3×6 Subway Tile Calculator
Pre-set for 3×6 in subway tiles. Enter your backsplash or wall dimensions. For a kitchen backsplash, measure height × width of the area to be tiled.
Wall / Backsplash Dimensions
Box Info
Quick Reference: Subway Tile Counts by Area
| Area | Sq Ft | Tiles (10% waste) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 ft × 4 ft (small backsplash) | 8 | 71 |
| 2 ft × 8 ft (standard backsplash) | 16 | 141 |
| 2 ft × 12 ft | 24 | 212 |
| 4 ft × 8 ft (bathroom wall) | 32 | 282 |
| 8 ft × 8 ft (full wall) | 64 | 565 |
3×6 in = 0.125 sq ft per tile (8 tiles per sq ft). Counts rounded up with 10% waste.
Other Tile Sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
A 3×6 in subway tile covers 0.125 sq ft (0.25 ft × 0.5 ft). You need 8 tiles per square foot before waste. For 20 sq ft of backsplash with 10% waste: ⌈20 / 0.125 × 1.10⌉ = 176 tiles.
Typically 44–100 tiles per box covering 11–25 sq ft. The exact coverage is always on the box label. Some suppliers sell by the square foot rather than by the box — enter the sq ft/box that applies to your purchase.
Use 10% for a standard kitchen backsplash with a running-bond (brick) pattern. Add 5% (total 15%) if the area has many outlets, windows, or other cut lines. Use 15–20% if you want to minimise shopping trips for a future repair match.
Traditional subway tile uses a 1/16 in (1.5 mm) to 1/8 in (3 mm) joint for a tight, classic look. Wider joints (3/16 to 1/4 in) give a more handmade or farmhouse appearance. Your choice affects grout quantity significantly — adjust the joint width in the main tile calculator for a more precise grout estimate.
For a standard drywalled backsplash, a white premium mastic or white polymer-modified thin-set is commonly used. For areas behind a stove or range, use heat-resistant thin-set mortar rated for that application. Verify with your adhesive manufacturer for your specific substrate and location.