How much extra backsplash should I order?

Author: Verna Murphy  |  Last update: Friday, June 19, 2026

Now because we always recommend ordering overage, we suggest ordering at least 15% extra. 15% of 8 square feet is 1.2, so you should round up and order at least 10 square feet of tile total. That's it!

How much extra backsplash to order?

However, as most tile installers will tell you, it is always best to buy 10% to 15% additional tile for any project as a general rule of thumb. This is because when taking on a tile project, there are numerous reasons why you will need that extra stock of tiles ready to go.

How much extra tile should you order?

Waste Factor will vary based upon tile size, layout, configuration of room, patterns, etc. Typical waste factor is about 10%. Add 15% for tile being installed diagonally or for a room with lots of jogs and corners. These installations will require more cuts and thus more waste.

How do I calculate how much backsplash I need?

Using the calculator, multiply the height by the length of your backsplash, and then divide the result by 144. If you have a window or any other obstacle intersecting your backsplash area, you will need to subtract this area from the total square footage area you want to tile.

Do I really need 10% extra tile?

Typically, it's advised to add 10% more tiles to your order, but in rooms with complex shapes like bathrooms with hidden boxes or shower alcoves, it's better to allow for 15% wastage.

HOW TO: Calculating Kitchen Backsplash Tile! (EASY MATH FOR BEGINNERS!)

How much extra tile should I buy on Reddit?

A big floor I would estimate 5% waste. If you are using large format tiles or a pattern add another 5.

How much to add for wastage?

Most everything you estimate requires a waste factor. Adding waste factors helps make sure customers have enough material to complete a job. A waste factor is a percentage of material over the actual estimated, raw quantity. Most applications required a 5% waste factor – but check product recommendations to be sure.

How much do contractors charge for backsplash?

The average backsplash installation cost is $1,000, with prices ranging from $480 to $1,500, based on 35 square feet of backsplash. You could pay as much as $4,500 for a high-end material like a marble backsplash or as little as $300 for more affordable materials like brick.

Does a backsplash add value?

A backsplash can pull a whole kitchen design together, elevating any kitchen design for a reasonable cost. This upscale look can result in value added to your home. However, choosing a polarizing backsplash can alienate potential buyers, and hurt your home's resale value.

What is the best size for a backsplash?

Standard Dimensions for Kitchen Backsplash Tiles

When it comes to kitchen backsplash tiles, you have a wide range of options. The most common tile sizes include: 3”x 6”: This classic rectangular format is popular for subway tile installations. 4” x 4”: A versatile square tile that works well in various kitchen styles.

Why order extra tiles?

We always suggest ordering at least 15-20% extra, an amount that is meant to cover loss of material during cutting and possible job site jostling. Most often when a unique, handmade tile cut has been made, the remaining piece of tile cannot be used anywhere else, resulting in fewer tiles than expected.

How to calculate how much tile to order?

Multiply the length and width of the space you want covered — like from the counter to the cabinets in a kitchen — by 12 to get each measurement in inches. Multiply these two numbers together to get your area, then divide that number by the area of the tile to get the number you will need.

What size tile is trending?

Sizes like 18x18, 24x24, or 12x24, such as our Blue Gem Matte Porcelain Tile 12X24, are popular choices that maximize a room's flow and aesthetic coherence but minimize visual interruption. Often, homeowners trying to create a contemporary and minimalist look select extra-large tiles in sizes such as 36x36.

How much extra tile should I get?

We suggest that you order 15% extra for field tile orders (such as subway tile) and 20% overage for projects that include patterns like herringbone or parquet or any of our specialty shapes. A specialty shape or a pattern, like herringbone, will require far more cuts than a stacked or offset pattern.

Why is backsplash so expensive?

Why is backsplash so expensive? The cost is influenced by the material, design complexity, and labor. Custom designs and high-end materials can drive up the price.

What adds the most value to a kitchen?

6 Areas Of A Kitchen That Add The Most Resale Value
  • Open floor plans. An open floor plan kitchen is a top priority if you want to boost resale price and prospects. ...
  • Kitchen islands and counter space. Counter space is critical in a kitchen. ...
  • Kitchen cabinets. ...
  • Pantries. ...
  • Updated walls and flooring. ...
  • Modern appliances.

Where should you not put backsplash?

Run your kitchen backsplash between upper and lower cabinets. The backsplash connects the two sets of cabinets, which helps the room feel bigger and more cohesive. Do not put a backsplash behind your fridge unless you can clearly see that wall.

How much backsplash should I order?

To calculate the square footage of backsplash tile you are going to need, you're essentially just figuring out the total area of the soon-to-be tiled space. Basically, all you need to do is divide the space up into squares and rectangles, multiply the width by height of each subsection, and add those sections together.

How much does Home Depot charge to install a backsplash?

How much do Lowe's and Home Depot charge to install a backsplash? Home Depot charges $800 to install a 25-square-foot backsplash, including tile and setting materials.

What is the most cost effective backsplash?

Ceramic tile, one of the most popular options, is also one of the cheapest. It's so widely available and comes in so many different styles, colors and textures that you'll likely have no trouble finding the option that's right for your kitchen design and budget.

How much extra tile to order for waste?

In general, to calculate how many tiles should you order for your flooring, you need to measure the exact surface area and add a 10% waste factor.

How do you calculate wastage value?

The wastage percentage is then calculated by dividing the lost weight by the initial weight and multiplying by 100.

How much should I allow for wastage?

10% wastage is about the industry standard to work on when allowing for wastage.

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