How the backsplash tile calculator works
Enter the width and height of your backsplash, choose a tile and a grout width, and the calculator gives you the number of tiles to buy, including waste. It also tells you where to start the layout, so the tiles at both ends of the wall are cut to the same size and you do not finish with a thin sliver.
The tile count is based on the area of each tile plus its grout joint, so it is more accurate than dividing the wall area by the tile area.
How much extra tile should you buy?
Always order more than the wall area, because tiles are cut, chipped and sometimes have defects. The extra depends on the layout.
| Layout | Extra | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Straight stack (grid) | 10% | The simplest layout, with the fewest cuts |
| Offset or brick | 12% | The classic subway tile pattern |
| Diagonal | 15% | Every tile along the edges is cut at an angle |
| Herringbone | 20% | Lots of angled cuts, and the most waste |
Buy all the tile in one go, and from the same batch. The colour can vary between production runs, even in plain white tile.
Popular backsplash tile sizes
- 3 × 6 in subway is the classic. It works with a brick pattern or stacked.
- 4 × 4 in is a simple, traditional square.
- 2 × 8 in and 3 × 12 in are long, slim tiles that give a modern look.
- 4 × 12 in is a large subway tile with fewer grout lines.
- 6 × 6 in is good for bold, patterned tile.
How high should a backsplash be?
The standard height is 18 in, from the counter to the bottom of the wall cabinets. If there are no cabinets, many people tile to 24 in or 36 in, and some tile all the way to the ceiling behind the cooktop, for a bold look and easier cleaning.
Where to start the layout
Do not start tiling in the corner. Walls are rarely square, and you could finish with a thin sliver of tile at the other end. Instead, find the centre of the wall (or the centre of the cooktop) and work out from there, so that both ends have a cut tile of the same size.
The calculator tests two starting points, with a tile centred on the middle of the wall, or a grout joint centred on the middle. It recommends the one with the biggest cuts at the ends. A cut tile should be at least about half a tile wide, or at least 1.5 in.
Put any cut row at the top, under the cabinets, where it is hidden. The full rows go along the counter, where everyone looks.
Worked examples
A 10 ft run, 18 in high, 3 × 6 in subway tile in a brick pattern
With a 1/8 in grout joint and 12% extra, you need 127 tiles. Start with a grout joint on the centre line. This gives 18 full tiles across and a cut tile about 4 3/4 in wide at each end, and 5 full rows with a cut row about 2 1/4 in high at the top.
A 10 ft run, 18 in high, 4 × 4 in tile stacked
You need 140 tiles. Start with a tile on the centre line, and 29 full tiles fit across with no end cuts at all.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring the grout joints. They add up, and change both the count and the layout.
- Not subtracting the windows. A window between the cabinets reduces the area you need to tile. Enter its area in the calculator.
- Starting at one end. It can leave a thin cut at the other end, which is hard to cut and looks odd.
- Ordering exactly the area. Cuts, breakage and mistakes mean you need extra, and the same batch may not be available later.
- Forgetting outlets. Plan the layout so that outlets fall on a tile or a joint where they are easiest to cut around.
Tips for a better backsplash
- Dry-lay a few rows on the counter to check the pattern before you use any adhesive.
- Use tile spacers, or a straight edge, to keep the joints even.
- Fit the outlet covers with box extenders, so they sit flush with the new tile surface.
- Seal natural stone, such as marble, before grouting and again once a year.
- Choose a grout colour carefully. A matching colour looks calm, and a contrast colour shows off the pattern.
