Shower Tile Calculator: How Many Tiles You Need
Enter shower wall and floor dimensions plus tile size to get exact tile count, boxes needed, and waste allowance.
Reviewed for accuracy by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer
Shower Tile Calculator: How Many Tiles You Need
Calculator
Adjust values & calculateEnter your values below. Every result is computed in your browser — no data is sent to any server.
Formula: Tiles = Total Area / (Tile Width + Grout) x (Tile Height + Grout)
Additional inputs: Waste Factor (%), Tile Cost ($/sq ft) — optional.
Worked example — 765 tiles needed (3x6 subway) | 92 sq ft total | 77 boxes of 10
Formula
Tiles = Total Area / (Tile Width + Grout) x (Tile Height + Grout)
The calculator computes the total tiling area from shower dimensions (walls and optionally floor), then divides by the area of each tile including its grout joint. A waste factor is applied to account for cuts, breakage, and pattern matching.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Standard 3-Wall Shower with Subway Tiles
Problem:A shower is 5 ft wide, 3 ft deep, 7 ft tall with 3 tiled walls and floor. Using 3x6 inch subway tiles with 3mm grout and 10% waste.
Solution:Wall area: (60 x 84) + 2 x (36 x 84) = 5,040 + 6,048 = 11,088 sq in Floor area: 60 x 36 = 2,160 sq in Total: 13,248 sq in = 92 sq ft Tile + grout: 3.118 x 6.118 = 19.08 sq in/tile Tiles needed: 13,248 / 19.08 = 695 tiles With 10% waste: 695 x 1.10 = 765 tiles
Result:765 tiles needed (3x6 subway) | 92 sq ft total | 77 boxes of 10
Example 2: Large Format Wall Tiles
Problem:A 4 ft x 3 ft shower, 6.5 ft high, 3 walls only (no floor tile). Using 12x24 inch tiles, 3mm grout, 15% waste. Tile cost $8/sq ft.
Solution:Wall area: (48 x 78) + 2 x (36 x 78) = 3,744 + 5,616 = 9,360 sq in = 65 sq ft Tile + grout: 12.118 x 24.118 = 292.31 sq in/tile Tiles needed: 9,360 / 292.31 = 33 tiles With 15% waste: 33 x 1.15 = 38 tiles Cost: 65 x $8 x 1.15 = $598.00
Result:38 tiles needed (12x24) | 65 sq ft | Estimated cost: $598
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my shower for tile?
To accurately measure your shower for tile, start with the three walls. Measure the width (back wall) and depth (side walls) in feet. Measure the height from the shower floor to where you want the tile to end, typically 72 to 96 inches. For each wall, multiply width by height to get the wall's square footage. If your shower has a window, door, or niche, measure those separately and subtract them from the total. For the floor, measure length times width. Always measure in the same units and convert to square feet by dividing square inches by 144. Add 10% to 15% waste factor for cuts, breakage, and pattern matching.
What size tile is best for a shower?
Tile size for showers depends on the area being tiled and the design aesthetic. For shower floors, smaller tiles (1x1 inch or 2x2 inch mosaics) are preferred because they conform better to the slope toward the drain and provide more grout lines for traction. For shower walls, popular sizes include 3x6 inch subway tiles for a classic look, 12x24 inch large format tiles for a modern feel, and 4x4 inch tiles for traditional designs. Larger tiles mean fewer grout lines and easier maintenance, but they require a very flat surface. Smaller tiles are more forgiving on uneven walls and curved surfaces but require more grout maintenance.
How much extra tile should I buy for waste?
The standard recommendation is to buy 10% to 15% extra tile for waste, but this varies based on several factors. A 10% overage is sufficient for straightforward rectangular layouts with standard-sized tiles. Increase to 15% for diagonal or herringbone patterns, which generate more cuts. For natural stone tiles that may have color variations or defects, consider 15% to 20% extra. If your shower has multiple niches, windows, or complex angles, add 15% to 20%. Always buy all your tile from the same lot number to ensure color consistency, and save a few extra tiles for future repairs. Running out of tile mid-project can be costly if the lot is discontinued.
What grout width should I use for shower tile?
Grout joint width depends on the tile size and type. For rectified (precisely cut) tiles, a 1/16 inch (1.5mm) joint gives a modern, minimal look. Standard grout joints are 1/8 inch (3mm) for most wall tiles, which is the most common choice for shower installations. Larger tiles (12 inches and above) typically use 1/8 to 3/16 inch joints. Natural stone tiles need wider joints of 3/16 to 1/4 inch to accommodate size variations. Mosaic sheets come pre-spaced at 1/8 inch. For shower applications, use epoxy grout or high-quality sanded grout with a sealer, as these resist moisture and mold better than unsanded grout, which is only suitable for joints under 1/8 inch.
Do I need to tile the shower ceiling?
Tiling the shower ceiling is not strictly required but offers several advantages, especially in steam showers where it is essential. A tiled ceiling provides superior waterproofing compared to painted surfaces, prevents peeling paint from moisture damage, makes cleaning easier, and gives the shower a polished, finished look. If you choose not to tile the ceiling, use moisture-resistant paint or PVC panels rated for high-humidity environments. For standard showers, moisture-resistant drywall with quality paint is acceptable, but for steam showers or showers used by multiple people daily, tile is the best long-term investment to prevent moisture damage to the structure above.
References
Reviewed for accuracy by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer · Editorial policy
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