Installing a backsplash in your kitchen can greatly enhance the look and feel of the space. But before installing, it’s important to determine how much backsplash material you’ll need. Finding the square footage of your backsplash area is easy with some simple calculations.
Measure the Perimeter of the Backsplash Area
The first step is to measure the perimeter of the area you plan to install the backsplash.
You’ll need to measure:
- The length of the countertops that will have backsplash.
- The height of the backsplash area. Standard backsplash height is 4 inches, but this can vary.
- The length of any windows, appliances like range hoods, or other discontinuities in the backsplash area.
Make sure to write down all the measurements. Then add them all together to get the total perimeter length.
Here is an example:
- Countertop section 1: 9 ft
- Countertop section 2: 5 ft
- Countertop section 3: 7 ft
- Standard backsplash height: 4 in
- Window in backsplash area: 3 ft
Total perimeter length = 9 ft + 5 ft + 7 ft + 4 in + 3 ft = 24 ft 4 in
Multiply the Perimeter Length by the Backsplash Height
Now that you have the total perimeter length, take that number and multiply it by the height of the backsplash. This gives you the total square footage of the backsplash installation area.
Using our example:
Perimeter length: 24 ft 4 in
Backsplash height: 4 in
24 ft 4 in x 4 in = 98 sq ft
So for this sample kitchen, the total backsplash installation area is 98 square feet.
Account for Any Outlets or Obstacles
If there are any outlets, switches, or obstacles like soap dispensers in your backsplash area, make sure to add in their square footage as well.
For example, if you have two electrical outlets in the backsplash space that are each 4 inches by 2 inches, you would add:
2 outlets x 4 in x 2 in = 16 sq in
16 sq in = 1.1 sq ft
So the total square footage would be 98 sq ft + 1.1 sq ft = 99.1 sq ft
Ordering Materials
Once you know the total square footage needed, you can determine how much backsplash material to purchase. Most backsplash tiles come in standard square footages per box.
Add about 10% extra to account for broken tiles and cuts.
For our example of 99.1 sq ft, you would want to purchase about 110 sq ft of backsplash tile.
Knowing the exact square footage of your backsplash area is crucial for ordering the right amount of materials. With these simple calculations, you’ll be ready to find and purchase the perfect backsplash tiles for your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring Backsplash Square Footage
How do I calculate square feet for a backsplash with an irregular shape?
For backsplashes that aren’t simple rectangles, divide the space into smaller rectangles and triangles to get the square footage of each section. Add them up for the total. You can also use graph paper to sketch the shape and count squares.
What if my backsplash height varies in different areas?
If the backsplash height changes in certain spots, make sure to measure and calculate each section separately based on the height in that area. Then add together for the total.
How do I account for outlets or windows that are only partly in the backsplash area?
Measure the height and length of the portion of the outlet or window that intersects the backsplash area. Multiply only that section’s height and length instead of the entire fixture’s dimensions.
Should I include my backsplash going up the wall behind my stove?
Yes, be sure to take measurements of any backsplash areas behind appliances. The entire perimeter with backsplash should be included in your calculations.
What’s the best way to measure for backsplashes on angled walls?
Use a protractor to determine the angles and a tape measure to find the length along the edges. Divide angled sections into smaller triangles and rectangles to find the square footage of each.
How can I estimate square footage without taking all the measurements first?
If you know the overall countertop dimensions, assume 4 inch standard backsplash height, and approximate deductions for appliances/windows, you can do a quick preliminary estimate before fully measuring.
Conclusion
Finding the square footage of backsplash needed for your kitchen or bath takes a little bit of math, but it’s an essential step. Accurately measuring the perimeter length and height and multiplying those together gives the total backsplash area. Be sure to also account for any outlets, windows, or obstacles when calculating. Measure carefully and use our steps to easily determine how much backsplash material to purchase for your next kitchen or bath project.