Backsplash Calculator
Calculate how many tiles you need for your kitchen or bathroom backsplash. Enter dimensions, tile size, and get square footage, tile count with 10% waste, and total material costs.
ft
in
Square Footage
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Tiles Needed (with 10% waste) —
Sq Ft to Order —
Extended More scenarios, charts & detailed breakdown ▾
Square Feet
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Tiles Needed —
Professional Full parameters & maximum detail ▾
$
$
Materials
Total Area —
Total Tiles —
Edge Trim Pieces —
Grout Coverage —
Cost
Total Material Cost —
Total Project Cost (w/ Labor) —
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your backsplash width in feet and height in inches (default 18 in).
- Select your tile size.
- Results show square footage and tiles needed with 10% waste allowance.
- Use With Cutouts to subtract outlet boxes and windows.
- Use Cost Estimate to price tile, adhesive, and grout.
- Use Professional for up to 3 walls with labor cost included.
Formula
Sq Ft = Width (ft) × Height (ft)
Tiles needed = Ceiling(Sq Ft × 1.10 / Tile area)
Example
Example: 10 ft wide × 18 in tall = 10 × 1.5 = 15 sq ft. With 10% waste = 16.5 sq ft. Using 4×4 tiles (0.111 sq ft each) = 149 tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Multiply the width (ft) × height (ft) to get square footage, then add 10% for waste and cuts. Divide by the tile area to get the number of tiles needed.
- The standard kitchen backsplash height is 18 inches, filling the space between the countertop and upper cabinets. Some designs run floor-to-ceiling or cover the full wall.
- Tile cuts, breakage, and pattern alignment waste material. 10% is standard for simple layouts. Add 15% for diagonal patterns or natural stone.
- Materials typically cost $5–$30 per sq ft. Labor adds $8–$15 per sq ft. A 15 sq ft backsplash runs $200–$700 for materials, plus $120–$225 for labor.
- Use mastic adhesive for wall tiles in dry areas or modified thinset for wet areas and heavy tiles. Budget $1–$2 per sq ft for adhesive and $1 per sq ft for grout.