Backsplash Tile Calculator
Calculate tiles needed for a kitchen or bathroom backsplash. Enter wall width, height, and tile size to get piece count, boxes, and cost estimate.
Subway Tile Calculator
Calculate subway tiles needed for backsplashes and walls. Enter area and tile size to get exact piece count, box quantity, and cost estimate.
sq ft
%
$
Tile Size⧉
3" × 6" (Classic)
0.125 sq ft/tile
Tiles per Sq Ft⧉
8
3" × 6"
Waste Factor⧉
5.0%
Running Bond pattern
Coverage with Waste⧉
31.5 sq ft
From base 30 sq ft
Tiles Needed⧉
252
8/sf × 31.5 sf
Boxes⧉
4
80 tiles/box
Tile Cost⧉
$94.50
@ $3/sq ft
Grout Needed⧉
1 lb
Approximate
Grout Cost⧉
$1.00
@ $0.15/lb
Total Project Cost⧉
$95.50
Tiles + grout
Cost per Sq Ft⧉
$3.18
Installed material
Est. Labor (30%)⧉
$28.35
Typical markup
Installation Details
| Item | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tile Dimensions | 3" × 6" | 3" × 6" (Classic) |
| Layout Pattern | Running Bond | 5% waste |
| Grout Joint | 1/8 | 0.125" spacing |
| Thinset Type | Polymer | For wall tile |
| Grout Color | Custom Mix | Choose to match |
Tile Quantity Breakdown
Base 30 sf
Waste 5%
Total tiles: 252 (4 boxes @ 80 tiles/box)
Cost Breakdown
Tiles 99%
Grout 1%
Planning notes, formulas, and examples
About the Subway Tile Calculator
Subway tiles are rectangular tiles traditionally sized 3”×6”, inspired by the tiles used in New York City subway stations in the early 1900s. Today, subway tiles are among the most popular choices for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom walls, and shower surrounds thanks to their timeless, clean look.
This subway tile calculator determines how many individual tiles you need based on the wall area and tile dimensions. Modern subway tiles come in many sizes beyond the classic 3”×6”, including 2”×4”, 4”×8”, 4”×12”, and 4”×16”. The staggered brick-pattern layout adds cutting waste at the edges, which this calculator accounts for.
Because subway tiles are small, you'll need many pieces per square foot. The calculator converts the total count to the number of boxes to purchase, making your shopping list straightforward.
When This Page Helps
Subway tiles are small, so even a modest 30 sq ft backsplash can require 240+ tiles. Counting individual tiles is error-prone. This calculator handles the math quickly and adds waste for the staggered layout cuts.
How to Use the Inputs
- Measure the wall area to be tiled in square feet.
- Enter the subway tile width (short side) and length (long side) in inches.
- Set the waste factor (10% for brick pattern, 15% for herringbone).
- Enter tiles per box from the product label.
- Review the tile count and boxes needed.
Formula used
Tile Area = (Width × Length) / 144
Tiles = ⌈(Area × (1 + Waste%/100)) / Tile Area⌉
Boxes = ⌈Tiles / Tiles per Box⌉Example Calculation
Result: 264 tiles (4 boxes)
Each 3”×6” tile covers 0.125 sq ft. With 10% waste: 30 × 1.10 = 33 sq ft. Tiles = ⌈33 / 0.125⌉ = 264 tiles. At 80 tiles per box: ⌈264 / 80⌉ = 4 boxes.
Tips & Best Practices
- Classic subway is 3”×6” in glossy white — timeless and affordable.
- Brick-pattern offset is typically 50% (half-bond) or 33% (one-third).
- Beveled subway tiles add depth and shadow lines for a more upscale look.
- Use contrasting grout (gray or black grout with white tile) to highlight the pattern.
- Handmade subway tiles have a slightly irregular surface that adds character.
- Herringbone subway tile layouts use 15–20% more material than brick pattern.
The Timeless Subway Tile Appeal
Subway tiles have been a design staple for over 100 years. Their simple rectangular shape and clean lines complement virtually any decor style, from traditional to contemporary. White subway tile remains the #1 choice for kitchen backsplashes in the United States.
Size Variations
Traditional: 3”×6”. Modern: 4”×8” or 4”×12”. Small format: 2”×4” or 2”×6” for detailed designs. Large: 4”×16” for a contemporary elongated look. The 2:1 length-to-width ratio is the defining characteristic.
Layout Patterns
Running bond (brick offset) is the classic. Stack bond creates a modern grid. Herringbone (V-pattern) is dramatic. Vertical stack bond makes ceilings look taller. Cross hatch alternates horizontal and vertical rows.
Material Options
Ceramic is the most affordable and available. Glass subway tiles catch and reflect light beautifully. Natural stone (marble) subway tiles add luxury. Metal (stainless or copper) subway tiles create industrial accents. Porcelain subway tiles are denser and more water-resistant.
Sources & Methodology
Last updated:
Frequently Asked Questions
Each 3”×6” tile covers 0.125 sq ft (18 sq in). You need 8 tiles per square foot, not counting grout lines. With 1/16” grout joints, it's closer to 7.8 tiles per sq ft.
The classic 3”×6” remains the most popular. The 4”×8” size has gained popularity in recent years for a more modern, slightly larger look with fewer grout lines.
Running bond (brick pattern with 50% offset) is the classic. Stack bond (no offset) is modern. Herringbone is dramatic. One-third offset is a popular variation. Running bond is easiest to install.
Most subway tile looks best with 1/16” to 1/8” grout lines. Smaller grout lines give a cleaner, more modern look. Larger 3/16” joints create a more traditional appearance.
Basic white ceramic subway tile costs $0.15–$0.50 per tile ($1–$4/sq ft). Glass subway tile runs $5–$15/sq ft. Handmade or artisan subway tile can cost $15–$30/sq ft.
It's not ideal for floors. Most subway tiles are wall-rated (less durable). The small size creates many grout lines. For floors, use 12”×24” plank tiles that mimic the subway aesthetic.
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