairs?
Leftover tile is useful for replacing any cracked, damaged, or missing pieces in the future without having to locate the same tile.
Can I return extra unused tile?
Most tile stores will not accept returns on opened boxes. So only buy what you really need plus recommended extras.
How do I calculate border tile?
Measure the linear feet of any borders you plan to install, then determine how many tiles fit in one linear foot based on dimensions.
What measurements are needed for mosaics?
Mosaic sheets list the coverage area per sheet. Measure your area, then divide by mosaic coverage to get sheets needed.
Carefully calculating your tile ensures you don’t find yourself short on materials!
Tiling Tips and Tricks
Installing a backsplash takes careful planning and precision. Avoid rookie tiling mistakes with these pro tips:
Use a tile leveling system
Plastic tile spacers keep grout lines even. Leveling systems like Tuscan Leveling System clips keep each tile at the same height.
Apply thinset correctly
Use the proper trowel notch size, hold at a 45 degree angle, and apply a thin consistent layer.
Check backsplash for plumb and level
Use a level to confirm the surface is plumb and level. Adjust as needed before tiling.
Cut tiles gradually
Don’t nibble away too much tile at once. Slowly cut and test fit until you achieve the perfect custom shape.
Pre-seal porous tiles
Glaze the back and edges of very porous tiles with grout sealer so they don’t absorb moisture and stain.
Clean as you go
Wipe away excess thinset and grout before it dries. This makes final cleanup much easier.
Allow proper cure time
Don’t grout until the thinset mortar has cured for 24-48 hours. This prevents tiles shifting.
Mix grout thoroughly
Use a grout paddle mixer and mix well before applying. Let it slake for 5-10 minutes after mixing.
Grout strategically
Grout in small sections so you don’t rush and can clean before it dries.
Seal grout
After cleaning up excess grout haze, seal the grout lines to protect from stains and moisture.
With the right tools, techniques, and a careful plan, you can achieve a backsplash to be proud of for years to come.
Common Backsplash Tile Materials
Choosing the right tile sets the tone for your whole backsplash design. Consider these popular backsplash tile options:
Ceramic Tile
- Budget-friendly option
- Wide range of colors and styles
- Easy for DIY installation
- Prone to chipping
Porcelain Tile
- Very durable and water-resistant
- Low maintenance and easy to clean
- Minimal grout lines needed
- Large format tiles available
Glass Tile
- Shiny, sleek modern look
- Moisture resistant and easy to clean
- Can be expensive and easily damaged
- Needs specialized cutting tools
Metal Tile
- Bold contemporary look
- Very durable and long-lasting
- Prone to scratches
- Can dent from impact
Mosaic Tile
- Small scale tiles for detail
- Mesh mounted sheets for easy install
- Grout lines prone to staining
- Adds texture and visual interest
Marble or Stone Tile
- Elegant classic look
- Each piece unique in patterning
- Porous and needs sealing
- Relatively heavy
There are so many options for achieving your dream backsplash. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each material as you calculate how much tile is needed.
Backsplash Design Ideas
Once you determine how much tile you need, it’s time to choose an exciting backsplash design. Here are some eye-catching options to fuel your creativity:
Geometric Patterns
Interlocking shapes, diagonal grids, and zigzag designs make for an intriguing modern backsplash. They also increase perceived space.
Moroccan Fish Scale
Replicate the centuries-old mosaic pattern of overlapping tiles pointing outwards like fish scales. It adds rhythm and interest.
Monochromatic Palette
Using all one color, but in an array of finishes like matte, glossy, textured, shimmery. The variation keeps it visually engaging.
Contrasting Stripes
Thin alternating stripes of contrasting colors or finishes energize the space. Pair matte and glossy for maximum effect.
Decorative Border
Frame your backsplash with a contrasting border tile. Arabesque, scallop, diamond, or decorative listello shapes work beautifully.
3D Hexagon Pattern
Interlocking geometric 3D hexagon mosaic brings cool modern dimension and the illusion of curvature to walls.
Mix and Match
Using an artful blend of complementary tiles for texture and visual diversity. Contrast natural stone with sleek metals or vivid glass accents.
With the right amount of properly calculated tile, the only limit is your imagination. Create a one-of-a-kind backsplash that wows.
Avoiding Common Backsplash Mistakes
While backsplashes are relatively easy DIY projects, they are still prone to missteps. Avoid these common pitfalls:
Not accounting for outlets and switches
Always map out their placement and order specialized wall plates to fit your tile design.
Forgetting about plumbing fixtures
Remember that faucets, soap dispensers, etc. will penetrate through the tile. Plan accordingly.
Using the wrong adhesive or grout
Different materials require specific adhesives. Research what’s appropriate for your tile.
Applying tile evenly over uneven walls
Use tile leveling systems and be prepared to make minor adjustments.
Poor planning around inside corners
Prevent cracks by using bullnose tiles or special corner pieces in inside corners.
Allowing grout lines to vary
Use spacers and leveling systems so all grout line spacing remains consistent.
Not sealing grout
Unsealed grout absorbs stains and moisture. Seal it for longevity and maintenance ease.
Missing the backsplash niche opportunity
This is the perfect time to create handy niches for storing kitchen items or bath accessories!
With careful prep and attention to detail, you can avoid the most common pitfalls of tiling.
Conclusion
Installing a tile backsplash enhances any space with visual appeal, while protecting your walls from inevitable splashes and stains. By taking careful measurements, doing the tile math, and using leveling best practices, you can achieve a successful DIY backsplash project. Give your kitchen or bath an ideal balance of form and function with a well-executed tile design.