Backsplash Tile Calculator
A backsplash is a rectangle of wall between the countertop and the upper cabinets, so the tile you need is width times height, less any large cutout like a window, plus a waste allowance for cuts around outlets and edges. Enter the backsplash width and height in inches and the area of any cutout to remove, plus a waste percentage. This calculator returns the net tile area in square feet, the area to order with waste, and the total square inches, ready for ordering by the box.
Backsplash tile formula
Gross area (sq in) = width * height
Net area (sq in) = gross area - cutout area
Net area (sq ft) = net area (sq in) / 144
Area to order = net area (sq ft) * (1 + waste / 100)
Width times height gives the wall rectangle. Subtract large cutouts, divide by 144 for square feet, then add waste for cuts around outlets and edges.
Backsplash tiling tips
- A standard backsplash is often about 18 inches tall; full-height runs the whole wall.
- Subtract windows but leave outlets in, covered by the waste allowance.
- Diagonal, mosaic, or patterned layouts need a higher waste percentage.
- There are 144 square inches in a square foot.
- ANSI A108 and TCNA standards govern tile installation in the US.
Backsplash tile: frequently asked questions
How do I calculate backsplash tile area?
Multiply the backsplash width by its height in inches, subtract any cutout area such as a window, then divide by 144 to get square feet. Add a waste allowance for cuts around outlets, edges, and breakage.
What is a typical backsplash height?
A standard kitchen backsplash between countertop and upper cabinets is often about 18 inches tall, but full-height backsplashes can run the entire wall. Enter your actual height in inches; this calculator does not assume a value.
How much waste should I allow for backsplash tile?
A 10% allowance covers cuts around outlets and edges and the occasional broken tile. Diagonal layouts, mosaics, or patterned tile need more, often 15% or higher. This calculator lets you set the percentage.
Should I subtract outlets and windows?
Subtract large cutouts like a window, since you will not tile that area. Small electrical outlets are usually left in the area and covered by the waste allowance, because you still cut tile around them rather than removing whole tiles.
Why convert to square feet?
Tile is sold and priced by the square foot or by the box covering a stated square footage. Measuring in inches and dividing the product by 144 converts square inches to square feet for ordering.
Official sources
- American National Standards Institute: ANSI A108 ceramic tile installation standards.
- U.S. General Services Administration: Design and construction standards.
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 16 June 2026. See our methodology.