Backsplash Tile Calculator

Tiles or mosaic sheets for a kitchen backsplash, with openings subtracted and 10 percent waste included. For sheet-mounted mosaic, enter the sheet size as the piece size.

Grout guidance: small-format tile and mosaic with roughly 3 mm joints typically use about 0.5 to 1.5 kg of grout per m², depending on tile size, thickness, and joint width. Treat this as rough guidance and check the coverage table on your grout bag.

Worked example

A 3 m by 0.6 m backsplash is 1.8 m². Subtracting 0.2 m² of openings leaves 1.6 m². With 10 by 20 cm tiles at 0.02 m² each: 1.6 × 1.10 ÷ 0.02 = 88 tiles.

How it works

Net area = wall length × wall height, minus openings. Pieces = net area × 1.10 for waste, divided by the area of one tile or sheet, rounded up. Outlet and switch cutouts are normally tiled around rather than subtracted; subtract only large openings such as windows and range hood gaps.

FAQ

How do I count mosaic on mesh sheets?
Choose mosaic sheets and enter the full sheet dimensions, commonly about 30 by 30 cm. The count is then in sheets, and the same 10 percent waste applies for cuts at edges and around outlets.

Is 10 percent waste enough for a herringbone or diagonal layout?
Often not. Angled patterns can need 15 to 20 percent. This calculator uses the standard 10 percent for straight layouts, so add a few extra pieces for patterned work.

Estimates only. Mississippi Maple provides approximate material estimates for planning. Verify quantities with your tile supplier before purchasing, and keep spare tiles from the same dye lot for future repairs.