Planning a home renovation or tile installation? Accurately measuring the square footage of your space is essential to determine how much material you’ll need.
Whether you're tiling a bathroom floor or revamping a kitchen backsplash, getting the measurements right helps you avoid costly mistakes. Here’s a simple guide to ensure you’re well-prepared for your project.
What You'll Need:
A tape measure or laser distance measurer
Calculator or smartphone
Pen and paper (or notes app) to record your measurements
Step 1: Break the Room into Rectangles
Most rooms aren’t perfect squares or rectangles, so dividing your space into smaller sections makes it easier to measure. Think of each section as its own rectangle, even if it’s an alcove or corner.
Step 2: Measure the Length and Width
For each section of the room:
Measure the length in feet.
Measure the width in feet.
Write down these measurements for every section you’re tiling.
Step 3: Calculate the Square Footage of Each Section
Use the following formula:
Length (ft) × Width (ft) = Square Footage
Example: If one section of the room is 12 feet long and 10 feet wide:
12 ft × 10 ft = 120 sq ft
Step 4: Add the Total Square Footage
Once you've measured all sections, add them together to get the total square footage.
Example:
Section 1: 120 sq ft
Section 2: 60 sq ft
Section 3: 45 sq ft
Total Square Footage = 120 + 60 + 45 = 225 sq ft
Step 5: Account for Extra Material
Most tile installers recommend ordering extra material to account for cuts, waste, or mistakes. Here’s a general guide:
10% extra for simple layouts
15% extra for diagonal patterns or intricate designs
So, if your total is 225 sq ft, add 10% for waste:225 × 1.10 = 247.5 sq ft
Step 6: Subtract Space Taken by Fixtures
If there are permanent fixtures (like a bathtub or kitchen island) that won’t be tiled, measure their footprint and subtract it from the total.
Example:
Bathtub: 5 ft × 3 ft = 15 sq ft
Total room square footage: 247.5 sq ft
247.5 - 15 = 232.5 sq ft
Step 7: Double-Check Your Measurements
Accuracy is key—measure twice to be sure everything adds up. Incorrect measurements can lead to ordering too little or too much material, so double-checking helps prevent delays and extra costs.
Always check with your tile installer on how much extra material to order based on your layout. If you need any help with measurements or advice, our friendly staff at The Tile House is always ready to assist. Stop by with your numbers, and we’ll guide you through selecting the perfect tiles for your project.
📍 Pickering Store: 1095 Kingston Rd, Unit 3
📍 Whitby Store: 1400 Victoria St E, Unit 3
We look forward to helping you make every square foot of your project a success!
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