About TileCalculator.co.uk

Updated February 2026

TileCalculator.co.uk provides free, accurate online tile calculators designed specifically for UK homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional tradespeople. Our mission is simple: help you work out exactly how many tiles you need before you visit the tile shop, so you order the right quantity first time.

Why We Built This

Every year, thousands of UK homeowners either over-order tiles (wasting money on surplus boxes) or under-order (causing project delays and potential batch-matching problems). The root cause is usually a rough "guesstimate" rather than a proper calculation. Online tile calculators exist, but many use oversimplified formulas that ignore crucial factors like grout gaps, laying patterns, and real-world wastage rates.

We built TileCalculator.co.uk to bridge that gap. Our calculators account for every variable that affects tile quantities in practice — from the grout gap width specified in BS 5385 to the extra wastage created by herringbone and diagonal patterns. The result is a more accurate estimate that helps you order with confidence.

Our Methodology

Every calculator on this site uses the same core formula, adapted for the specific scenario:

1. Area Calculation

We calculate the area to be tiled in square metres. For floors, this is length × width. For walls, it is width × height, minus deductions for windows and doors. For bathrooms, we calculate floor and wall areas separately and combine them. All measurements are in metric (metres and millimetres), matching the system used by UK tile manufacturers and retailers.

2. Tile Coverage

Each tile covers an area equal to its width × height, plus a proportional share of the grout gap. For a 300 × 300mm tile with a 3mm grout gap, the effective coverage per tile is 303 × 303mm = 91,809mm² (0.0918m²). We divide the room area by this effective tile area and round up to the nearest whole tile, because you cannot buy fractional tiles.

3. Wastage Allowance

We add a configurable wastage percentage to account for cuts, breakages, and pattern inefficiencies. Our default wastage values are based on guidelines from the Tile Association (TTA) and real-world experience from professional tilers. The defaults are: 10% for straight-lay patterns, 13% for brick bond, 15% for diagonal lay, and 18% for herringbone.

4. Cost Estimation

Where cost inputs are provided, we estimate material costs by multiplying the tiled area (including wastage) by the price per square metre. Our cost estimator includes adhesive, grout, and preparation materials based on published coverage rates from UK manufacturers (BAL, Mapei, Weber). Labour rates are based on published averages from Checkatrade, MyBuilder, and Rated People, updated for February 2026.

Important Limitations

Our calculators provide estimates intended for planning and budgeting purposes. They are not a substitute for a professional survey or a detailed tile specification. Please note:

  • Calculations assume flat, regular surfaces. Very uneven substrates may require additional adhesive.
  • Cost estimates use average UK prices and may not reflect sale prices, trade discounts, or regional variations.
  • Labour rates are national averages. Rates in London and the South East can be 20–30% higher.
  • For large or complex projects, we recommend getting a professional tiler to visit and provide an itemised quote.
  • We do not sell tiles, adhesive, or tiling services. We are an independent information resource.

UK-Specific Focus

Everything on this site is tailored to the UK market:

  • All measurements are in metric (metres and millimetres), the standard system used by UK tile retailers.
  • Tile sizes listed are those commonly available from UK suppliers (Topps Tiles, Wickes, B&Q, Tile Giant, Porcelain Superstore).
  • Cost estimates are in pounds sterling (£) and reflect UK retail prices.
  • Building standards referenced are UK-specific: BS 5385 (wall and floor tiling) and Building Regulations Approved Document C (moisture protection).
  • Content is written in British English with UK-specific terminology (metres, colour, aluminium, etc.).

How We Stay Current

Tile prices, labour rates, and product availability change over time. We review and update our pricing data at least quarterly, cross-referencing prices from major UK retailers and labour rate data from trade platforms. Content is reviewed for accuracy and updated with current best practices, product recommendations, and regulatory changes. The "Updated" badge on each page shows when it was last reviewed.

Privacy and Advertising

TileCalculator.co.uk is a free service supported by advertising through the Google AdSense programme. We do not collect personal data through our calculators — all calculations are performed in your browser using JavaScript. No measurement data is sent to any server. For full details, please see our Privacy Policy.

Contact Us

We welcome feedback, corrections, and suggestions. If you spot an error in our calculations or have a question about tiling, please visit our Contact page.

Disclaimer

TileCalculator.co.uk provides information for general guidance purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that our calculations, cost estimates, or advice are error-free or suitable for every situation. Always verify quantities and costs with your tile supplier or professional tiler before placing an order. We accept no liability for any losses arising from the use of our calculators or content.