How Many Boxes of Tile Calculator

Find out how many boxes of tile to purchase. Enter your area and either the tiles per box or the square footage per box — the calculator handles both methods.

Enter your measurements

Area to cover*

sq ft

Tile width*

Tile height*

Grout joint width

Waste factor

Box size specified as

Choose how your box size is listed on the packaging.

Box size*

Enter tiles per box or sq ft per box depending on your selection above.

■ RESULT

Boxes to buy

9 boxes

Total tiles needed108 tiles

Total area (with waste)110 sq ft

Waste factor10 %

Formula: boxes = ⌈(tiles needed with waste) ÷ (tiles per box)⌉ or ⌈(area × (1 + waste)) ÷ (sq ft per box)⌉

Sources: Tile Council of North America (TCNA)

⚠ Estimate only. These calculations are based on industry-standard formulas and typical material specifications. Always verify quantities against product data sheets, manufacturer instructions, and your installer's recommendations before purchasing materials.

How to calculate boxes of tile

Tile is sold by the box, and you need to know either how many tiles per box or how many square feet per box to determine how many boxes to order.

Method 1: Tiles per box

First, calculate the total tiles needed (including waste). Then divide by the number of tiles per box and round up — you can't buy a partial box.

Method 2: Square feet per box

If the packaging lists coverage in square feet per box, multiply your total area by (1 + waste factor) and divide by the square feet per box. Round up.

Why you should always round up

Never round down on tile orders. Running short means a second trip, potential dye-lot differences, and project delays. A spare box is cheap insurance against future damage — and if you keep your receipt, most retailers accept unused full boxes for return.

Frequently asked questions

How many boxes of tile for a 200 sq ft room?

It depends on the tile and box size. For 12×12 tiles with 12 tiles per box and 10% waste, you'd need about 18 boxes (200 sq ft ÷ ~1.02 sq ft per tile = 197 tiles × 1.10 waste = 217 tiles ÷ 12 per box = 19 boxes). Always check your specific product packaging.

Can I return unused boxes of tile?

Most big-box retailers (Home Depot, Lowe's) accept returns of unopened, undamaged tile boxes with a receipt, typically within 90 days. Specialty tile showrooms may have different policies — always ask before buying.

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