Friday, August 6, 2010

Calculate Tile For Bathrooms

You can install tile on nearly every surface in the bathroom.


The first step in any successful bathroom tile installation is taking proper measurements. Measurements can help you establish the correct amount of tile for the pattern you are planning, determine the placement of a border or decorative tiles and order the right amount of tile for the job. When calculating tile for the bathroom, remember to include tile you will install beneath vanities or sinks and inside linen closets, areas frequently overlooked.


Instructions








1. Calculate tile for a bathroom floor by dividing the room into square or rectangular sections. Measure the length and width of each section in inches. Multiply these measurements together to get the total number of square inches needed for each area of bathroom floor. Divide each total measurement by 144 to calculate the square feet. Add together each area for the total amount of tile needed for the floor. Add 5 percent for waste if you're using a regular floor pattern; 20 percent for diagonal or intricate patterns.


2. Calculate the wall tile by measuring each wall's height and length in inches. Multiply the two figures and divide by 144 to calculate square feet. Add 5 percent to account for waste when using standard patterns and 20 percent for diagonal or intricate patterns. Locate any area that requires finish edge tiles and measure it in inches. Divide this measurement by 12 to determine the total number of linear feet of edge tiles required.


3. Measure the length and width of the shower floor area in inches. Multiply the two measurements, then divide the result by 144 to determine the square footage. Add 1 additional square foot to this area for waste.








4. Measure each shower wall separately. Measure the height and width in inches, then multiply the two numbers and divide the result by 144 as before. Add 5 percent to 20 percent for waste as before, depending on the tiling pattern. Measure for any edge tiles necessary, such as on the outside corners or edges of the shower or at the top row of tile. Take the measurement in inches, then divide by 12 to get the total linear feet of edge tiles needed.


5. Measure for border tiles in inches, divide by 12 to determine linear feet and add 1 foot for waste. Add at least one extra decorative tile to any desired amount in case of breakage.

Tags: edge tiles, amount tile, inches Multiply, linear feet, bathroom floor, calculate square, calculate square feet