Everything You Need to Know Before Ordering Tile for Your Project
How to Prepare for Ordering Tile for Your Next Project
Whether you're updating your kitchen backsplash, refreshing your bathroom floor, or reimagining your entire space, tile is a versatile and timeless option. But before you jump into your next renovation, it’s crucial to properly prepare for ordering tile. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your project runs smoothly and your finished space looks exactly how you imagined.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you confidently order the right amount of tile and gather all the necessary supplies.
1. Measure Your Space Accurately
The first and most important step in any tiling project is knowing how much tile you'll need.
For Walls or Floors:
Step 1: Measure the length and width of the area you plan to tile.
Step 2: Multiply the length by the width to get the square footage.
Example: If your bathroom floor is 8 feet long by 6 feet wide, you’ll need tile for 48 square feet.
Step 3: Add 10–15% extra to cover cuts, waste, and potential future repairs.
For complex layouts or diagonal patterns, go with 15%.
📝 Pro Tip: If you're tiling multiple areas or unusual shapes, sketch out the space and break it into rectangles to measure each section separately.
2. Choose the Right Tile for the Job
Not all tile is created equal, and certain types are better suited for specific areas.
Porcelain – Extremely durable and water-resistant. Great for floors and high-moisture areas.
Ceramic – Ideal for walls
Natural Stone – Beautiful and unique, but may require sealing and more maintenance.
Glass – Popular for backsplashes and accents
Also consider the finish—matte for a softer, more slip-resistant surface, or glossy for a sleek, reflective look.
3. Gather the Right Supplies
Once you've selected your tile and measured your space, make sure you have all the tools and materials to get started.
Basic Tiling Supplies:
Tile adhesive (thinset mortar) – Choose the right one for your tile type and surface.
Trowel – For spreading adhesive.
Tile spacers – To ensure even gaps between tiles.
Tile cutter or wet saw – For precise cuts.
Grout – Select a color that complements your tile.
Grout float – For applying grout.
Sponge and bucket – For cleaning excess grout.
Level and measuring tape – To keep your layout straight and accurate.
Kneepads and gloves – Save your knees and hands!
Optional:
Sealer – For natural stone or porous tile.
Backer board – For added moisture resistance behind tile (especially in bathrooms).
Foam board or sheet membrane systems – These lightweight, waterproof panels are ideal for shower walls and floors. They create a vapor-tight barrier and are easier to work with than traditional cement board.
Liquid waterproofing membrane – A paint-on solution that forms a flexible, seamless waterproof barrier over surfaces like cement board or drywall. Great for niches, benches, and complex shapes in wet areas.
4. Plan Your Layout
Before installing anything, lay out your tile dry on the floor or wall to visualize how it will look. This helps identify where cuts are needed and allows you to adjust the pattern to avoid awkward slivers of tile at the edges.
5. Check Lead Times and Order Early
Some specialty or imported tiles may take several weeks to arrive. Always check availability and order early to avoid delays in your project timeline. And don’t forget—ordering that extra 10–15% upfront saves the headache of trying to match dye lots later if you run short.
Final Thoughts
Tiling projects can be DIY-friendly or professionally installed, but in either case, being well-prepared makes a huge difference. By measuring correctly, choosing the right tile, and having all your tools on hand, you’ll set yourself up for success.
Happy tiling!
