BuildRuler

Build & DIY estimates

How many boxes of tile do I need?

Quick answer: A 100 sq ft floor needs 7 boxes of 12×24 in tile packed 8 per box (16 sq ft per box), with 10% extra for cuts. The formula: boxes = (area × 1.10) ÷ sq ft per box, rounded up. Use 10% extra for straight layouts and 15% or more for diagonal, herringbone or rooms with lots of cuts. The square footage per box is printed on the carton.

  • Manufacturer bag yields · published coverage rates
  • Updated
  • Reviewed by Alex · How we calculate

A 100 sq ft floor needs 7 boxes of 12×24 in tile packed 8 per box (16 sq ft per box), with 10% extra for cuts. The formula: boxes = (area × 1.10) ÷ sq ft per box, rounded up. Use 10% extra for straight layouts and 15% or more for diagonal, herringbone or rooms with lots of cuts. The square footage per box is printed on the carton.

Tiles needed for 100 sq ft

Tile sizeSq ft per tileTiles (10% waste)Tiles (15% waste)
12×12 in1.00110115
12×24 in2.005558
24×24 in4.002829
6×24 in1.00110115
3×6 in0.12880920

Worked example

A 10×12 ft bathroom floor is 120 sq ft. With 10% waste you need tile for 132 sq ft. If the carton says 15.5 sq ft per box, that is 132 ÷ 15.5 = 8.5, so buy 9 boxes. With 12×24 tiles (2 sq ft each) the same floor takes 66 tiles; at 8 tiles per box, 66 ÷ 8 = 8.25, again 9 boxes. Box coverage varies by product, so always use the number printed on yours.

Buy a little more than you need

Keep at least a few spare tiles for future repairs. Tiles are made in batches, and color can vary between production lots (shade or lot numbers are printed on cartons), so buy all your boxes at once from the same lot. Many stores accept returns of unopened boxes; check the policy before you buy extra.

Walls and showers

For walls, measure each wall’s width × height and subtract large openings like windows and the tub, then add waste. Shower niches, edges and outside corners need trim pieces or bullnose that are usually sold separately, by the piece or linear foot.

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Frequently asked questions

How many boxes of tile do I need for 100 sq ft?

110 ÷ the box coverage. With 15.5 sq ft boxes, 8 boxes (7.1 rounded up).

How much extra tile should I buy?

10% for straight layouts; 15% or more for diagonal or herringbone patterns.

How many 12×24 tiles for 100 sq ft?

55 tiles with 10% waste.

How many 12×12 tiles for 100 sq ft?

110 tiles with 10% waste.