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Tape & Tally

Guide

Tile Waste: How Much Extra Should You Buy?

The waste percentage that keeps you from a second store trip — or a mismatched dye lot.

Updated September 2026

Waste by layout

Waste covers cuts, breakage and mistakes. How much you need depends mostly on the layout:

  • 10% — standard straight (grid) lay.
  • 15% — diagonal layouts, large-format tile, or rooms with lots of corners and cuts.
  • 20% — herringbone and other complex patterns.
Try it Tile Calculator → Work out how many tiles and boxes you need for a floor or wall, with a waste allowance and a rough cost.

Why large-format needs more

Big tiles (18 inches and up) can't be salvaged when a cut goes wrong, and they crack more easily on the saw. Order 15% waste for large-format even on a straight lay.

Always keep a spare box

Buy at least one box beyond the calculated number and keep it. Dye lots change between production runs, so matching a cracked tile years later from a fresh box is nearly impossible. A stored spare is cheap insurance.

FAQ

Is 10% enough tile for waste?

For a standard straight lay, yes. Go to 15% for diagonal or large-format, and 20% for herringbone.

How many tiles are in a box?

Boxes are sold by coverage, not count — a 12x12 box is usually about 15 sq ft. Our calculator uses realistic box coverage per size.

Related calculators

Tile Calculator Work out how many tiles and boxes you need for a floor or wall, with a waste allowance and a rough cost. Flooring Calculator Find how many boxes of laminate, vinyl plank or hardwood you need for a room, with a waste allowance and rough cost. Paver Patio Calculator Count pavers plus the gravel base and bedding sand for a patio or walkway, with waste and a rough cost.