Buying the right number of tiles is simpler than it looks. Measure once, add a sensible bit extra, and you will avoid both frustrating shortfalls and wasted boxes.
Quick answer
Multiply the width by the length of your area in metres to get the square metres, then add 10 percent for a standard layout, or more for diagonal and herringbone. That total is how much to order.
Measure the area you want to tile
Getting your measurements right is the whole job. Work in metres and take it one area at a time.
Measure width and length
For a floor, measure the width and length of the room. For a wall, measure its width and its height.
Multiply for square metres
A floor that is 2.4 metres wide and 3 metres long is 2.4 multiplied by 3, which is 7.2 square metres.
Split awkward shapes
If the space is an unusual shape, divide it into rectangles, work each one out separately and add the results together.
Add a wastage allowance
Always order a little more than the bare area, because some tiles will be cut to fit at the edges and corners, and the occasional tile may break.
- Add 10 percent for a standard straight layout.
- Add 15 percent for a diagonal or patterned layout.
- Add up to 20 percent for herringbone or more complex designs.
For our 7.2 square metre floor with a 10 percent allowance, you would order 7.2 multiplied by 1.10, which is about 7.92 square metres.
Work out how many boxes to order
Tiles are usually sold by the box, and each box covers a set number of square metres. To find the number of boxes, divide the total square metres you need, including wastage, by the coverage per box, then round up to the next whole box. The coverage per box is shown on every product page.
A few tips before you order
- Order everything in one go from the same batch, so the colour and shade match across the whole job.
- Keep a spare box aside for any future repairs.
- Check the tile suits your surface, whether a wall, a floor or a wet area, on the product page.
- Order free samples first to see the colour and finish in your own light.
Frequently asked questions
How much extra should I order for wastage?
Add 10 percent for a standard straight layout, 15 percent for a diagonal or patterned layout, and up to 20 percent for herringbone or complex designs. This covers cuts at the edges and the occasional breakage.
Should I order tiles from the same batch?
Yes. Tiles can vary slightly in shade from one production batch to the next, so ordering enough in one go from the same batch keeps the colour consistent across your project.
How do I work out boxes from square metres?
Divide the total square metres you need, including wastage, by the coverage per box shown on the product page, then round up to the next whole box.
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